Tyre manufacturer news - Yokohama Looks Ahead with
New W-Drive Tyre
11 Apr 07
By Emily Henry
Contributing Writer
In a forward-thinking move for the middle of spring,
Yokohama has turned its attention to winter tyres. March
saw the release of the new Yokohama W drive tyre… a high
performance tyre, specifically designed to provide acute
handling in diverse weather conditions. The W drive tyre
is expected to reach a wide market, as Yokohama has
taken care not to compromise speed for handling in
wintry conditions. The W drive has speed ratings up to
V, making it an attractive option for a diverse range of
vehicles from compact to performance.
The compound featured on the Yokohama W drive tyre is
made from micro silica, the latest innovation in Silica.
When used in combination with Yokohama’s patented
dispersal agent, Zeruma, the silicates are distributed
evenly throughout the rubber. This even distribution is
essential for ensuring flexible polymers, which are the
key to providing flexibility and suppleness to the tyre
at low temperatures.
Emphasising the asymmetrical tread pattern, Yokohama
claims that the W drive tyre provides a balanced
performance in both wet and dry conditions. Yokohama
also claims that the rigid blocks contained in the outer
edge of the tyre are specifically designed to
accommodate dry cornering, while the softer inside of
the tread allows for additional grip on roads affected
by snow or ice. The snow and ice traction is also
increased by the polyhedral tread, as the 3-D zigzag
pattern maximises surface grip.
The Yokohama W.drive is set to be available in 67 sizes
between 14 and 19-inches and in H, T, and V ratings.
Yokohama has forecast a sales potential of one million
W.drive tyres per year.
http://www.reifenpresse.de/CDML007/en/gast/fs_kurzmeldungen.html
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