Japanese specialists at Yokohama, when developing the A349AX model, used the global BluEarth concept. It has eco-friendliness, safety, and comfort laid down as equivalent design vectors. This has had a positive impact on the entire range of operating characteristics.
Next-generation energy efficiency
Developers achieved low rolling resistance through several solutions. Firstly, a lightweight aerodynamic frame structure is applied, reducing the weight of the tire. Secondly, special polymers with low internal friction are introduced into the compound. The result is a noticeable fuel savings in urban and highway cycles.
Innovative rubber
The key feature is a rubber mixture based on silica with the addition of orange oil. This recipe solves the classic problem of summer tires - on a wet road, the unevenness of the asphalt should be filled with an elastomer, but at the same time, the compound should not become too soft in the heat. Orange oil acts as a natural plasticizer. It increases the elasticity of the rubber at low temperatures and maintains structural rigidity in the summer heat. Silica provides reliable molecular bonding with a wet surface.
Acoustic comfort and rib structure
The symmetrical non-directional tread pattern is designed using computer modeling technologies. This made it possible to select such forms, sizes, and arrangement of tread blocks, which minimizes noise and vibrations.
The through longitudinal zone with two continuous stiffness ribs performs three functions at once:
- the tire clearly keeps straight at speeds up to 210 km/h and above;
- optimization of air flow resistance - the monolithic central part minimizes deformations during rolling;
- the rigid central zone prevents the appearance of feathering wear, characteristic of many budget summer models.
Between the two halves of the central rib, an additional drainage groove is located, which significantly increases the tire's resistance to aquaplaning.
Key features of Yokohama A349AX:
- the model was created according to the environmental standard with a priority on fuel efficiency, safety on a wet road, and acoustic comfort;
- the proprietary recipe provides elasticity over a wide temperature range and excellent grip on a wet surface;
- the double rib stabilizes the car at high speed, reduces rolling resistance, and extends the life of the tread;
- 4 wide straight grooves effectively drain water, preventing hydroplaning.
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