GREENVILLE, S.C. (May 20, 2014) — Michelin North America Inc. is launching a BFGoodrich-brand highway drive tire, the DR454, that has been EPA SmartWay-verified for fuel efficiency.
The tire maker is targeting owner-operators and small- and medium-sized fleets that need a SmartWay-verified tire for highway and super regional applications, the company said.
The tire is available in two sizes — 11R22.5 and 275/80R22.5 — and will carry an intermediate price point.
The DR454 will complement, not replace, the BFG DR444 drive tire, with the DR454 touting fuel efficiency and traction while the DR444 offers long mileage, according to Michelin. The DR454 is the third BFG tire to be SmartWay verified; the others are the ST244/ ST230 all-position/steer tires and the TR144 trailer tire.
Donna Murphy, business segment manager for BFGoodrich Commercial Truck Tires, said BFG's goal in the commercial segment is to build trust with its customers by offering products that meet the critical business needs of small fleets and owner-operators.
Ms. Murphy hinted that the company has more changes in the offing.
Michelin also announced that it will launch a print advertising campaign for its BFGoodrich brand of passenger, off-road and truck tires in June.