The summer passenger tire Yokohama Advan Sport V103 is designed primarily for car enthusiasts who highly value sporty handling, but are not willing to sacrifice a high level of comfort. Despite the fact that this respected and world-renowned Japanese manufacturer positions this model as a premium-class tire, it is produced in more than 50 sizes, from 16 to 22 inches. This speaks to the exceptional applicability of this model to most high-speed and powerful modern passenger car models, including sports sedans and coupes.
In creating the tread, the same technologies were widely used as in the development of special sports tires that have proven their effectiveness in the prestigious Le Mans 24-hour race. Japanese tire manufacturers have equipped this model with a tread having an asymmetrical directional pattern, the design of which was developed with the help of computer modeling tools. The tread, as is customary for a high-quality tire with a speed index of Y, is equipped with five longitudinal ribs, including two shoulder zones. Thanks to the asymmetrical construction of the tread elements, the tire consists of two parts, one of which provides reliable and stable behavior on a straight line, and the other allows for high-speed cornering. At the same time, a double longitudinal rib with high structural rigidity is located on the outer side of the tread. Due to the high rigidity of this rib, the Yokohama Advan Sport V-103 tire demonstrates the highest levels of directional stability at any speed, as well as high braking efficiency. Additionally, the rigid design of this rib has provided the tire with a very high speed response to steering wheel turns, which has introduced sporting characteristics into the handling.
Innovative rubber compound composition
This tire became one of the first models to use the patented ZERUMA technology for the first time. This technological development involves the introduction of a special substance, known as a softening agent, into the rubber compound composition. This component allows for a more even distribution of silica throughout the tire tread. Silica is a silicon-containing component that gives the tread elasticity. Due to this, the tread fits more closely to the road surface, which allows for a significant increase in the contact patch area and, consequently, traction on dry and wet roads.
In addition to a rubber compound with a high silica content, this model is distinguished by a highly efficient drainage system. This tread element consists of four wide longitudinal grooves and numerous transverse channels. When driving on a wet road, water collects in the four longitudinal grooves and is directed into the side channels, through which it is discharged outward. At the same time, the speed of water removal from the contact patch was significantly increased due to the special elliptical shape of the transverse channels. Moreover, the walls of the longitudinal grooves are equipped with numerous channels that contribute to more efficient heat dissipation and also have a positive effect on the even distribution of load on the tread elements.
Stability at any speed
This model was developed in full accordance with the company's concept of "Strength from the inside", i.e., strength from within. The goal of this concept is to achieve maximum stability and safety when driving at high speeds. One of the components of the new concept was a carcass with a multi-layered structure.
The tire sidewall in the area of contact with the wheel rim is equipped with a special rim ring. This element minimizes the risk of the tire bead shifting off the rim, especially in the event of a loss of pressure in the tire. In addition, the tire design includes a special reinforcement cord, which is also located in the area of contact between the tire and the wheel rim. Due to this, softness is ensured during normal driving and strength in the event of a loss of pressure in the tire. Thanks to the metal cord, the sidewall has increased structural strength, and the special rubber compound generates less heat, ensuring a high level of safety even in the event of a complete loss of pressure in the tire.
Key features of the Yokohama Advan Sport V103
- The stability of the tread shape, regardless of road surface characteristics and driving mode, ensures excellent traction in all conditions and reduces the risk of uneven wear;
- Four longitudinal drainage grooves in combination with numerous transverse elliptical channels minimize the likelihood of aquaplaning, even when driving at very high speeds;
- The asymmetrical directional tread pattern, developed with the help of computer modeling tools, provides excellent handling and low noise levels;
- The rounded tread profile has made it possible to achieve excellent stability and reliability when driving at high speeds.