MONROVIA, Calif. (June 15, 2010) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has verified Double Coin Holdings Ltd.'s FD405 drive-position radial as a fuel-saving technology under its SmartWay Transport program, giving the Chinese tire maker two tires on the list.
The FD405 drive tire is part of Double Coin's fuel-efficient tire lineup, according to China Manufacturers Alliance L.L.C. (CMA), the firm's U.S. subsidiary. The EPA verified Double Coin's FT105 trailer tire in March, and CMA officials said the company is working to get its FR605 steer tire verified as well.
Each tire in this series is made of advanced tread compounds and internal construction to provide lower rolling resistance and longer mileage, CMA said. The FD405 drive tire has a 26/32-inch tread depth with stone drilling protectors to promote long original mileage.
Based upon data provided by tire manufacturers and EPA testing and research, the EPA has determined that using low rolling resistance tires on the steer, drive and trailer axle positions can provide a reduction in NOx emissions and an estimated fuel savings of 3 percent or greater relative to the “best selling” new tires.
SmartWay Transport is an innovative collaboration between the EPA and the freight sector designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gases and air pollutant emissions, and improve energy security.