Yokohama Tire Corporation’s dB Super E-spec™, a ‘Green’ Tire Infused with Orange Oil, Tests Impressively at Tire Rack’s ‘Real World Road Ride’
Yokohama Tire Corporation’s eco-friendly dB Super E-spec™ tire, which is composed of 80 percent non-petroleum-based products, accumulated high test scores when compared to low rolling resistance competitors during Tire Rack’s recent Real World Road Ride.
“The Tire Rack test shows that the dB Super E-spec, which introduces new technology in tire materials and design, is noticeably better on all-around performance,” said Mark Chung, YTC director, corporate strategy and planning. “Compared to standard tires on a Prius, both the fuel efficiency and handling are improved, and compared with other conventional tires that offer enhanced fuel efficiency, the dB Super E-Spec excels in driving performance. As the only manufacturer reducing petroleum by infusing orange oil into the tires, the dB Super E-spec stands above the competition.”
Seven 185/65R15-sized OE and aftermarket tires with low rolling
resistance capabilities were compared during more than 550 miles of
real-world driving in a Toyota Prius on expressways, state highways and
public roads. The dB Super E-spec was top-rated in handling, according
to Tire Rack, which stated: “…the personality and drivability of the
Prius can be affected by what tire is installed. The firm ride of the
dB Super E-spec paid back with a quick, athletic feel as it responded
crisply to driver inputs.”
The eco-focused dB Super E-spec mixes sustainable orange oil and natural
rubber making it 80 percent petroleum free. The tire, which hit the
U.S. market in July and is available in four sizes, also improves fuel
efficiency via a 20-percent reduction in rolling resistance and by its
proprietary Advanced Inner Liner, which is lighter than conventional
butyl liner. The Advanced Inner Liner minimizes tire weight and reduces
air loss to help the tire stay properly inflated.
“We feel the Tire Rack test shows that the dB Super E-spec is the
perfect tire for consumers seeking a blend of excellent traction and
handling in addition to environmental benefits,” said Chung. “It
reinforces our feeling that Yokohama is the only brand introducing
tomorrow’s technology today.”
Celebrating its 40th anniversary in the United States, Yokohama Tire
Corporation is the North American manufacturing and marketing arm of
Tokyo, Japan-based The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., a global manufacturing
and sales company of premium tires since 1917. Servicing a network of
more than 4,500 points of sale in the U.S., Yokohama Tire Corporation is
a leader in technology and innovation. The company’s complete product
line includes the dB Super E-spec™ – the world’s first tire to use
orange oil to reduce petroleum – as well as tires for high-performance,
light truck, passenger car, commercial truck and bus, and off-the-road
mining and construction applications. For more information on Yokohama’s
extensive product line, visit www.yokohamatire.com.
Yokohama is a strong supporter of the tire care and safety guidelines
established by the Rubber Manufacturers Association and the National
Highway Transportation and Safety Administration. Details can be found
at the “Tire Safety” section at www.yokohamatire.com.