TOKYO (Nov. 4, 2009)—Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd. has unveiled a new material inner liner developed as next-generation technology to increase the fuel-saving performance of its eco tires.
Yokohama said its Airtex advanced liner has a new material that adheres to the inside of the tire and controls leakage. The liner is an original technology developed by adding special resin to conventional inner-liner rubber and is patented, the company said.
The material—both impermeable and flexible—can substantially reduce the volume of air naturally leaking from a tire, according to Tokyo-based Yokohama. Additionally, it is only one-fifth as thick as conventional products, which contributes to making the tires lighter and more fuel efficient.