These drive tires regenerate themselves
Feb 1, 2008 12:00 PM
Michelin is unveiling the latest innovation from its Michelin Durable Technologies research: the new XDA5 drive tire for Class 8 rigs.
The firm uses patented design and manufacturing techniques to mold the tread of the XDA5 in three dimensions. As the tire wears, the tread reveals new grooves and tread blocks, effectively giving the tire a second life — self-regenerating to improve wet, worn traction. This regenerating tread design keeps the tire in service longer before retreading, a 30 percent improvement in tread life over other drive tires that are commercially available.
In addition to outlasting other tires, the Michelin XDA5 tire also has a footprint that is more than 10 percent wider than its predecessor, delivering a larger contact patch and superior stability and handling throughout the life of the tire.
The Michelin XDA5 tire will soon be available in four sizes, 275/80R22.5, 11R22.5, 275/80R24.5, and 11R24.5. In 2008, it will be offered in a 305/75R24.5 LRJ version, created expressly to accommodate Mexico's higher load-carrying demands.
Access www.michelin.com for further details.
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