While company officials are citing up to a 4% hike in fuel economy with the new tires, Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) lab test results showed an 8% improvement in fuel economy compared with standard Goodyear over-the-road tires. The difference reflects adjustments for real-world variations, including vehicle speed, idling time, varying road grades and different driving styles.

The new Fuel Max line is available in all wheel positions—steer, drive and trailer—and retreads for a complete cradle-to-grave tire system for trucking fleets and owner-operators. The tires are available for use on new trucks and as replacement tires.

Goodyear tires featuring Fuel Max Technology include the Unisteel G395 LHS steer tire, Unisteel G305 LHD drive tire and Unisteel G316 LHT trail tire in standard (11R22.5) and low-profile (295/75R22.5 and 285/75R24.5) sizes. Goodyear also is offering UniCircle and precure retreading with Fuel Max Technology.

SmartWay-approved equipment, like aerodynamic front bumpers and side mirrors, can cut wind resistance and reduce fuel consumption by 10-20%. When used with other SmartWay-qualified components, the tires can help each truck can produce savings of up to 4,000 gallons per year, or more than $11,000 annually, according to Goodyear and EPA officials.