Goodyear Introduces DuraSeal Technology in Line-haul Trucking

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE: GT) announced today that it has adapted its revolutionary self-sealing commercial tire technology on a broader scale for use on long-haul trucks.

The new Unisteel G316 LHT line-haul trailer tire featuring DuraSeal Technology allows semi-trucks to continue operating after a tire is punctured by road debris up to 1/4-inch diameter in the repairable tread area, greatly reducing vehicle downtime and service calls. The new tire was introduced here to U.S. and Canadian tire dealers at an annual conference.

Already proven in mixed-service applications -- such as logging, construction and mining -- the technology uses a gel-like, solvent-free compound built into the inner liner of the tire. It consistently and instantly seals punctures with gel flowing into void areas and around objects less than 1/4-inch in diameter.

No other tire manufacturer offers commercial tires with built-in sealant, Goodyear officials said.

"The technology transfer into line-haul trucking is significant," said Steve McClellan, vice president of Goodyear commercial tire systems. "DuraSeal in the G316 LHT helps reduce fleet downtime, helps lower a company's cost of operation and enhances retreadability.

"For Goodyear, the new tire expands our premium product line in the biggest segment of trucking -- long-haul. DuraSeal helps us deliver difference-making real value to end-users looking for solutions.

"Since we introduced DuraSeal Technology into mixed-service tires in 2005, trucking fleets have been clamoring for the technology in line-haul trailer tires. This responds to their needs," McClellan said.

Nearly half of all commercial tires sold are for long-haul, the 18-wheelers that transport goods cross country; the remainder are for mixed-service -- trucks that travel on- and off-road in their work, regional pickup and delivery, recreational vehicles, buses and towable trailers.

Goodyear is using DuraSeal in the G316 LHT trailer tire, which also is available in a fuel-efficient version featuring Fuel Max Technology.

"Self-sealing technology in trailer tires is relevant, since maintaining the inner tire of a dual-tire setup is difficult. Trailers usually are the least-maintained equipment in a fleet's operation. In addition, with the industry averaging four trailers for each tractor, there's a greater opportunity for DuraSeal to help long-haul fleets improve productivity," McClellan said.

The new tire features an all-steel four-belt package, helping to provide a solid foundation for multiple retreads, said Tim Richards, project manager for line-haul tires. A solid shoulder rib and innovative pressure distribution groove help resist shoulder wear.

The G316 LHT and matching retreads sport a 12/32nd-inch tread for more miles to removal. The tire is manufactured in Goodyear's Danville, Va., manufacturing plant.

Goodyear commercial tire systems offer complete products and services to the trucking industry, including a full range of original equipment and replacement tires. In addition, the company's cradle-to-grave tire and service network includes retreading, tire management tools and business solutions for tomorrow's trucking fleets.

To learn more about how DuraSeal Technology works, go to http://www.goodyear.com/truck/whatsnew/howItWorks.html.