Four More Yokohama Commercial Tires Earn EPA SmartWay Verification

FULLERTON, February 15, 2010: Four more Yokohama Tire Corporation commercial truck tires have been added to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay list of verified technologies for tires. This brings the number to seven of Yokohama products that are recognized as SmartWay “low rolling resistance tires.”

SmartWay Transport, a collaboration between the EPA and the freight sector, is designed to improve energy efficiency and energy scrutiny, and reduce greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions.

The Yokohama commercial tires receiving SmartWay status are the 101ZL™ and 103ZR™ steer tires, RY587™ trailer tires and the TY517MC2™ drive tires. These tires meet the SmartWay program’s stringent verified low rolling resistance criteria because they run cooler and help reduce fuel consumption, which cuts costs and benefits the environment.

The 101ZL and 103ZR steer tires are both part of Yokohama Tire’s Zenvironment™ line, which consists of ultra high-tech truck tires that last longer and are more fuel efficient. The 103ZR, at 23/32, is the deepest SmartWay-verified tire. The RY587, which offers premium performance for long-haul trailer applications, delivers a combination of long, even original tread mileage, lower fuel consumption and outstanding durability. The TY517MC2 delivers outstanding traction, long even wear and superior durability while also providing excellent low rolling resistance.

All Yokohama’s SmartWay-verified tires, as well as its full Zenvironment line, will be on display in booth number 14124 at the upcoming Mid-America Trucking Show, March 25-27 at the Kentucky Expo Center, Louisville, Kentucky.

“This recognition from the EPA SmartWay program is proof that our technologically-advanced tires help save fuel and protect the environment,” said Takao Oishi, Yokohama president and CEO. “We are proud to be recognized by the EPA for our environmental initiatives, and we look forward to being part of the SmartWay program for years to come.”

This is the second SmartWay recognition Yokohama Commercial tires have earned in just over a year: In January 2009, Yokohama’s RY617™ steer tire, 703ZL™ drive tire and RY587MC2™ trailer tire became the first three tires for the company to be named “verified low rolling resistance tires,” approved for use on SmartWay-certified trucks.

Additionally in 2009, Yokohama was named a Partner in the program, with status in the “shippers” category, meaning the company ships more than 50 percent of its products on SmartWay-designated transport carriers.

According to the EPA, Yokohama’s freight efforts will contribute to the goal of eliminating 33 to 66 million metric tons of carbon dioxide and up to 200,000 tons of nitrogen oxide per year by 2012. Carbon dioxide is the most common greenhouse gas, and nitrogen oxide is an air pollutant that contributes to smog.

Launched in 2004, the EPA’s SmartWay program identifies products and services that reduce transportation-related emissions, resulting in significant air quality and/or greenhouse gas improvements while maintaining or improving current levels of other emissions and/or pollutants.

The EPA says companies that participate in SmartWay Transport programs save money, reduce fuel consumption and are recognized for their social responsibility and leadership.

For more information about the SmartWay program, visit www.epa.gov/smartway.