FULLERTON, Calif. (July 3, 2007) — Yokohama Tire Corp. will begin shipping its new S.drive tire this month to U.S. dealers.
The initial rollout, slated to be complete by year-end, includes 70 sizes in 15- to 20-inch rim diameters.
“Extensive testing shows the S.drive performs better in both wet and dry conditions than the AVS ES100 it replaces,” said Dan King, vice president of sales.
The tire uses a silica-based compound developed with nanotechnology that is designed to conform to the road surface to maximize grip in wet and dry conditions, the Fullerton-based tire maker said. Small scores on the tire's groove walls aim to distribute stress loads to reduce uneven wear.
The tire is aimed at vehicles such as the BMW 3 Series, Honda Civic and Ford Mustang.