Goodyear rolls out EV-compatible low-rolling resistance drive tire

ORLANDO, Florida—Even as fleets transition to electric vehicles, they will still have plenty of traditional vehicles, which is why Goodyear Tire & Rubber's newly released RangeMax RSD EV drive tire is compatible with electric and gas- and diesel-powered regional trucks. The tire, available now in size 295/75R22.5, was revealed here at American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council’s 2023 Annual Meeting.

According to Goodyear, the low-rolling resistance tire is the company’s “best regional drive tire for energy efficiency” and “equipped to handle the higher load capacities of EVs.” During testing, the tire demonstrated better rolling resistance versus two comparable competitors.

By utilizing Goodyear’s TreadLock Technology, the tire will wear more evenly during that time, according to the company. The RangeMax’s enhanced tread pattern is designed to handle the high torque an EV motor can generate while also helping promote more even wear—a benefit for regional trucks, which typically make more turns and stops than long-haul trucks, according to Goodyear.

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The casing construction is designed to provide more toughness and durability. The casing can be retreaded, according to Goodyear, but there is no matching retread for the RangeMAX as of yet.

“The new RangeMax RSDEV strives to live up to its name and deliver the superior range and confidence that comes with ultra-low-rolling resistance,” said Tom Lippello, senior director of commercial marketing at Goodyear North America. “With the continued growth we’re observing in the regional EV segment, changing power trains, and fleets’ cost-savings and sustainability priorities, Goodyear recognized an opportunity to provide fleets and original equipment manufacturers with a tire designed for the unique needs of these vehicles.”

The tire is also the first regional drive tire embossed with Goodyear’s “Electric Drive Ready” designation.