The new SmartWay-verified GT Radial GT979 FS trailer tire is being introduced to the North American market, meaning there is now a SmartWay GT Radial truck tire for every axle position, the tire maker said. The GT Radial GT979 FS joins the GT Radial GSL213 FS steer tire and GT669+ FS drive tire, both of which received SmartWay verification in 2010.
“This is great news for our customers because trailer tires have a significant impact on fuel economy,” said William Estupinan, Giti Tire technical director for the Americas.
According to Estupinan, on a tractor-trailer combination, the steer tires contribute 15% to 20% of the tires’ overall contribution to fuel economy, drive tires 30% 40%, and trailer tires about 40% to 50%. SmartWay-verified products reduce emissions and provide an estimated fuel savings of 3% or greater against market leading on-highway commercial truck tires.
“We have a great story to tell in terms of our product lineup in North America and an outstanding cost-per-mile performance,” said Tom McNamara, vice president of sales for Giti Tire North America.
