Global tyre major Goodyear is launching a new truck tyre line, KMAX EXTREME, which it says is specifically engineered for use in conditions of extreme heat
The new line offers improved wear, greater durability and lower operating costs, said Goodyear, adding that the range comprises three designs: the steer, drive and trailer tyres. These have been designed for trucks operating long distances in multiple loading conditions that are primarily running on roads where long-term resistance to heat is the main performance factor.
The main benefits the new tyres offer are regular wear to maximise life and lower operating costs, and greater durability. Specially designed tread patterns and compounds ensure regular wear and resistance to abrasion in hot conditions, and the carcasses are likewise designed to cope with long life cycles in such conditions, said Goodyear.
The new Goodyear KMAX EXTREME truck tyres have been developed for hot running conditions such as those experienced in the GCC countries, said Rupert Kohaupt, Goodyears EMEAs sales director, Truck Tyres, for Emerging Markets. These conditions increase wear and reduce durability in standard tyres, so the new tyres have been engineered to not only overcome these issues but also to save fuel and reduce operating costs.
The KMAX EXTREME tyres feature tough carcasses with a construction that gives maximum performance and retreadability with excellent durability and reduced weight, said Goodyear. The tread compounds have been specially developed for cool running to ensure extended mileage under high temperature conditions as well as low rolling resistance for reduced fuel consumption and emissions, the manufacturer added.
A special feature of the KMAX S EXTREME steer tyre is IntelliMax Rib Technology. This improves the tracking and steering on the front axle, shortening stopping distance and increasing mileage. The tread design comprises stiffener bridges in the central grooves. These connect when the tyre rolls through the footprint, allowing the two central ribs to support each other, stiffening the tread design and limiting slip especially when cornering. Thanks to the design, steering precision and road holding is maintained throughout the treads life, said Laurent Colantonio, director, Truck Tyre Technology for Europe, Middle East and Africa. The KMAX EXTREME drive tyre has also been designed to provide long-lasting, uniform wear, while delivering excellent fuel economy.
Both the steer and drive versions of the KMAX EXTREME tyres are produced in size 315/80R22.5 and the trailer tyre in size 385/65R22.5. A 385/65R22.5 steer tyre will become available in late 2018, said Goodyear.
