SHERIDAN, WYOMING – November 26, 2024 - Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. is supplying its 507U rib-lug tires as original equipment for Isuzu Motors Limited's new ERGA EV, a fully electric flat-floor route bus. This partnership highlights Yokohama Rubber's commitment to developing advanced tire technologies that meet the unique demands of electric vehicles in the commercial sector.
Enhanced Durability and Performance for Electric Buses
The 507U tire is specifically designed for low-floor buses and features enhanced durability and wear resistance, making it ideally suited for the heavy-duty demands of electric buses. Its retreadability further contributes to its long-term value and sustainability.
In addition to its robust construction, the 507U delivers exceptional performance in key areas:
- Fuel Efficiency: Contributes to reducing energy consumption and extending the driving range of electric buses.
- Quietness: Minimizes noise generation, complementing the quiet operation of electric vehicles.
- Wet Braking: Provides superior braking performance in wet conditions, enhancing safety.
"E+" Mark for Electrified Vehicles
The 507U tire proudly bears Yokohama Rubber's proprietary "E+" mark, signifying its suitability for electric vehicles. This mark indicates that the tire incorporates technologies that address the specific needs of electric vehicles, such as:
- High Load Capacity: Reinforced construction to withstand the increased weight of electric batteries.
- Quiet Operation: Minimized noise generation to complement the quietness of electric motors.
- Energy Efficiency: Optimized design to improve energy consumption and extend driving range.
Supporting Sustainable Transportation
The ERGA EV, Isuzu's first fully electric flat-floor route bus, benefits from the 507U's advanced features. The bus's flat-floor design, enabled by the flexibility of the electric drivetrain, provides easy access for passengers, similar to conventional non-step buses.
Yokohama Rubber's Commitment to Commercial Tires
Yokohama Rubber's "Yokohama Transformation 2026 (YX2026)" medium-term management plan emphasizes the growth potential of commercial tires. The company is dedicated to strengthening its position in this market by enhancing its tire technologies and brand value.
"To strengthen its position in the commercial tire market, Yokohama Rubber is endeavoring to enhance its tires’ technological capabilities and raise its brand value by promoting the use of its tires as original equipment on new vehicles that demand the highest tire technologies," states the press release.
Driving Innovation in Commercial Tire Technology
The partnership between Yokohama Rubber and Isuzu Motors for the ERGA EV exemplifies the growing demand for advanced tire solutions in the electric commercial vehicle sector. The 507U tire, with its "E+" mark, represents Yokohama Rubber's commitment to developing innovative and sustainable tire technologies that meet the evolving needs of the transportation industry.