Low Rolling Resistance Tires
Low rolling resistance tires save fleets in fuel costs. It’s important to compare this option to non-low rolling resistance tires to evaluate fuel savings as an offset to the traditional cost model that includes purchase price, miles-per-32nd and overall tire life.
Fuel-Efficient Tire Science
Three main factors impact a tire’s rolling resistance: tread compounding, tread pattern design and tire structure. The dynamics of rolling resistance allow tire manufacturers to deliver greater fuel economy gains for truck fleets. Components to consider when trying to improve tire fuel efficiency are:
- Shallower tread depth
- Good balance between cap and base compounds
- Tread pattern
- Streamlined ribs
- Blocks and lugs
- Stiffer belt package
Rolling Resistance
The entire weight of a tractor-trailer is on its tires, creating a rolling resistance. This makes tires an important area to focus on when identifying ways to improve fuel efficiency. Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) help improve efficiency in the wheel system. Key considerations to also include when working to optimize this area of the vehicle are tire wear and damage susceptibility.
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