Goodyear has long been a driving force in shaping the all‑season category, setting benchmarks rather than following them. This tire builds on that legacy and was engineered with a clear belief that drivers should not have to accept trade‑offs just because the weather is unpredictable. After four years of focused development, relentless testing, and some bold engineering decisions, Goodyear delivers an all‑season tire that challenges the category’s historic limitations head‑on.

No weak seasons. No hidden compromises.

One Mandate: Eliminate Trade‑Offs

Vector All Season 4 was developed by over 70 engineers across four years, united by a single non‑negotiable goal: build an all‑season tire with no weaknesses. That clarity changed everything.

Core performance targets were achieved early in development, freeing engineers to spend nearly 75 percent of total R&D time on refinement, where marginal gains become meaningful advantages. Close to 50 individual performance KPIs were sharpened across dry, wet, snow, and ice handling, efficiency, mileage, noise, and comfort, all tested across a wide range of temperatures and real‑world surfaces.

Crucially, long‑accepted all‑season “trade‑offs” were not treated as inevitable. Wet braking versus mileage. Dry grip versus aquaplaning and fuel efficiency. Snow traction versus noise. These tensions weren’t managed in isolation. They were engineered together as one integrated system as drivers don’t wish to accept any compromises during their drive and balance is essential across the tire.

The outcome is holistic performance, with progress in in all principal disciplines achieved without paying for it elsewhere.

“All‑season performance is inherently complex,” said Ben Glesener, Senior Technology Director, Product Development Consumer EMEA, Goodyear. “Vector All Season 4 benefited from the effort to push refinement further than ever before. That’s where true differentiation is made, in the details most drivers never see, but absolutely feel.”

WeatherReady Technology™: Built for Reality, Not Just Test Cycles

At the heart of Vector All Season 4 is Goodyear’s new WeatherReady Technology™, an engineering foundation designed to deliver calm, predictable performance across the chaos of real‑world weather. It combines three performance pillars, engineered to work together rather than compete. It is the first time that these performance pillars have been presented together in the European market, elevating the balanced performance of this tire.

Certain When it Counts
A newly developed tread pattern and block architecture deliver superb grip and braking across seasons and changing conditions, helping drivers stay assured when road or weather shifts unexpectedly. Rigid central longitudinal blocks create stability on dry roads, while a high density of Diapason Blades provides the traction and braking performance required on wet and snow‑covered surfaces.

The iconic V‑shaped tread design actively clears water from the contact patch, improving aquaplaning resistance and delivering controlled, predictable wet handling without sacrificing dry confidence.

Confidence, Whatever You Drive
An enhanced footprint improves road contact throughout the driving experience regardless of the size and weight of the vehicle. Optimized pressure distribution across the footprint improves grip in all conditions while also reducing wear rates.

Efficient. Comfortable. Refined.
A new tread compound, built on an advanced polymer matrix and resin system reduces surface abrasion and rolling resistance while preserving grip. The result is improved durability, better efficiency, and an extended mobility range across dry, wet, and winter conditions.

A Category Pioneer Still Setting the Pace

Goodyear didn’t just enter the all‑season category, it helped define it, starting with the world’s first all season tire in 1977. In 2003, Goodyear introduced in Europe the first Vector all‑season tire with a directional V‑shaped tread pattern, a bold departure from conventional symmetrical designs. That V became both a visual and functional signature, engineered with intent and instantly recognizable across the category.

Vector All Season 4 advances that legacy with a new patented tread pattern and a design language tailored for today’s premium vehicles where performance, efficiency, and visual confidence are never an afterthought. 

For sizes of 19 inches and above, the High-Contrast Sidewall delivers a distinctly premium appearance. Precision nano‑texturing and advanced laser‑engraving technology create an ultra‑deep black finish with heightened contrast and clarity. Designed to look as confident parked as it performs at speed.

“Design is part of performance,” said Julien Caroux, Technical Project Manager Consumer Replacement Goodyear EMEA. “From the directional V-shaped tread to the high-contrast sidewall, every visual choice reinforces confidence before the driver even turns the wheel.”

From 4Seasons to All Season: A Statement, Not a Label

The transition from Vector 4Seasons to Vector All Season reflects Goodyear’s ambition to set a more demanding benchmark for all season performance.

 Vector All Season 4 is engineered to deliver a higher level of consistency across a broader range of real-world conditions, greater temperature variation, more varied usage, and the performance expectations of modern premium vehicles.

“At Goodyear “All Season” is a declaration of consistency, a refusal to accept seasonal blind spots and a clear signpost for where Goodyear believes all‑season performance must go next,” said Ben Glesener, Senior Technology Director, Product Development Consumer EMEA, Goodyear.

For full product details and the original launch announcement of Goodyear Vector All Season 4, please visit the Goodyear Newsroom: https://news.goodyear.eu

In 2023, Goodyear launched its EV-Ready logo to mark the EV compatibility of its entire range. Every new size introduced since then includes the logo on its sidewall to denote how the technology within every new Goodyear tire is optimised and compatible for the latest EVs, but every tire in the range meets the EV-Ready criteria, whether they carry the logo or not.

An EV converts much more of its input energy into usable motion than an ICE vehicle, which magnifies the effect of rolling resistance, hence making it a much larger factor on overall vehicle efficiency. EVs tend to be heavier than comparable ICE vehicles, too. Goodyear develops its range of tires to ensure optimised efficiency without compromising the tire’s exceptional performance.

SoundComfort Technology is a cutting-edge feature which dramatically reduces interior noise created by tire/road interaction in quiet EVs. This technology has the potential to reduce interior noise by up to 50%¹, which is crucial to ensure a quiet, comfortable journey.

Moreover, the added weight and increased torque of EVs means the wear on EV tires can be much more substantial compared to traditional combustion vehicles. Goodyear’s Mileage Plus Technology offers drivers the opportunity to maximise the life of their tires and travel further with each set.

Goodyear ‘Electric Drive Technology’

To identify specific Original Equipment (OE) tires for EVs and PHEVs, Goodyear has introduced the Goodyear ‘Electric Drive Ready’ (EDR) marking. This means the tire features a customised range of technologies to cater for the needs specified by that particular car manufacturer, such as load capacity, handling performance and range.

Goodyear collaborates with OEMs to develop OE fitments that are ideal for their latest vehicles. 

1) Compared to its predecessor, Asymmetric 5

Uniting Goodyear’s expertise in the performance car segment with its heritage in the world’s premier racing championships, Goodyear Eagle is an icon in its own right. Today, the name is carried on Goodyear’s Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 and Eagle F1 SuperSport ranges, as well as specialised racing slick tires trusted by the stars of the FIA World Endurance Championship’s LMGT3 class and NASCAR Cup Series.

Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6: Award-winning performance 

Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 boasts exceptional performance and efficiency. Technologies such as Dry Stability Plus and Wet Braking Pro give an overall balanced and consistent driving platform that enables the tire to adapt to driving style and situations, delivering ultra-high performance on dry and wet roads. 

Goodyear’s latest technologies combine in Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 to give drivers the performance they’ve come to expect from an Eagle tire while meeting modern noise and emissions standards and catering for the demands of electrified vehicles, too. It is also a proven test winner, recognised by Auto Bild in multiple tests since its launch¹. 

In fitments designed for nearly everything from premium hatchbacks to sports cars and everything in between, Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 now delivers sporty performance for a wider range of drivers than ever before. 

Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport: The UUHP tire with motorsport pedigree

The Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport range comprises race-proven ultra-ultra high-performance (UUHP) tires. There are three SuperSport variants: SuperSport, SuperSport R and SuperSport RS, each one a step towards track performance compared to the last.

With balanced wet and dry performance for the road and superior grip and handling for the track, Eagle F1 SuperSport is characterised by its exceptional versatility and performance. It features stiffened tread ribs for responsiveness, a strengthened sidewall, and a tread pattern that allows drivers to push on dry roads and enjoy exceptional performance and predictability in the wet.

The choice of performance brands

For 45 years, Goodyear Eagle has been the choice of many premium manufacturers’ most exciting road cars, too. Today, between SuperSport and Asymmetric 6, Eagle F1 tires come as standard on performance cars as diverse as the Lotus Emira, Porsche Macan 4 Electric, BMW 1 Series and Audi S5. When Ferrari chose Eagle F1 SuperSport for its 12Cilindri, a partnership going back to the Eagle-equipped Ferrari Testarossa of the 1980s was reignited. At the track day end of the range is Eagle F1 SuperSport RS, which was specially designed in collaboration with Porsche for the manufacturers’ RS models like the 911 GT2 RS and GT3 RS.

To read more about Goodyear Eagle’s storied 45-year history click here: Trusted by heroes, chosen by millions: Goodyear celebrates 45 years of Eagle product line

1) Auto Bild, multiple tests: https://news.goodyear.eu/goodyear-named-top-manufacturer-of-the-year-of-summer-tires-by-auto-bild

Advancing AIMS International’s Digitalization with Goodyear CheckPoint 

Goodyear CheckPoint is a yard-based, drive-over inspection system that automatically measures tire pressure and tread depth in seconds as vehicles pass over a ground-embedded plate equipped with sensors and cameras. Results are available instantly via a display terminal and the Goodyear fleet applications, helping teams identify issues before they lead to unplanned downtime and enabling faster, safer dispatch operations with less manual checking. 
By digitizing routine tire inspections and alerting maintenance teams to priority actions, CheckPoint helps reduce labor and inspection time versus manual checks, while giving fleet managers a frequently updated snapshot of tire program health across vehicles. 
Goodyear’s CheckPoint solution is designed to support the company’s position as a preferred mobility partner across the Kingdom. 

Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 

The digital collaboration directly supports Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS) objectives to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics hub, enhance safety and efficiency across transport networks, and leverage advanced technologies to raise sector performance. Goodyear’s CheckPoint deployment at AIMS International’s dispatch points exemplifies practical digital adoption that improves fleet reliability, safety, and sustainability—key pillars of the NTLS—and complements the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) focus on building world-class logistics capabilities . 

"Partnering with Goodyear reflects our commitment to operational excellence and innovation. Goodyear’s reputation for durable, high-performance tires, together with connected solutions like CheckPoint, strengthens the safety and efficiency of our operations and our customer promise. Given Saudi Arabia's global standing in the logistics sector, AIMS International Company saw the need to attract global technology with the highest specifications and standards in line with Vision 2030 to cover the local market with top-level services." — Jaber Hameem, President & CEO, AIMS International 

Hassan Shabakah, Director – Commercial Tires, Al Rashed Tires, added: "We have a proud legacy of supporting the development of Saudi Arabia's optimum consumption for commercial tires. By leveraging our deep knowledge of the market and operating conditions, we are able to localize global tire technology, like Goodyear’s Checkpoint monitoring solutions, to empower our valued partners like AIMS International in their achievement of business goals." 

"Goodyear has a long-standing track record of delivering durable, high-quality tires, such as the KMAX Extreme Gen 2, tailored to the unique demands of the GCC—supporting fleet uptime and safety in the toughest conditions. That performance has earned the trust of customers across Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC, positioning Goodyear as a dependable partner of choice for fleet operators. Through innovations like CheckPoint, we are proud to support AIMS International in advancing efficiency, safety, and digital transformation." — Saban Gungor, General Manager, Sales Replacement, Middle East & Africa, Goodyear. 
 

Goodyear has supplied tires for many of Audi’s most exciting models, including the Q6 e-tron, e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT. The new collaboration as the primary tire supplier for the Audi A5 and S5 marks the beginning of the next chapter in the partnership between these two iconic brands.

Goodyear tires, including the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, Eagle F1 SuperSport and UltraGrip Performance 3, deliver fitments for Ultra High Performance, Ultra Ultra High Performance and winter driving applications, with varied focuses from low rolling resistance to excellent braking to meet the driver’s needs and preferences. These tires have ten fitments¹ that will cover the new A5 and S5 range in both saloon and Avant estate variants.

Audi and Goodyear's collaborative innovation

When developing an OE tire for a performance car, subjective driver feedback is a crucial parameter that previously could only be measured with real-world track testing. Goodyear is leading the way with the use of virtual development to get efficient and versatile feedback from test drivers who know the performance characteristics that premium performance car drivers demand. 

One of the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 fitments was developed using Goodyear’s state-of-the-art Simulation Center at its facility in Luxembourg. Opened last year, the driving simulator allows Goodyear’s R&D team to develop OE tires virtually, testing and validating tire models more quickly and by saving resources, to reach first approval from the OEM with fewer physical tire models. The Simulation Center opening in Luxembourg followed the launch of the inaugural center in Akron, Ohio – and allows Goodyear to have a global approach to tire development.

In all, the process of creating this virtually developed tire took ten months and met Goodyear’s goal of achieving first approval by Audi on its first physical iteration, which was produced after two virtual development cycles to assess handling, mileage performance and noise. According to Goodyear's calculations, developing just one physical iteration has the potential to save thousands of physical tires and thousands of kilometres of physical tire testing. 

Luca Davide Andreoni, Head of Brand Goodyear: “We are pleased that the new Audi A5 and S5 are available with our summer UHP and UUHP and winter ranges. We are particularly proud of the benefits seen by using our state-of-the-art Simulation Center in the field of virtual tire development. By reducing the development process time, we were able to meet Audi’s demands faster and by using fewer resources, making performance tire development more impactful.” 

Dr. Peter Knauer, AUDI AG, Development Chassis/Wheels: “The development work at Audi goes right down to the last detail. Each model gets its own tires. In the A5, they are geared towards efficiency and comfort, the S5 on performance.” 

Three hero products on offer 

All tire fitments developed for the A5 and S5 models are from three of Goodyear’s hero product ranges in the UHP, UUHP and winter segments.

Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is Goodyear’s award-winning¹ globally available tire designed for summer driving on wet and dry roads. Its low rolling resistance was a key feature for Audi, helping improve efficiency and comfort without sacrificing performance.

Inspired by the racetrack, the Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport shares DNA with Goodyear’s range of racing tires but is characterized by exceptional versatility and performance with balanced wet and dry performance on the road and track day capability. Stiffened tread ribs and a strengthened sidewall result in a responsive tire that allows drivers to feel feedback and enjoy exceptional performance for both road and track driving. 

For winter driving, Goodyear’s UltraGrip Performance 3 is the latest in Goodyear’s line of UltraGrip tires. Recognised as the winner of ADAC’s² latest winter tire test for its “safe and precise driving characteristics,”² it delivers enhanced handling on snow and optimised wet braking while maintaining comfort through a noise-cancelling tread pattern. 

Vehicle Tire Sizes available^* 

Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 

205/50R17 97W 

225/55R17 101Y  

235/45R18 98Y

Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport 

245/40R19 98Y 

245/40R19 98Y 

245/35R20 98Y v1 

245/35R20 98Y v2

Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 

215/55R17 98Y 

235/45R18 98Y 

245/40R19 98Y

_{1) Awards include Auto Bild summer tire test 2023: Auto Bild: 50 summer tires tested, dimension 225/45R18. Test car: BMW 3 Series. Issue 10/2023.} 

_{2) ADAC winter tire test 24 September 2024, dimension 215/55R17. Test car: Volkswagen T-Roc.}

The 55% sustainable-material content is achieved through the use of carefully selected ingredients, such as silica produced from waste rice husk ash and carbon black sourced from alternative feedstocks.

A legacy of innovation in truck motorsport

Goodyear has been a key player in the European Truck Racing Championship series since 2003, continuously advancing tire technology to push the boundaries of performance of race trucks. The Goodyear FIA ETRC serves as a platform for testing next-generation tire solutions, with insights gained from the racetrack influencing the development of Goodyear’s commercial truck tires.

“The Goodyear FIA ETRC serves as an additional proving ground for the latest advancements in truck tire technology,” said Maciej Szymański, Marketing Director, Commercial EMEA, Goodyear. “By increasing the share of sustainable materials in our racing tires, we not only support the championship’s sustainability agenda but also pave the way for broader innovations that benefit the entire transport industry.”

“With the introduction of Goodyear’s next-generation 55% sustainable material racing tire, we take another step toward sustainability transformation of our truck racing series” said Georg Fuchs, Managing Director of ETRA. “This partnership demonstrates that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand, paving the way for a more responsible future in both racing and road transport.”

The introduction of Goodyear’s 55% sustainable-material truck racing tires aligns with the Goodyear FIA ETRC’s ongoing sustainability journey. The championship has been running on 100% renewable HVO biofuel since 2021 and holds the FIA’s three-star environmental accreditation[2]— the highest level in the framework. Goodyear has also earned this top-tier certification[3], extending beyond the FIA ETRC to its wider motorsport programs, including the FIA World Endurance Championship, 24 Hours of Le Mans, and European Le Mans Series. Additionally, Goodyear remains committed to retreading truck racing tires, repurposing them for commercial transport applications to minimize waste and enhance resource efficiency.

Introduced last season, Goodyear’s latest truck racing tire[4] features an advanced compound designed to enhance grip, particularly in wet conditions. In the Goodyear FIA ETRC, regulations require a single tire to perform consistently across a wide range of circuits and weather conditions — including dry, wet, cold, and hot surfaces. Additionally, the latest design improves durability[5], reducing the total number of tires used throughout the championship. This helps teams maintain optimal performance while improving overall efficiency in tire usage.

Goodyear applies the ISCC  PLUS sustainability certification system and mass-balance approach to support transparency and accountability in tracking the sustainable materials throughout the supply chain.

[1] Goodyear defines sustainable material as a bio-based (defined as material of biological origin (Source: ISO 14021)); renewable; or recycled (defined as material that has been reprocessed from recovered [reclaimed] material (Source: ISO 14021)) material; or one produced using or contributing to other practices designed to promote resource conservation and/or emissions reductions, including ISCC PLUS mass-balance (defined as a certification verifying our capability to track the amount and sustainability characteristics of circular and/or bio-based material in the value chain and attribute it based on verifiable bookkeeping (Source: www.iscc-system.org/certification/chain-of-custody/mass-balance/)) material.

[2] https://www.goodyearfiaetrc.com/home-slider/fia-three-star

[3] https://news.goodyear.eu/goodyear-receives-fias-highest-level-environmental-accreditation/

[4] https://news.goodyear.eu/goodyear-continues-title-sponsorship-of-goodyear-fia-etrc-with-brand-new-tire-specification/

[5] Compared to the predecessor

As the exclusive supplier of tires for the LMGT3 class at the FIA WEC, Goodyear is pivotal in equipping some of motorsport’s most prestigious racing brands, including McLaren, Ferrari and Aston Martin. The presence of the Goodyear Blimp at Imola underscores the importance of these partnerships to Goodyear whilst also bringing an extra layer of excitement to a renowned event in the racing season. 

Celebrating 100 Years of the Goodyear Blimp 

The visit to Imola additionally marks the start of celebrations in Europe for an extraordinary milestone: 100 years of the Goodyear Blimp. For a century, this aviation icon has captivated crowds worldwide with its pioneering journeys, unmistakable silhouette and distinctive branding.  

“The Goodyear Blimp is more than just an aviation marvel. It’s a global icon that combines innovation and tradition,” said Luca Davide Andreoni, Head of Goodyear Brand Consumer EMEA. “This year we’re celebrating a very special anniversary: the centennial of our Icon. We are really proud to see the Goodyear Blimp it in the skies of Imola and to celebrate this the Italian fans.”  

Goodyear Blimp enthusiasts can expect exciting updates throughout 2025 as the Blimp visits legendary races and locations across Europe. Fans can follow along at this link or visit social media to watch out for where the Blimp is headed next.  

Italy: A Special Place for the Goodyear Blimp 

Italy is a cherished location for the Goodyear Blimp. In the 1980s, Rome served as its inaugural European base, a launchpad for decades of memorable journeys across the continent.  

Auto Bild, Europe’s most widely read automotive magazine, named Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 ‘Eco-Master 2025’ in its latest summer tire test.¹ The ultra-high-performance (UHP) tire, which also earned shared overall Test Winner status, impressed with its combination of performance, class-leading mileage, lowest cost per 1,000 km driven, and minimal external noise.¹ This demonstrates the tire’s suitability to equip the latest modern electric vehicles (EVs), and marks the sixth time since 2020 that Auto Bild has awarded Goodyear this prestigious title.

In its latest test, AUTO ZEITUNG also recognised Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 for its excellent performance and class-leading mileage, awarding it an ‘Environmental Recommendation’ and declaring it the overall Test Winner.² The magazine described the tire as "absolutely flawless" and commended its ability to "combine performance and sustainability at the highest level."² Test editors further stated “with the tire’s fastest [wet] handling time, the Goodyear [tire] underscores its excellent wet performance. It steers agilely and precisely, and exhibits a sporty, neutral overall setup; strong braking performance; on grippy asphalt, the Goodyear delivers the best results, it consistently builds up enormous grip and remains easily controllable,” adding “top values for wear and mileage, as well as low rolling resistance, strengthen its sustainability.” Overall, they described the tire as "without any weaknesses," stating, “it comes out on top [of ten competitors] and also proves to be the most durable tire.”

In a third test by ADAC, Europe’s largest automobile association, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 earned a “Good” rating in the environmental performance assessment. The experts commented on the Goodyear tire: “It delivers good, predicted mileage in the wear test, its abrasion is low, and it also scores highly in terms of efficiency with its low weight and low fuel consumption”.³  

Auto Bild also awarded Goodyear’s EfficientGrip 2 SUV the title of ‘GREEN TIRE’ in its latest electric vehicle test, commenting on its “outstanding mileage”. ⁴ 

Auto Bild’s EV test assessed eight summer tires in the popular 215/55R18 size, evaluating wet and dry performance, mileage, cost per mile and rolling resistance. The ‘GREEN TIRE’ award was based on criteria including mileage, coast-down testing, pass-by noise, rolling resistance, EU tire label ratings, and transport route considerations.

Laurent Colantonio, Vice President, Global Quality, Goodyear: “Goodyear’s premium summer tire range strikes the perfect balance between performance, and comfort, while keeping our commitment to sustainability top of mind. Every Goodyear tire is developed with a focus on helping drivers to achieve greater mileage and efficiency with every journey, without sacrificing performance. These recognitions reaffirm our commitment to tire technology that meets modern drivers' needs while help to support a better future, making our tires ideal for all kinds of vehicles, including SUVs and electric vehicles.” 

Notes to editor 

Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is a tire developed to deliver performance responsibly, focused on lowering rolling resistance and the use of sustainable materials .The tread of the tire has nearly three times as many bio-resins and double the amount of other sustainable materials as its predecessor. ⁵ Its low rolling resistance and high load rating make it optimal for modern SUVs and EVs, which demand more from a tire to maximise range and efficiency. Its EV-ready construction also features a noise-cancelling pattern which reduces road noise by 1 dB(A). ⁶ Goodyear’s Dry Stability Plus Technology is also present in the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6. This allows the tire to adapt to the road surface and always deliver the optimal amount of grip, traction and stability. In wet conditions, the tire features an advanced resin for optimal road contact, giving the tire excellent wet grip.

Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV incorporates a range of innovative features to enhance mileage while maintaining strong performance. Goodyear’s Mileage Plus Technology provides a 25% improvement in mileage compared to its EfficientGrip SUV predecessor. ⁷ This is achieved through high tread elasticity and flexibility, reducing fractures from rough road conditions. Additional features include improved water evacuation for shorter braking distances on wet surfaces, as well as larger central ribs and increased contact surface for improved dry braking.

1. Auto Bild issue 10/2025, March 6, 2025. 52 tires tested, size 225/40R18. Test car: BMW 1-series. Comments translated from original German. 
2. AUTO ZEITUNG print issue 6/2025. 10 tires tested, size 225/45R18, test car: Skoda Octavia Combi 1,5 TSI. Comments translated from original German. 
3. ADAC summer tire test, February 2025. 17 tires tested, size 225/40R18, test car: VW Golf VIII. Comments translated from original German. 
4. Auto Bild summer tire test for EV, March 2025. 8 tires tested, size 215/55R18, test car: Hyundai Kona. Comments translated from original German. 
5. A sustainable material is a bio-based (defined as material of biological origin (Source: ISO 14021)); renewable (defined as Material that is composed of biomass from a living source and that can be continually replenished. (Source: ISO 14021)); or recycled (defined as material that has been reprocessed from recovered [reclaimed] material (Source: ISO 14021)) material; or one produced using or contributing to other practices designed to promote resource conservation and/or emissions reductions, including ISCC PLUS certified material via mass balance (defined as a certification verifying our capability to track the amount and sustainability characteristics of circular and/or bio-based material in the value chain and attribute it based on verifiable bookkeeping (Source: www.iscc-system.org/certification/chain-of-custody/mass-balance/)). 
6. Internal test, reduction noise compared to predecessor Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5. 
7. Internal test, compared to predecessor EfficientGrip SUV. 

The story of Eagle continues to this day, with its latest model – Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 - being one of the best-sellers in Europe and Asia and recently introduced in the Americas. The story behind it incorporates fascinating innovation, evolving from the track to the street model after model, writing the history of motorsport and equipping some of the most desirable sports cars of the past half-century.

“Win on Sunday, sell on Monday” 

The name ‘Eagle’ has become closely associated with motorsports, alongside the Goodyear brand, due to its frequent appearance on motorsports tires opposite the Goodyear logo. Goodyear had occasionally used the Eagle name before, but 1980 marked a significant milestone. That year, Goodyear increased investments to lead the high-performance tire market, applying its racing technologies and expertise to consumer products. To strengthen the connection between track and road, the company decided to use the same name for both its racing and ultra-high-performance tires: the Goodyear Eagle brand. 

The first official Eagle road tire was launched for the US market in 1981 and was followed by the Eagle VR50, developed soon after to meet the stricter European speed requirements. VR stood for ‘V-rated’, denoting that the tire met what was at that time the highest speed rating restrictions in Europe to be capable of sustained speeds of up to 130 mph (209 km/h). To develop the Eagle VR50, which had a directional ‘gatorback’ tread pattern derived from the company’s F1 wet tire of the era, Goodyear teams in the US and Germany worked together to develop a tire ready for the unrestricted speeds of the German autobahn. Back in America, it was chosen as original equipment on both the Chevrolet Corvette and Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. 

More and more high-performance tires used the Eagle name to link back to Goodyear’s winning heritage. 

Eagle F1: To new levels of performance 

In 1992, McLaren launched its McLaren F1, at the time the world’s fastest production car with a Guinness World Record speed of 240.1 mph (386.4 km/h). To meet the demands asked for this impressive feat of engineering, Goodyear developed a special tire for it: the Eagle F1. McLaren’s original press release highlighted the importance of Goodyear’s contribution: “Right from the McLaren F1’s initial design, the tire was considered as an intrinsic suspension element within the programme’s complex handling and comfort calculations. Weight, safety, noise and dynamic performance were all vital factors.” 

The directional tread pattern in the VR50 proved so popular for its combination of dry handling feedback and wet weather grip that it became the inspiration for the next generation of Eagle Road tires in 1994 with the launch of the Eagle F1 GS-D2 (Grand Sport - Directional) and later GS-D3 in 2000. Directional patterns remained the key design philosophy until the launch of Eagle F1 Asymmetric in 2007. 

As the weight, power and rim sizes of performance cars increased, Goodyear had to develop a tire with a stronger shoulder to handle this extra dynamic load. By using an asymmetrical design, Goodyear’s development teams were able to match these requirements and improve grip and dry handling without compromising on the predecessor’s renowned wet weather performance. 

Back on the top step: The latest advancement in an iconic story 

In 2019, the Eagle family moved up a level with the launch of Eagle F1 SuperSport, a new range of ultra-ultra-high-performance tires for ultimate performance on the road - and track. Available in SuperSport, SuperSport R and SuperSport RS variants, each a step closer to track day speciality than The latest Eagle line has improved to meet the trends of the automotive industry over the past decade and a half, developing through generations to reach today’s Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, which gives drivers the track-inspired performance they’ve come to expect from an Eagle tire while meeting modern noise and emissions standards and catering for the demands of electrified vehicles, too. 

Goodyear Eagle is still the choice of many premium manufacturers’ most exciting road cars, too. Between SuperSport and Asymmetric 6, Eagle F1 tires come as standard on performance cars as diverse as the Lotus Emira, Porsche Macan 4 Electric, BMW 1 Series and Audi S5. At the track day end of the range is Eagle F1 SuperSport RS, which was specially designed in collaboration with Porsche for the manufacturers’ RS models like the 911 GT2 RS and GT3 RS. 

And Eagle F1 SuperSport was chosen also for the new Ferrari 12Cilindri, reigniting a popular partnership that has lasted over four decades as a mid-80s Goodyear ad proudly set out: “Every Formula 1 Ferrari, every Ferrari 328 and every Ferrari Testarossa that comes to America comes on Goodyear Eagles. And only on Goodyear Eagles. Why? Because Mr. Ferrari wants it that way.” 

Designed to meet the needs of fleets operating in Saudi Arabia’s challenging weather conditions, Goodyear TPMS enables proactive tire monitoring and maintenance, allowing operators to act before they suffer any damage or downtime – enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The introduction of TPMS is poised to reinforce Goodyear’s value proposition and drive growth for fleets in the region.

Goodyear TPMS provides real-time monitoring of tire pressure and temperature to detect issues like under-inflation, air leaks, and mechanical faults. Using a cloud-based platform, the system delivers predictive insights about the fleet’s tire health via user-friendly web and mobile applications, enabling fleet managers to reduce downtime and optimize performance. By maintaining optimal tire conditions, TPMS improves fuel efficiency, reduces CO2 emissions, and lowers operating costs, all while enhancing safety and compliance through early detection of potential issues.

Saban Gungor, General Manager of Goodyear Middle East & Africa, commented on the launch, stating, “We believe that Goodyear TPMS can be a game-changer for fleet operations in Saudi Arabia. This innovative technology exemplifies our commitment to delivering solutions that enhance performance while prioritizing safety and sustainability. We’re thrilled to bring this technology to local fleets to enhance their day-to-day performance and give peace of mind when it comes to the safety of their drivers and assets."

Combined with Goodyear’s CheckPoint solution, this launch strengthens the company’s position as the preferred mobility partner for fleets across the Kingdom.

June 3, 2025 marks the 100^th anniversary of the Goodyear Blimp, and today, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company announced that it will celebrate the occasion throughout the year by bringing the blimp closer to its fans around the globe.

In 2025, the Goodyear Blimp will aim to fly to more than 100 cities across North America and Europe, with aerial appearances over new events, from the biggest matchups in sports to music festivals and other cultural moments, giving more fans than ever a chance to see the famous airship firsthand.

“The Goodyear Blimp is an enduring symbol of both nostalgia and innovation for fans around the world. With its century-long history and unique ability to instill a sense of wonder in those who experience it – whether from on the ground or in the air, the blimp gives Goodyear a way to connect with the public in a way no other tire company can match,” said Mark Stewart, CEO and President of Goodyear.

Goodyear Blimp fans can stay up to date on the latest celebratory activities and Goodyear Blimp news by following @GoodyearBlimp on social media and visiting GoodyearBlimp.com.

100 Years of the Goodyear Blimp

Goodyear has been experimenting with lighter than aircraft since as early as 1910. Starting with the blimp Pilgrim in 1925, Goodyear Blimps have served as a public relations vehicle to drive brand awareness for the company and delight fans in communities across the country. Today, the Goodyear Blimp remains as one of the most lasting and iconic corporate brand assets in the world.

With the ability to access all data through user-friendly reports, Goodyear CheckPoint allows Al Salem to proactively address their operational needs related to tires.

This latest development signifies Al Salem's dedication to leveraging cutting-edge technology to achieve the highest levels of safety and efficiency. This aligns perfectly with the Kingdom's goal of improving the quality and connectivity of transport networks, outlined in the Saudi Vision 2030.

Mustafa Alsalem, Business Development Manager, Al Salem Transportation & Tourism Co., said: "At Al Salem, our mission is to provide safe and comfortable journeys for everyone in the Kingdom. We pride ourselves on working only with industry leaders to deliver premium safety and service levels. Partnering with a leading global tire manufacturer like Goodyear, renowned for their premium tires and innovative digital fleet solutions, is a testament to our commitment to this mission."

Yasser Meyer, CEO of Al Rashed Tires, added: “We have a proud legacy of supporting the development of Saudi Arabia's automotive industry. Leveraging our in-depth market knowledge, we are able to localize global tire technology, like Goodyear’s Checkpoint monitoring solutions, to empower our valued partners like Al Salem in their achievement of business goals.”

Commenting on the expanded partnership with Al Salem, Saban Gungor, General Manager of Goodyear Middle East & Africa, continued: "As a preferred fleet mobility partner, Goodyear is dedicated to delivering not only high-quality tires but also value-added mobility solutions, like the Checkpoint tire monitoring, to our fleet customers. We are thrilled to support Al Salem on their digitalization journey with the adoption of this technology, setting a new benchmark for safety and operational efficiency in the Kingdom."

Goodyear is announcing the launch of its latest premium truck line of tires, the Goodyear EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA. Engineered to meet the evolving demands of the transportation industry, these tires are designed with an emphasis on sustainable material usage , fuel efficiency and versatility, making them well-suited for a wide range of applications, from long-haul to inter-regional routes.

With the launch of the Goodyear EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA, Goodyear introduces a tire range that aims to support sustainability and performance to meet the current needs of transportation fleets. As industry regulations further tighten emission standards, the need for introducing new products and solutions has never been greater.

Depending on the different sizes, tires from the Goodyear EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA ranges are made with up to 55% sustainable materials[1], including ingredients like Rice Husk Ash (RHA)-based silica.

Advanced compounds for mileage and fuel efficiency

With the introduction of a new tread compound that includes a higher content of silica, the EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA tires offer up to 20% better mileage[2] and up to 6% improved rolling resistance[3] compared to their predecessors. The high abrasion-resistant tread compound made with silica is engineered to help improve  wear, reduce heat generation, and lower rolling resistance, helping to enhance mileage, long-term durability and fuel efficiency.

Complementing the tread improvements, the new  carcass compounds featuring silica  contribute to lower heat generation within the carcass, helping to reduce rolling resistance and increasing long-term durability. These advancements can help the EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA tires to provide reliable, cost-effective performance over extended periods, making them potentially a valuable asset for fleet operators.

Building on the key features of FUELMAX ENDURANCE and FUELMAX PERFORMANCE ranges, the Goodyear EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA drive tires can also enhance traction with a directional tread with high-profile depth. The new tire range also enhance the robustness of steer tires, helping reduce the risk of damage and irregular wear. In EQMAX T ULTRA, designed for trailers, new tread design with additional sipes was introduced to enhance grip and braking on all weather conditions.

Designed for the future: Electric Drive Ready and RFID technology

The EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA tires are designed to be Electric Drive Ready. This means they are suitable for a variety of drivetrains, including diesel, gas, electric, and hydrogen-powered vehicles, offering a one-product solution for all vehicle types. With a higher load capacity than conventional tires of the same size and lower rolling resistance, these tires help optimize the range of electric vehicles while ensuring robust performance across all driveline configurations.

Goodyear EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA tires come also equipped with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags. These tags enable each tire to communicate with cloud networks on an individual serial number level, providing seamless tire flow management and enhancing fleet management capabilities.

"The launch of the Goodyear EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA tire range represents a significant step forward in our commitment to support our customers in their sustainability journey and at the same time providing improved performance of our products. These new tires are not just built for today's needs but are designed with the future in mind, offering versatility and efficiency across a wide range of applications” — said Xavier Fraipont, Vice President Commercial EMEA at Goodyear.

Visit Goodyear in Hall 21, Stand B38 at IAA Transportation 2024, and discover how Goodyear’s innovative products and solutions can transform your fleet operations.

About Goodyear EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA:

New range is specifically designed to meet diverse transportation needs with a focus on efficiency and sustainability. Goodyear EQMAX and EQMAX ULTRA range will be available for all axle positions – steer, drive, and trailer – ensuring comprehensive coverage for various vehicle configurations as well as helping to minimize emissions and maximizing fuel efficiency.

Goodyear EQMAX range: featuring the EQMAX S and EQMAX D, offers versatile and balanced performance for highways and secondary roads, making it adaptable to various driving conditions.

Goodyear EQMAX ULTRA range: for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions[4]. Range includes the EQMAX S ULTRA, EQMAX D ULTRA, and EQMAX T ULTRA and is optimized for highway use, helping deliver enhanced sustainability without compromising on performance. Additionally, the entire EQMAX ULTRA line (across all sizes and positions) will feature an "A" label for fuel efficiency, reflecting its commitment to reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

--

[1] EQMAX range featuring up to 55% of sustainable materials.

Goodyear defines sustainable material as a bio-based (defined as material of biological origin (Source: ISO 14021)); renewable; or recycled (defined as material that has been reprocessed from recovered [reclaimed] material (Source: ISO 14021)) material; or one produced using or contributing to other practices designed to promote resource conservation and/or emissions reductions, including ISCC PLUS mass-balance (defined as a certification verifying our capability to track the amount and sustainability characteristics of circular and/or bio-based material in the value chain and attribute it based on verifiable bookkeeping (Source: www.iscc-system.org/certification/chain-of-custody/mass-balance/)) material.

[2] In comparison to predecessor, based on internal Goodyear data

[3] In comparison to predecessor, based on internal Goodyear data

[4] New tread compound technology in EQMAX range helps to increase mileage, lower rolling resistance and fuel consumption and, therefore, helps reduce CO2 emissions. Based on internal Goodyear data.

Easier maintenance and servicing

The updated Goodyear CheckPoint system includes a new modular tread depth sensor design, allowing for easier maintenance and servicing of each laser and camera unit through a plug-and-play setup. This design brings improved durability compared to its previous version being more resistant to the weather, mitigates the impact of heavy vehicle loads and vibrations resulting in more accurate measurements and also helps optimize operational efficiency and lower costs for customers due to less servicing needs. With each fully sealed module enhancing weather resistance, the system's robustness further helps ensure fewer breakdowns, providing a reliable solution that minimizes downtime and maintenance expenses throughout the contract period.

Goodyear has also re-engineered its tread depth technology with advanced lasers and cameras to provide enhanced tread depth recognition. The upgraded system captures much more images with improved illumination, making it more precise and allowing for better identification of the tire's actual condition, even in complex tread designs. This enhancement ensures fleet managers receive highly accurate and detailed tire condition data, supporting more informed decisions as well as  overall fleet safety and efficiency.

These new technology upgrades have been specifically designed to be compatible with the majority of existing versions of the Goodyear CheckPoint.

“Goodyear remains committed to advancing tire technology and providing innovative solutions that enhance fleet operations” - said Piotr Czyżyk, Managing Director Fleet Mobility EMEA at Goodyear. “The latest improvements to the Goodyear CheckPoint are a testament to our dedication to helping fleets achieve greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability.”

Integrated applications and display terminal for streamlined fleet management

The Goodyear CheckPoint is supported by a suite of integrated applications designed to provide fleet managers and drivers with seamless access to vital vehicle and tire data.

• The Goodyear FleetHub app, available on web and mobile, provides an instant overview of tire conditions, detailed analysis, and customized reports for proactive maintenance.
• The Goodyear DriverHub app offers drivers real-time alerts and notifications about tire conditions.
• Display terminal  (optional) delivers instant, actionable data with a user-friendly dashboard and colored LED alerts, promptly notifying drivers of issues such as underinflated tires or overloads.
• LED matrix provides high-level information status information on tyre condition each time the vehicle drives over the plate.

These tools ensure fleet managers and drivers have the essential information needed to help optimize performance and safety.

“This product update is paving the way for a new product concept that will allow Goodyear to expand its application beyond fleets, introducing this technology to its service network, retail and other partners. The product updates are not limited to hardware, but also a software redesign that will bring a lot of innovation in the future to enhance the customer experience” - said Patricia Azzoni, Product Manager at Goodyear.

Goodyear CheckPoint was showcased by Goodyear at the IAA Transportation event from September 17-22, 2024. 

Goodyear tires have been chosen as original equipment (OE) fitments on the brand-new Audi Q6 e-tron, the German automaker’s new fully electric premium SUV. Goodyear developed its range of summer and winter tires with a specific focus on suiting the characteristics of the Audi electric SUV, incorporating technology that reduces road noise.

Goodyear’s Audi Q6 e-tron fitments come from its Eagle F1 Asymmetric and UltraGrip ranges for summer and winter applications, respectively. The approved fitments will fit multiple trim levels, with Goodyear’s SKUs ranging from 18” to 21”. Goodyear collaborated closely with Audi throughout the modelling and testing phases of tire development, resulting in fitments specifically tailored to enhance the vehicle’s performance.

The new Q6 e-tron was required to meet specific exterior noise standards in order to achieve homologation to new regulations that mandated a reduction of 2 dB¹. This necessitated tire development that lowered road noise. Goodyear supported Audi’s targets by tailoring the tread design and tuning the construction of the OE tires.

Furthermore, Goodyear developed specific tire specifications for each axle, allowing the performance characteristics of each to be tuned individually and resulting in excellent cornering stability and handling behaviour.

“Goodyear’s relationship with Audi is special in that it fosters a trust in us to develop bespoke tires tailored to their latest models,” commented Alexandre Scharis, Goodyear Senior Technical Project Manager. "In developing these tires, we worked very closely with the Audi team on modelling and testing, including fundamental bead area studies which resulted in an innovative bead area design that delivers extremely consistent tire performance.”

Johannes Moll, Managing Director Consumer OE, Goodyear EMEA added: “Goodyear is proud to have been chosen by Audi to develop tailored OE tire fitments to the new Q6 e-tron. Our collaboration has resulted in the development of tires which not only meet the advanced standards of the new model, but also enhance the driving experience with reduced road noise and optimized performance. This partnership once again reflects our commitment to the future of electric mobility.”

These OE fitments build on Goodyear’s established relationship with Audi on electric vehicles, having previously equipped the e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT². 

Tire SKUs available:

• Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 SUV 
  • 235/60R19 107H
  • 255/55R19 111H
  • 255/60R18 112H
  • 235/65R18 110H
  • 285/40R21 109W
  • 255/45R21 106W
• UltraGrip Performance+ SUV 
  • 235/60R19 107H
  • 255/55R19 111H
  • 255/50R20 109H
  • 285/45R20 112H

(1) Starting July 1st, 2024, new vehicles need to comply with the Phase 3 limits of 68 dB(A) under UN Reg 51.03 (Power to Mass Ratio < 120 kW/ton). This limit is 2 dB(A) lower compared to the current limit of 70 dB(A).
(2) https://news.goodyear.eu/goodyear-equips-the-fully-electric-audi-e-tron-gt-quattro-and-rs-e-tron-gt-with-eagle-f1-asymmetric-5-tires/

Goodyear has pushed the boundaries of tire technology and development for over 125 years. Now, with the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, a new chapter of Goodyear’s innovation is in full swing. 

Today, Goodyear’s latest generation tires, including Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, UltraGrip Performance 3 and Vector 4Seasons Gen-3, are designed for use on the latest generation of EVs, with a range of technologies to cater for the demands of electrified vehicles as well as internal combustion engine-powered models. This is achieved by optimizing the tire’s structure, in combination with developing innovative compounds and tuning the sidewall design for greater aerodynamic efficiency. 

Goodyear EV-Ready logo 

Goodyear’s entire current range of tires has been meticulously designed to meet the specific demands of both EV and ICE vehicle drivers. Recent additions to the range also feature the EV-Ready logo, launched in 2023, in a prominent position on their sidewall. The logo will appear in all communications and Goodyear systems to facilitate customer identification, whether or not the tire has the physical logo on its sidewall. 

An EV converts much more of its input energy into usable motion than an ICE vehicle, which magnifies the effect of rolling resistance, hence making it a much larger factor on overall vehicle efficiency. Goodyear's range of tires is developed with efficiency in mind without sacrificing performance, helping drivers to achieve greater mileage and efficiency with every journey. 

Goodyear has developed a suite of state-of-the art technologies to help accelerate electric mobility 

Goodyear’s SoundComfort Technology is a cutting-edge feature designed to reduce interior noise created by tire and road interaction in quiet EVs. This technology has the potential to reduce interior noise by up to 50%¹, to help ensure a quiet, comfortable journey in an electric vehicle. 

Moreover, the added weight and increased torque of EVs can lead to faster tire wear compared to traditional combustion vehicles. Goodyear’s Mileage Plus Technology is designed to offer drivers the opportunity to help maximize the life of their tires, and travel further with each set.  

Goodyear ‘Electric Drive Technology’ for OE 

Goodyear is the OE supplier to around 50% of European-made EVs², underlining the confidence that OEMs have in Goodyear technology. To identify specific Original Equipment (OE) tires for EVs and PHEVs, Goodyear has introduced Goodyear ‘Electric Drive Ready’ (EDR). This means the tire features a customized range of technologies to cater for the specific needs of that car manufacturer for a specific vehicle, such as combination of high load capacity, specific handling performance and other criteria. Ben Glesener, Senior Director Technology Consumer Tires, Goodyear EMEA, commented: “Goodyear’s product portfolio has been designed to help maximize performance and efficiency for all drivers on the road. EVs have accelerated the demands on tire manufacturers to develop products that meet the evolving needs of OEMs and drivers. 

“As we witness the popularity of EVs, Goodyear’s product portfolio offers an ideal fitment for a broad range of drivers, with innovations that ensure Goodyear remains at the forefront of the industry.” 

1.  Depending on the type of vehicle, its speed and road surface. Based on internal vehicle road measurements, tested February 2018, January 2018, November 2017 and October 2011 by Goodyear engineers in Luxembourg. Tire size: 225/55R17 on VW Passat Alltrack and Ford Kuga and 255/45R18 on Audi A7. 

2. Goodyear internal calculation made in September 2023. 

Goodyear announces its participation in IAA Transportation 2024, the leading international platform for logistics, commercial vehicles, and the transport sector, held in Hannover from September 17th to 22nd, 2024. Visitors can find Goodyear in Hall 21, Stand B38.

At this prestigious event, Goodyear will present its comprehensive Goodyear Total Mobility end-to-end solution, designed to enhance fleet efficiency, competitiveness, and support fleets in targeting their sustainability goals. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a range of innovative products, services, and mobility solutions that underscore Goodyear's commitment to supporting transport fleets in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.

Presenting Tires-As-a-Service

In addition to its established solutions, Goodyear will introduce its recently launched Tires-As-a-Service offering. Designed to reduce total cost of ownership, this subscription-based solution helps fleets save time and money by outsourcing tire management, leading to increased uptime and reduced vehicle breakdowns. Ensuring fleets operate efficiently, the Tires-As-a-Service offering allows Goodyear to manage end-to-end tire service on behalf of and for the benefit of its customers.

Targeting Sustainability Without Compromising Performance

At IAA Transportation, Goodyear aims to demonstrate that the sustainability goal of transport fleets can be maintained while driving performance. Through its comprehensive mobility solutions, Goodyear will showcase how sustainability and high performance can be integrated targets.

Goodyear's expert team will be on hand to provide in-depth insights into how their solutions can address the unique needs of different transportation companies.

Visitors to the Goodyear stand will have the chance to experience first-hand the benefits of Goodyear Total Mobility. Through interactive displays and direct engagement with Goodyear experts, attendees will gain valuable insights into how Goodyear’s solutions can drive efficiency and towards sustainability goals for their fleets.

Maciej Szymański, Director Marketing Commercial Europe, Goodyear, commented: "We are thrilled to exhibit at IAA Transportation 2024. This event offers a prime opportunity to showcase Goodyear's comprehensive suite of products and solutions that form the Goodyear Total Mobility ecosystem. Our central location at the show allows us to highlight how our innovative solutions can help fleets become more efficient, competitive, and maintaining their sustainability targets."

For more information, visit Goodyear in Hall 21, Stand B38 at IAA Transportation 2024, and discover how Goodyear’s innovative solutions can transform your fleet operations.

My Business Apps is a new subscription-based service from Volvo Trucks available in selected European markets during 2024. It enables customers to download business-related apps from different service providers for usage in the truck’s side display – no extra smartphones or tablets required.  The integration of the Goodyear DriverHub application with Volvo Trucks’ My Business Apps allows drivers and fleet managers to access real-time tire data, a critical component of vehicle performance. The application works seamlessly with Goodyear's tire management solutions, including Goodyear TPMS, Goodyear CheckPoint, and Goodyear DrivePoint, providing accurate and continuous tire condition information.

"Integrating Goodyear DriverHub with Volvo Trucks’ My Business Apps represents an important step toward enhancing fleet management with advanced tire monitoring solutions" said Piotr Czyżyk, Managing Director Fleet Mobility EMEA at Goodyear. “Our digital application ensures that drivers and fleet managers have access to vital tire data, helping them make informed decisions that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and support sustainability” – he adds.

“My Business Apps is an addition to our digital service offering in Volvo Connect. By collaborating with other service providers, we can offer a wider range of in-vehicle services to our customers and their drivers. It means that our customers can benefit from using already existing hardware and connectivity in their Volvo trucks and improving the driver’s work environment inside the cab”, says Annelie Norhav, Product owner at Volvo Trucks.

Goodyear DriverHub application within My Business App include:

• Real-Time Tire Monitoring: Immediate alerts and notifications for tire pressure and temperature deviations, enabling proactive maintenance to reduce breakdowns and enhance road safety.
• Predictive Maintenance: Early detection of pressure leaks, with differentiation between fast and slow leaks, allowing drivers to take timely and appropriate actions.

Improved tire maintenance leads to better fuel efficiency and lower emissions, contributing to more sustainable fleet operations.

“The collaboration with Goodyear makes it possible for us together to deliver a more complete solution to our common customers and make new customers aware of how they can benefit from this collaboration” – adds Norhav.

The service is available for trucks built from wk 9 2021 and onwards with a side display.

Contact your Volvo dealer for more information.

Goodyear’s new offering has enabled major fleets in the U.S. and Europe to lower costs and reduce vehicle breakdowns.

 The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company today announced the launch of a worry-free, tires-as-a-service offering that combines the company’s premium tires, proven predictive insights and industry-leading service footprint in one, subscription-based solution. Building on the company’s Total Mobility program, Goodyear will manage end-to-end tire service on behalf of its customers. 

Available for commercial and last-mile delivery fleets in the U.S. and Europe, Goodyear’s tires-as-a-service offering can help save time and improve total cost of ownership through outsourced tire management from this subscription-based solution. This is designed to increase uptime, reduce vehicle breakdown events, decrease fuel consumption and more. 

In recent pilots, the tires-as-a-service solution helped reduce total cost of ownership, contributing to a nearly 80% reduction in emergency vehicle breakdown events and a 100% reduction in customer-owned inventory for a last-mile delivery fleet operating in the U.S. Similarly, Goodyear’s new subscription helped a commercial fleet in Europe experience a nearly 50% reduction in emergency breakdown events and up to 4% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the prior year. 

“Goodyear’s tires-as-a-service offering is an evolution of our Total Mobility offering, providing a new solution for customers who require end-to-end tire management. It extends Goodyear products, services and solutions by providing one comprehensive, worry-free subscription,” said Gregory Boucharlat, vice president, Goodyear Tires-as-a-Service. “We have already demonstrated that leveraging this solution can help fleet managers realize untapped value, and we look forward to expanding it to new customers.” 

Key features of the pay-per-mileage subscription include: 

• Premium Goodyear tires equipped with tire intelligence technology to generate proactive insights 
• Continuous, 24/7 tire monitoring and data collection from every tire 
• Proactive alert management and service coordination 
• Halo® Tire Inflator, a self-powered automatic tire inflation system installed on applicable wheel ends (through an exclusive agreement with Aperia Technologies) 
• Access to Goodyear’s service network to dispatch technicians whenever needed 

To learn more or to contact a sales representative, visit www.goodyeartrucktires.com (U.S.) or www.goodyear.eu/en_gb/truck (EU).

Building on the success of last year’s tire protection program, starting April 15^th, 2024, customers who purchase a set of four Goodyear passenger or SUV tires with a diameter of 18 inches and above will be automatically enrolled in a twelve-month tire protection program. This tire protection program is valid for purchases of Goodyear tires from April 15^th, 2024 to October 15^th, 2024 inclusive. Drivers can avail this special promotion at over 300 points-of-sale across the UAE, including more than 17 Goodyear-branded retail stores and over 180 authorized tire dealers.

Working together with its UAE distributor, Swaidan Trading Company (STC), for this tire protection program, Goodyear's tire protection offers a range of comprehensive benefits to customers, including:

•  12 months of tire protection, safeguarding against unexpected damages.
•  Free puncture repair and a free tire check ensuring uninterrupted journeys on the road.
•  A 5-year warranty, reflecting Goodyear's commitment to exceptional quality and durability.

Fatih Baser, Director for Consumer Business, Goodyear Middle East & Africa stated, "With 40 years of enabling mobility for the UAE’s ever-growing community, we at Goodyear are thrilled to offer this extended protection coverage making our promise of greater driving experience even more available to drivers across the whole country.”

Shameem M.P, General Manager - Allied Products, Swaidan Trading Company added, “We are proud to be partnering Goodyear to offer this extended protection program, which further demonstrates our joint commitment to further enabling smooth journeys for drivers and passengers."

The first round of the FIA World Endurance Championship in Qatar marked LMGT3’s arrival to the championship, with Goodyear as the exclusive tire supplier. Through its new specification of LMGT3 tire and improvements to the logistical component of supporting the category, Goodyear has supported WEC and the FIA’s sustainability objectives to make the sport cleaner and more environmentally responsible. 

Goodyear manufactures every LMGT3 tire at its state-of-the-art facility in Hanau, Germany. The factory is International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS certified. ISCC PLUS certification demonstrates Goodyear Racing’s commitment to advancing circularity and traceability, two major sustainability targets. Using bio-based and recycled materials in its racing tires decreases the demand for finite resources. 

This year, every LMGT3 tire comprises 33% roughly sustainable material. The new tire specification represents one of the highest proportions of sustainable material currently used in GT racing. Sustainable materials include natural resins, carbon black, polymers and recycled steel. In addition, wet tires include rice husk ash silica.  

A key element to managing a sustainable production is producing less. Since returning to world championship level endurance racing in 2020, one of Goodyear’s objectives has been to reduce the carbon footprint of its endurance racing program. It’s achieved this by:

Making only one dry compound available each race

In 2022, Goodyear switched to using a single slick compound, significantly reducing the number of tires produced. Multi-compound championships often have to produce an excess to meet demand and give teams strategy choice, but simplifying the structure allows for more accurate forecasting. This small change alone has seen a 33% reduction in the number of tires produced over the course of a season. 

Removal of tire warmers 

WEC was the first FIA World Championship to step away from permitting the use of tire warmers in 2023. For tire manufacturers, this helps improve sustainability in a number of ways. Firstly, it lowers the amount of equipment that’s shipped to each race and simplifies logistics. Secondly, it significantly lowers the trackside energy consumption associated with tires. Goodyear developed this spec of tire in 2022, allowing for fast warm up to compensate for teams being unable to artificially heat tires.

Tires that last multiple fuel stints

Endurance racing has always been about going further with the same resources, and that philosophy is present in Goodyear’s LMGT3 tire range. Five stints on a single set of tires is possible at Le Mans this year, equivalent to three times the distance of a Formula 1 Grand Prix. 

Intelligent logistics to reduce carbon emissions 

In 2024, Goodyear Racing’s stock and equipment will travel by sea freight, making logistical operation behind the scenes more sustainable. Long-haul flights emit 47 times more greenhouse gases than ocean freight per ton a mile³.

Multiple uses for tires after use

Mike McGregor, Goodyear Racing’s Endurance Program Manager: “We’re fully committed to lowering the carbon footprint of our motorsport program. Whether it's transporting fewer tires overall or using cutting-edge technology to increase the amount of sustainable material in our tires, it all contributes to setting the standard in motorsport. 

“In addition, Goodyear’s racing activity directly informs the future of road-going tires, too. The collaboration between our race and road development teams reaffirms our commitment to international motorsport, with the continuous progress we can bring to our tires enjoyed by drivers all over the world.”

 ^{1. https://www.environmentalreport.fia.com/}

^{2. A sustainable material is defined as a bio-based/renewable, recycled material or one that may be produced using or contributing to other sustainable practices for resource conservation and/or emissions reductions including mass-balance materials.}

^{3. Air Freight vs Sea Freight Carbon Footprint (The Real Numbers in 2023): https://8billiontrees.com/carbon-offsets-credits/carbon-ecological-footprint-calculators/air-freight-vs-sea-freight-carbon-footprint/}

During the event, Goodyear will showcase its state-of-the-art product lineup aimed at enhancing fleet operations and promoting sustainable urban mobility during the forum. Highlights at Goodyear's stand (R40) include:

·         Goodyear Checkpoint: An innovative solution for monitoring tire health, ensuring vehicles operate with optimum efficiency.

·         Goodyear Drivepoint: Designed for easy tire condition monitoring, enhancing vehicle safety and performance.

·         Goodyear Tire-Optix: A digital tool providing real-time tire diagnostics, assisting in preventive maintenance and minimizing downtime.

·         Goodyear TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System): Designed to deliver up-to-the-minute information about the condition of a fleet’s tires, the Goodyear TPMS helps fleet managers make timely and appropriate decisions and plan maintenance efficiently.

Moreover, Goodyear will provide visitors and participants at the forum to check the latest tire innovations exhibited, such as the KMAX S EXTREME GEN2 and OMNITRAC S HEAVY DUTY, both exemplifying Goodyear’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge technology and durability in challenging weather conditions prevalent in the region. Hamzeh Afaneh, Director for Commercial Business, Goodyear Middle East & Africa, will participate in a panel discussion on Sustainable urban delivery amidst an E-commerce boom: pioneering last-mile mobility solutions.

Saban Gungor, General Manager of Goodyear Middle East & Africa, remarked on the company's participation, stating, “We are proud of our continued collaboration and partnership with different regional mobility stakeholders working on developing the latest technology necessary for the continued business growth in the UAE for the past 40 years.” He further elaborated, “Goodyear is a trusted supplier to fleets in the GCC region, equipping them with technologically advanced tires tailored for the unique regional weather conditions. Our participation in Mobility Live exemplifies our commitment to expanding our role as the preferred mobility partner for fleets on their digitalization journey for durable and safe transportation.”

Goodyear invites attendees to visit Stand R40 to discover firsthand the innovative technologies and solutions that make Goodyear a global leader in tire manufacturing and mobility solutions.

– In addition to premium tires, Goodyear will support Alsalem Transportation & Tourism Co. with its signature digital tire management solutions including CheckPoint, an automated tire inspection system, and Tire Optix, a digital tire inspection solution. This enables Alsalem Transportation & Tourism Co. to make informed decisions and optimize its fleet's performance by prioritizing tire service and minimizing tire-related incidents. This will allow Alsalem Transportation & Tourism Co. to achieve its goals of delivering a superior standard of comfort and safety for its passengers.

The Goodyear CheckPoint provides automated inspections of tire pressure and tread depth. Ideal for high-volume yards, this solution enables large quantities of vehicles to be inspected and offers a frequently updated snapshot of tire health. Meanwhile Goodyear’s Tire Optix inspection solutions includes a digital inspection toolset that will enable Alsalem technicians to data accurately and efficiently with instant results. To ensure that Alsalem achieves intended efficiencies in its operations, Goodyear will also provide necessary digital knowledge transfer through staff training and technical visits.  

Alsalem Transportation & Tourism Co., with a fleet of 900 buses, stands as one of Saudi Arabia's largest bus operators, boasting over 50 years of experience in the transportation industry, catering to a variety of sectors including school transportation, employee transportation, and pilgrimage trips.

Mustafa Alsalem, Business Development Manager, Alsalem Transportation & Tourism Co. expressed their keenness on the partnership, stating, "We are pleased to partner with Goodyear to enhance our day-to-day operational efficiency and grow our business. Having a peace of mind knowing we can rely on their tires and data is invaluable for our operations and the achievement of delivering a safe and comfortable journey to our passengers.”

Commenting on the partnership, Saban Gungor, General Manager of Goodyear Middle East & Africa, said, "We have been a trusted mobility partner for commercial fleets in the Kingdom for over sixty years. I am pleased to say that this collaboration with Al Salem reaffirms our dedication to enabling mobility and supporting our customers' digital transformation journeys in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."

CEO of Al Rashed Tires, Yasser Meyer, said, " This collaboration represents a synergy of global expertise localized to deliver unparalleled value to Saudi Arabia's transportation sector. As a preferred mobility partner in Saudi Arabia, we are proud to be the bridge between local and global leaders in mobility technology."

Goodyear is proud to announce its continued association with Porsche to homologate the Eagle F1 SuperSport R and SuperSport RS, the two most performance-orientated tires in Goodyear’s UUHP portfolio. The designs of both tire specifications extract the most out of the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS supercar.

Pushing the limits of performance from a fully road-legal tire, Goodyear has developed a two-tire range for the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. The unique high-friction compound of the SuperSport RS provides a refined track-focused experience in dry conditions, while excellent cornering stability is achieved by bridges in the tread pattern’s inner groove, optimizing the tire’s footprint for more consistent pressure distribution.

Meanwhile, the Eagle F1 SuperSport R is an ultra-ultra high-performance tire with greater scope for road usability. Like the SuperSport RS, performance is its primary function and gives Porsche 911 GT3 RS buyers an option to select the most suitable tire depending on their driving habits.

“We are immensely proud to have worked with Porsche once again on this project,” said Johannes Moll, Managing Director OE Consumer, Goodyear EMEA. “A vehicle as extreme as the Porsche 911 GT3 RS deserves a tire that matches it in every way. From traction, turn in and braking performance, drivers can feel the road surface underneath them, giving them confidence and pleasure. Goodyear has taken lessons from its motorsport history to develop its line of UUHP tires,” Moll explains.

“Our tires enhance the performance and handling characteristics of the most specialist machinery on the roads today. The way both tire specifications perform on the track and the road is a testament to years of research, development and Goodyear’s working relationship with manufacturers.”

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is available with the following fitments:

Eagle F1 SuperSport R N0

275/35ZR20 102Y

335/30ZR21 109Y

Eagle F1 SuperSport RS N0

275/35ZR20 102Y

335/30ZR21 109Y

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company today officially opened its Simulation Center in Luxembourg to welcome a new era for tire design and development.

Outfitted with a DiM250 DYNAMIC Driving Simulator developed by VI-grade, the Center is designed to enhance Goodyear’s collaboration with OEMs and support elite tire performance through personalised product development.

Utilizing virtual tire development process, Goodyear’s team can use the Simulation Center to test and validate tire models for car models that do not yet exist. This allows for speedier production and ensures that tire modifications can be made in the development process to suit the vehicle’s needs.

Romain Hansen, vice president EMEA Product Development at Goodyear, says, “The opening of our industry-leading Simulation Center in Luxembourg displays Goodyear’s commitment to investing in and shaping the future of mobility.

“Our virtual tire development team has run numerous projects to date with the leading OEMs from Europe, the US and China," said Hansen. “Once the automotive engineers experience our virtual development process, they acknowledge both the potential business and possible sustainability impacts.”

Goodyear vision for future tire development

The Simulation Center further cements Goodyear long-standing commitment to safety, wellness and sustainability. The use of simulated driving allows for fewer physical tires to be produced and a speedier manufacturing process.  It will also help enable Goodyear to achieve first to approval for all development tires with only one physical iteration. In fact, based on Goodyear calculations, the ability to develop one physical iteration will save an average of 13,000 tires and 97,500km of physical tire testing[1].

The expansion follows the launch of the inaugural center in Akron Ohio in 2021.

Following a successful first project with Maserati to produce bespoke tires for the Gran Turismo 2023, the Simulation Center is supporting Goodyear on developing tailormade tires for OEMs across the world.

Goodyear’s EfficientGrip Performance 2 has been chosen by Citroën to equip its new all-electric ë-C3. The approved fitment embodies Goodyear’s commitment to performance, efficiency, and the future of electric mobility.

The new Citroën ë-C3 is the first all European designed and built affordable small car without any compromise on quality, experience and comfort.

Goodyear will supply the EfficientGrip Performance 2, a summer tire designed to offer ultra-low rolling resistance to increase efficiency and therefore electric range. It also features a flexible tread pattern that helps to reduce fractures caused by rough road surfaces, resulting in excellent durability.

Moreover, this original equipment partnership perfectly aligns with the recent introduction of Goodyear’s ‘Ready for EV’ strategy. As such, Goodyear has introduced two new labels visible on the sidewall of all EV and PHEV original equipment fitments, as seen on the ë-C3. These labels, known as Electric Drive Technology (EDT) and Electric Drive Ready (EDR), indicate the incorporation of a tailored set of technologies to cater for the specific and unique features of an electrified vehicle, such as combination of high load capacity, handling, and noise reduction.

Collaboration in the spirit of sustainability

Goodyear and Citroën share a successful sustainable partnership. In 2022 Goodyear developed the Eagle GO concept tire  to be fitted to the Citroën concept car, Oli. Its tread compound was made almost entirely out of sustainable or recycled materials.

Now, this latest OE fitment to the ë-C3 demonstrates the shared commitment to foster sustainability in the automotive industry, driven by innovation.

Johannes Moll, Managing Director Consumer OE, Goodyear EMEA commented: “Goodyear is delighted to have been chosen by Citroën to equip the new ë-C3. Our EfficientGrip Performance 2 offers a summer solution that perfectly complements the ë-C3’s modern electric capabilities, showcasing our commitment to delivering innovative solutions for electric vehicles and the future of electric mobility."

A range of Goodyear tires have been selected as original equipment (OE) fitments by Volkswagen for the all-new Passat Variant. Goodyear summer, winter and all-season tires will be available in all applicable tire sizes on the new model.

The new Passat will be launched as a versatile estate car, known as the Variant in most markets, in the first quarter of 2024. With more than 34 million units sold worldwide, the Passat is the top-selling Volkswagen of all time after the Golf and ahead of the Beetle. The vehicle will be produced in three new plug-in and mild hybrid drives, and five turbocharged petrol and diesel engine versions.

Goodyear boasts an exceptional lineup of tires that will equip the Passat, including the renowned Vector 4Seasons Gen-3, EfficientGrip Performance 2, UltraGrip Performance 3 and Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 models. This range showcases innovative technology which will help complement the powerful aerodynamic design and the high-efficiency drivetrain that Volkswagen promises with the new Passat Variant.

From Goodyear’s all-season range, the Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 has been recognised for its excellent performance in wet conditions, whilst also offering benefits such as improved dry braking and dry handling. The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 and Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 are both summer tires which are long lasting and offer excellent performance and braking on both wet and dry roads. Goodyear’s UltraGrip Performance 3 is a winter tire, designed to provide excellent traction and handling in snowy and icy conditions, as well as on wet roads.

Goodyear has a strong history of working closely with leading car manufacturers to develop tires tailored to specific vehicle models. This commitment to OE tire development aligns perfectly with Volkswagen's vision for the Passat Variant, ensuring owners experience high levels of quality, efficiency and comfort.

Johannes Moll, Managing Director OE Consumer, Goodyear EMEA commented: "We are proud to be selected as one of the original equipment tire providers for the all-new Volkswagen Passat Variant. This partnership underscores Volkswagen's unwavering confidence in Goodyear's tire technology to complement their vehicles. We eagerly anticipate playing a role in delivering the exceptional driving experience that the Passat Variant promises to offer its discerning customers."

The car is fitted with Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3, EfficientGrip Performance 2, UltraGrip Performance 3 and Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 models in the following sizes: 

A new dawn for GT racing begins next weekend as the first round of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) gets underway at the Lusail International Circuit, Qatar. LMGT3 will make its debut appearance with an 18-car grid.

Goodyear is the exclusive tire supplier to LMGT3, which replaces LMGTE in WEC, the pinnacle of endurance racing. The category is based on the existing FIA GT3 platform, which is used in championships across the world. 

LMGT3 brings an exciting grid including nine of the most recognisable manufacturers in GT racing, each competing with two cars. WEC has shifted towards a more accessible model with LMGT3, making for larger GT grids than in previous years.

Nine-time MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi, Le Mans winner Jose Maria Lopez, and F1 Academy driver Doriane Pin are among the talented drivers going for glory this season.

Qatar is one of the most aggressive circuits on the calendar with a high percentage of lateral load. The 16 corners come thick and fast after the lengthy back straight, meaning tire management will be a key component to a successful race strategy, and finding a rhythm around its 5.4km layout will be crucial to finding the best lap in qualifying and executing a consistent stint.

The tires represent an entirely new specification developed in collaboration with the manufacturers and drivers. The result is a tire that reaches its optimum performance quickly without the need of tire warmers, and lasts two or three stints depending on the circuit. 

Mathias Kipp, Goodyear’s Motorsport Sales Manager, previews the first round of the season: “Once again it’s great to be competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship, this time with a different challenge as the sole tire supplier to the new LMGT3 category. We anticipate thrilling racing up and down the field, with Qatar being a great place to get a first taste of LMGT3.

“Operating at the pinnacle of endurance racing allows Goodyear to showcase its technologies and boost the development of our UUHP range of tires for the road. LMGT3 is the perfect motorsport testbed for that activity, as well as putting on a spectacle for passionate fans around the world.”

Schedule (Local time GMT+3):

29th February

FP1 - 12h20

FP2 - 17h30

1st March

FP3 - 11h00

Q1 - 16h00

Q2 - 16h20

Q3 -16h40

Q4 -16h58

2nd March

R - 11h00

Full Qatar 1812 km entry list

Goodyear has announced it will introduce 95 new SKUs for its premium summer tire Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, with a particular focus on sizes 19” and above to further enhance Goodyear’s offering in the market.

The European car market continues to evolve towards SUVs, with the transition to EV and hybrid powertrains accelerating the growth. Goodyear forecasts a compound annual growth rate of 5.5%¹ in the SUV market between 2022 and 2027, which already captured more than half of all European new vehicle sales during the second half of 2022.²

The new sizes will focus on 19 inches and above to accommodate the growth in that segment of the market. New sizes began rolling out in January 2024, with more than 30% of new SKUs including cutting-edge technologies such as Goodyear SoundComfort and SealTech.

Goodyear SoundComfort technology delivers a quieter driving experience, optimizing the tire for EVs. All new sizes are designed to ensure drivers have full confidence in selecting the optimal tires for their vehicle, regardless of its powertrain. 

Meanwhile, several new sizes will feature Goodyear’s SealTech technology. This cutting-edge development automatically seals tire tread punctures up to 5mm in diameter.

In 2023, Goodyear was awarded by the prestigious German magazine Auto Bild “Top Manufacturer of the Year of Summer Tires”³ especially due to the outstanding performance of the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6. Testers from the publication praised its “premium tread pattern with exemplary performance on dry and wet slopes, outstanding mileage”.⁴

Sonia Leneveu, Director Marketing Consumer Europe, Goodyear: “With the growing complexity in the market and the continued rise in demand for SUV fitments, we are glad to be offering our award-winning Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 in its most complete line-up ever.” 

New SKUs 2024

_____________

1. Goodyear data science modelling forecast May 2023
2. ACEA New passenger cars by segment in the EU https://www.acea.auto/figure/new-passenger-cars-by-segment-in-eu/
3. Auto Bild issue 14/23
4. Auto Bild issue 10/23: 50 summer tires tested, size 225/45R18. Test car: BMW 3 Series, Test Winner Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6

The Goodyear Rubber & Tire Company and its UAE exclusive distributor, Swaidan Trading Company LLC continued to strengthen Goodyear brand`s retail presence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with six new Goodyear branded point-of-sale locations in the country in the last 18 months. This reflects Goodyear's commitment to providing high-quality tire solutions to the UAE community and the company’s confidence in the expected growth of the driving population, a demonstration of the local economy’s robustness.

Goodyear now boasts a total of 17 branded point-of-sale locations in the UAE, with many more tire stores also offering the manufacturer’s high-quality products.  This expansion follows last year’s opening of the Goodyear-branded tire and services outlet in Mussafah, Abu Dhabi. The new point-of-sale locations, in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ajman, will serve as convenient hubs for customers to access Goodyear's diverse range of innovative and reliable tire solutions.

"Our expansion in the UAE highlights our dedication to ensure that drivers in this country have ready access to our quality tire products," stated Saban Gungor, General Manager of Middle East, and Africa at Goodyear. "With a strong 125-year legacy of delivering quality tires around the world, and over 40 years in the UAE, Goodyear is committed to empower drivers with the right tires so that they get the best driving experience."

Shameem M.P., General Manager, Allied Division, Swaidan Trading Co. LLC, Al Naboodah Commercial Group, said: "We are thrilled to be part of Goodyear's expansion in the UAE. As a long-time mobility partner for the country, we are committed to working with Goodyear to ensure that the right tires are available at the right time and place for all drivers."

The new point-of-sale locations will feature Goodyear's comprehensive range of tires designed for various vehicle types, including passenger cars, SUVs, light trucks, and commercial vehicles. In addition to providing exceptional tire solutions, Goodyear's point-of-sale locations will offer expert guidance, professional tire fitting services, and comprehensive after-sales support to ensure an exceptional customer experience.

The four Al Rashed Tires fleet technicians will now be able to support fleet customers that are based in the Eastern, Central, Western and Southern  provinces to achieve a more effective operating cost and better return on their investment.  

Goodyear’s TireOptix is an advanced digital tire monitoring solution, designed to allow fleet operators to capture tire data in real-time, accurately and efficiently. The data is then transferred to the TireOptix application, where it’s converted into customized fleet reports that allows fleet operators to implement improvements promptly. The reports also enable fleets to assess more accurately overall tire health and will, in turn, be able to support fleet operators, improve the lifespan of their respective fleet’s tires and enhance operational safety and efficiency. More importantly, this allows fleet operators to move away from manual data collection and accelerate their digital transformation efforts.

Yasser Meyer, CEO of Al Rashed Tires, said: “It is in the company’s DNA to be the successful first mover in everything that we venture into. This collaboration with Goodyear demonstrates our close relationship, which has grown from strength to strength since 2009 when we became their official distributor in the Kingdom. With our fleet technicians now versed in an innovative digital fleet solution like TireOptix, we look forward to cementing our position as the preferred fleet mobility partner in Saudi Arabia.”

Working with Goodyear towards this digital upskilling of their fleet technicians is another milestone in Al Rashed Tires’ own digital transformation. The tire distributor can proudly claim to be a pioneer in the digital retail of tires, commercial and consumer, in Saudi Arabia.

 “As the preferred mobility partner for 125 years around the world, Goodyear stands ready to support our valued partners, such as Al Rashed, in their digital transformation journey,” said Saban Gungor, General Manager of Goodyear MEA. “I even more excited at the expanded potential of how both Goodyear and Al Rashed Tires can support the digital transformation of fleets in the Kingdom.”

Hamzeh Afaneh, Director of Commercial Business, Goodyear MEA, said: “Goodyear’s innovative TireOptix solutions has a proven track record. I am pleased to be working with our partner, Al Rashed Tires, to enable even more fleets in Saudi Arabia to leverage this solution so as to achieve their operational goals.”

In addition to reducing operating costs and maximizing tire life under high ambient temperature, the second generation boasts a minimum of 20% increase in mileage on the steer axle compared to first generation[i].

The team at Goodyear achieved this by optimizing tread arc width and fine-tunning the cavity shape of the tire – all resulting in significant improvement of regular wear. The steer axle is considered the most critical and sensitive for various performance criteria including its impact on safety.  

Saban Gungor, General Manager of Goodyear Middle East & Africa, said, “The highly sophisticated KMAX EXTREME tire range, is yet another demonstration of our successful 125-year legacy of delivering tailored tire products to our customers. The development of this steer tire demonstrates our dedication to improve clients’ performance while keeping up with the constantly evolving market demands.”

Other improvements of the KMAX S EXTREME GEN2 includes a reinforced carcass and the cool running tread compound. Its chemical formulation and physical properties allow it to stay intact even in high ambient temperatures equating to high milage in extremely hot climates such as in GCC and reduced heat generation.

“The KMAX S EXTREME GEN2 steer tire effectively expands the KMAX tire range and further support our fleet customers achieve a better cost per kilometer,” said Hamzeh Afaneh, Director of Commercial Business, Middle East & Africa. “

To develop the KMAX S EXTREME GEN2, the innovation team at Goodyear in Luxembourg gathered feedback across multiple markets in the Gulf, identified improvement areas and tested the newly developed tires with multiple fleets in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

The KMAX Extreme tire range exemplifies Goodyear's commitment to sustainability. The tires are both retreadable and regroovable, enabling fleets to optimize their tire assets and environmental footprint. 
 

[i] Based on local Goodyear field testing in GCC countries.

Goodyear's collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Truck is expanding to include telematics services. The Mercedes-Benz Truck App Portal, renowned for its digital marketplace that equips its vehicles with tailored apps to enhance comfort and operational efficiency, now welcomes the Goodyear DriverHub application as an official partner application. 

Goodyear DriverHub is designed to provide drivers and fleet operators with a continuous stream of accurate tire data, optimizing their tire management practices. Tailored specifically to the needs of drivers, the app offers real-time information sourced from Goodyear's tire management solutions, including Goodyear TPMS, Goodyear CheckPoint, and Goodyear DrivePoint. 

By joining forces with the Mercedes-Benz Truck App Portal, Goodyear equips drivers with additional visibility into tire conditions. Instant alerts and notifications are triggered upon detecting deviations from predetermined tire pressure and temperature levels. Armed with precise information on the affected tire and the degree of urgency, drivers can proactively take targeted actions to reduce breakdowns as well as help support safety and performance on the road. 

"Goodyear is proud to be at the forefront of developing digital tire monitoring solutions by integrating the Goodyear DriverHub application into the Mercedes-Benz Truck App Portal" stated Piotr Czyżyk, Managing Director Proactive Solutions and Fleets Europe at Goodyear. "This integration exemplifies our commitment to driving efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainability in the road transport industry. By seamlessly integrating our tire data insights into the Mercedes-Benz Truck app, we empower drivers and fleet operators to make informed decisions that support optimization of their fleets' operations and contribute to a more sustainable future." 

One of the standouts features of the Goodyear DriverHub is its predictive technology that alerts drivers and fleet operators in case of pressure leaks with ability to detect and differentiate fast or slow leak[1]. This proactive notification allows drivers to take immediate and appropriate actions and connect with the dispatcher for further instructions. The same information can be shared in real-time with fleet operators via mobile app, helping to reduce the likelihood of tire-related incidents and enhancing overall road safety. 

"We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Goodyear in the development of the Goodyear DriverHub app on the Mercedes-Benz Truck App Portal. Together, we're revolutionising the way truck drivers experience the road, combining cutting-edge technology and innovation to ensure safer, more efficient journeys for all. It showcases our dedication to revolutionising the trucking industry, one app at a time." – Antonio Argentieri, Connectivity Product Manager, Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK. 

The integration of the Goodyear DriverHub mobile application into the Mercedes-Benz Truck App Portal represents a transformative step toward creating smarter, more connected fleets. Mercedes-Benz truck drivers can now harness real-time tire condition information to proactively manage tire health, boost efficiency and competitiveness, and embrace sustainability principles. 

[1] Only available with Goodyear TPMS

In addition to high quality tires, Goodyear is also supporting OTEM with its innovative Drivepoint system, enabling the company to optimize its fleet running costs.

A leader in the transport and heavy equipment maintenance service provider sector, OTEM serves numerous regional and international companies in the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) east coast region.

Recognizing the importance of high quality and durable tires to its operations, OTEM awarded a multi-year contract to Swaidan Trading Company (STC), Goodyear’s official distributor in the UAE. As a result, Goodyear tires will make up to almost half of OTEM’s annual tire consumption.

 As part of the contract, Goodyear has installed the yard-based DrivePoint system at OTEM’s fleet deployment yard in Fujairah. Drivepoint is an innovative digital automated tire pressure monitoring system that is designed to reduce, among other things, inaccuracies and labor costs arising from manual checks of tire pressure. Utilizing technology to read sensors which have been installed into fleet vehicle tires, the Goodyear Drivepoint enables OTEM’s fleet managers to get accurate and real-time tire pressure readings every time a vehicle enters or exits the fleet yard.

“This partnership with Goodyear and STC will enable us to achieve real efficiency gains in our operations,” said Engr.Osama Abdul Haleem, Maintenance & Transport Manager, OTEM. “Coupled with the ability to have accurate and up-to-date data on our fleet’s tire health, we have gained a competitive advantage in our deployment process.”

Saban Gungor, General Manager, Goodyear Middle East & Africa, said, “Goodyear has a proud 125-year legacy of delivering high quality tire products to our fleet customers around the world. We continue in our mission to be a trusted mobility partner to fleets like OTEM in the UAE with our expanded proactive tire solution offerings to support their ambition and digital transformation.”

“As a leader in the UAE automotive sector, we are pleased to play a role in supporting OTEM on its growth journey in the country,” said Shameem MP, General Manager of Swaidan Trading – Allied Product Division.

Starting August 1, 2023, customers who purchase a set of four Goodyear passenger or SUV tires with a diameter of 18 inches and above will be automatically enrolled in a six-month tire protection program. This tire protection program is valid for purchases of Goodyear tires made from August 1, 2023 to October 31, 2023. Drivers can avail this special promotion at over 300 points-of-sale across the UAE, including more than 17 Goodyear-branded retail stores and over 180 authorized tire dealers.

Working together with its UAE distributor, Swaidan Trading Company (STC), for this tire protection program, Goodyear's tire protection offers a range of comprehensive benefits to customers, including:

•  6 months of tire protection, safeguarding against damages caused by road hazards.
•  Free puncture repair at certified dealers.
•  A 5-year warranty, reflecting Goodyear's commitment to exceptional quality and durability.

Fatih Baser, Director for Consumer Business, Goodyear Middle East & Africa stated, "Goodyear has a proud tradition that spans 125 years of delivering high quality tires around the world that allow drivers to achieve a smoother journey every single time. In the UAE, we have been enabling mobility for an ever-growing community for 40years.We are thrilled to offer this protection coverage as an additional level of peace of mind to all drivers in the UAE.”

The UAE is the first country within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in which Goodyear is introducing this tire protection program.

Shameem M.P, General Manager - Allied Products, Swaidan Trading Company, added, “We are proud to be partnering Goodyear to offer this protection program, which further demonstrates our joint commitment to further enabling smooth journeys for drivers and passengers."

Goodyear’s tires will be fitted as standard to the highly anticipated Jeep Avenger, which is the first Jeep vehicle which comes in an all-electric version. This significant development aligns perfectly with Goodyear's ‘ready for EV’ strategy, showcasing the company's commitment to providing innovative tire solutions for electric vehicles and the future of sustainable transport. The Jeep Avenger is available to buyers in all European markets as a petrol model, too.

The Jeep Avenger, which has been commercially launched in June 2023, has already sparked tremendous excitement within the automotive industry. By launching it in an all-electric version, Jeep’s commitment to sustainable mobility, as well as its outstanding features and forward-looking design, have earned the distinguished title of ‘European Car of the Year 2023’, the first time ever for a Jeep vehicle. This prestigious accolade further emphasizes the Avenger's exceptional performance and solidifies its position as a game-changer in the B-SUV electric vehicle segment.

Goodyear boasts an exceptional line-up of tires that will equip the Jeep Avenger, including the renowned Vector 4Seasons Gen-3, EfficientGrip Performance 2, and EfficientGrip 2 SUV models. These tire models showcase innovative technology which not only help to reduce noise emissions but also optimize rolling resistance, increasing their sustainability, and making them an excellent choice for electric vehicles. With tire sizes that cover up the Avenger's production range, Goodyear provides an exceptional fit for the remarkable capabilities of this vehicle.

From Goodyear’s all-season range, the Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 has been recognized for its excellent performance in wet conditions, whilst also offering benefits such as shorter dry braking and improved dry handling, making it suitable for use all year round in both dry and wet conditions. The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2 and EfficientGrip 2 SUV are both summer tires which feature a flexible tread that helps to reduce fractures caused by rough road surfaces, resulting in excellent durability. Additionally, the Efficient Grip Performance 2 offers at least 20% more mileage than the next best-tested competitor¹, resulting in a longer life for the tire.

Hans Vrijsen, Managing Director Consumer OE, Goodyear EMEA commented: “Our range of summer and all-season tires makes us uniquely positioned to be selected to supply the ground-breaking Jeep Avenger, the first ever Jeep vehicle to be launched with an all-electric version. Our tires perfectly complement the Avenger's advanced capabilities, showcasing our commitment to delivering innovative solutions for electric vehicles. Together, we are shaping the future of sustainable mobility."

Tire sizes available:

●     Vector 4Seasons Gen-3

○     215/60R17 100V

●     EfficientGrip Performance 2

○     215/55R18 99V XL

●     EfficientGrip 2 SUV

○     215/60R17 96H

_________

¹ 20% per 11,000 km more mileage than next-best tested competitor. Mileage (i. e. until the legal tread wear limit is reached) compared to the four latest designs from competitors in summer HP segment (Michelin Primacy 4, Continental PremiumContact 6, Bridgestone Turanza T005, Pirelli Cinturato P7 Blue). Tested by TÜV SÜD Product Service GmbH in November 2019 by order of Goodyear. Tire size tested: 205/55R16 91V; Test car: VW Golf Mk7; Test location: open roads in central Germany. Report number: 713171748. Full report available at:

https://www.goodyear.eu/content/dam/goodyear/consumer/common/tire-test-reports/TUV_SUD_Tire_Test_2019-Report-No-713171748-01-Goodyear-EfficientGrip-Performance-2-new.pdf

Throughout 2023, a total of 24 new sizes will be available among Goodyear EfficientGrip Cargo 2, Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Cargo and Goodyear UltraGrip Cargo as Goodyear continues to meet the high demands of customers across the summer, all-season and winter markets, offering up to 89% coverage across the seasons. This makes Goodyear’s LCV tire portfolio one of the most complete in the market.

The LCV premium tire market is also expected to grow by 4.2% by 2028, offering constant opportunities to enhance efficiencies with first-class products and solutions¹.

Original equipment

Goodyear is the tire of choice for some of the leading light commercial vehicle OEMs. Recently, Volkswagen selected Goodyear as a tire supplier for the ID.Buzz² and ID.Buzz Cargo³. Elsewhere, Mercedes’ Sprinter⁴ and EQV⁵ models are fitted with the latest Goodyear tires as original equipment across the three seasons.

Goodyear’s portfolio of products meets the highest demands, with proven performance in multiple tire tests, inspiring confidence in fleets and OEMs alike. Auto Bild Reisemobil⁶ wrote highly of the Vector 4Seasons Cargo: "All-round talent with secure road performances in all weather conditions, stable side grip, short braking distances on wet, good comfort.” Meanwhile, Promobil⁷ recommended the tire, describing it as “Very controllable, safe handling behaviour [with] short braking distances and good aquaplaning resistance on wet surfaces.”

Sonia Leneveu, Director Marketing Consumer Europe, Goodyear: “We believe the light commercial vehicle market will continue to grow throughout this decade, so Goodyear continues to innovate, with dedicated technologies for this specific segment. By using premium tires that offer reliability and durability, fleets can achieve cost savings through reduced downtime. In particular, our all-season solution in Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Cargo means fleets in many parts of Europe can be sure they have the right tire for the conditions, all year round.”

______________

(1)       SCOPE: Europool, Europe including Russia, excluding Turkey. Growth assumptions are based on internal MRI data (Oct. 2022)

(2)      VW ID.Buzz (VW418): 235/60R18 103T UG PERF + (+) ST (FRONT); 255/55R18 105T UG PERF + (+) ST (REAR); 235/50R20 104T UG PERF + (+) ST (FRONT); 265/45R20 108T UG PERF + (+) ST (REAR)

(3)      VW ID.BuzzCargo (VW418): 235/60R18 103T F1 ASY5 (+) (FRONT); 255/55R18 105 T F1 ASY5 (+) (REAR); 235/60R18 103T VEC 4SEAS G3 (+) ST (FRONT); 255/55R18 105T VEC 4SEAS G3 (+) ST (REAR)

(4)      Mercedes Sprinter (VS30): 195/75R16C 107R EFGRIP CARGO

(5)      Mercedes EQV (VS20): 245/55R17 106H XL F1AS5 MOV; 245/55R17 106H XL UG PERF+ MOV

(6)      Auto Bild reisemobil issue 4/2020

(7)      Promobil issue 10/2020

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has announced the appointment of Mahmut Sarioglu as Vice President to lead its business in the Emerging Markets region, which includes Middle East & Africa, South Africa and Turkey.

Sarioglu joined Goodyear in 2012, where he first headed the company’s Commercial tire unit in Turkey. He then went on to lead Goodyear’s Turkey operations from 2018 as its Managing Director where he grew the business substantially.

Trained as an electrical engineer, Sarioglu began his career with ABB as a Sales Engineer in 1996. Moving up the ladder within various multinationals such as 3M and GE before joining Goodyear, Sarioglu is acknowledged as an innovative business leader with solid managerial and leadership experience within Sales, Marketing and Business Development functions.

As Vice President of Emerging Markets, Sarioglu will assume responsibility for driving strategic growth of Goodyear’s business in key market segments in the various countries.

Sarioglu said: “I look forward to drive the Goodyear promise of Enabling Mobility with our key partners by ensuring that the right Goodyear tire solutions are available at the right place and right time for all our customers across the Emerging Markets.” 

Leveraging high quality Goodyear tires, Masafi, the leading provider of bottled water and beverages in the UAE, has increased its last-mile delivery efficiency in an effective manner across the country.

The Goodyear tires that are fitted onto Masafi's fleet of light trucks boast a higher load index, and has the ability to withstand 100kg more load per tire when compared to competitor premium tire brands. At six wheels per truck, the Goodyear tires will enable each truck to carry more than a half ton more quality products in every delivery.

In addition to the tires, Goodyear, and its local distributor, Swaidan Trading Company (STC), is value-adding to Masafi's operations by leveraging the tire manufacturer’s advanced Tire Optix inspection solution. This cutting-edge digital technology is deployed daily by a dedicated STC technician to check the tires of  Masafi trucks. This provides Masafi with up-to-date data on tire conditions through a digital fleet condition dashboard. With this vital information, Masafi is empowered to make informed decisions and optimize its fleet's performance while acquiring the ability to deliver more products per truckload. By reducing the risk of tire incidents during deliveries to a minimum, the tag team of Goodyear digital technology and the STC tire technician ensure that, as a customer, Masafi acquires a peace of mind with the seamless delivery experience, from dispatch to point-of-sale.

Saood Al Ghurair, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Masafi stated, "This partnership with Goodyear and STC are key in enhancing our operational efficiency in an effective manner. Coupled with the ability to have up-to-date data into the condition of our fleet tires, we have gained a competitive edge in optimizing our delivery process. This ensures that we are able to deliver the quality products our customers expect on time, every time."

Saban Gungor, General Manager for Goodyear’s Middle East & Africa operations said, "Goodyear has a proud 125-year legacy of delivering high-quality tire solutions to our customers. We are proud to be partnering with a pioneering industry leader, like Masafi, to fulfill their mission of keeping UAE residents hydrated. Our digital tire solutions are ready to enable our customers to transform their enterprise journeys with confidence."

Shameem MP, General Manager of Swaidan Trading – Allied Product Division said, "By combining our local automotive expertise and Goodyear's leading global solutions, we are honored to play a part in enabling Masafi's growing success in the UAE.”

One hundred years makes the occasion extra special. That was the feeling as the media, guests and engineers left the grid ahead of the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans. Familiar with the usual pageantries, but with the added landmark of Goodyear’s 125th anniversary, the atmosphere around the circuit was alert to the sense of anticipation.

Inter Europol Competition claimed a popular victory in the LMP2 class with 328 laps completed. Its drivers, Jakub Smiechowski, Albert Costa and Fabio Scherer, took the #34 car to the checkered flag 53.8 seconds ahead of Team WRT’s #41 car.

Goodyear at Le Mans

Goodyear serviced a total of 24 teams in the LMP2 category with an around-the-clock operation that ensured teams had the right tires at the right time.

The Goodyear slick tire is designed to handle the variation of the entire World Endurance Championship. This is the second year that Goodyear has provided a single spec of slick tires to LMP2 teams in which drivers can push across up to four stints. 

The tire is optimised to work in a broad range of temperatures. In addition, Goodyear’s wet tire provided drivers with versatility and confidence when the rain came down during the first few hours of the race.

This year, the fuel tank sizes of LMP2 cars has been increased, meaning a stint length is now roughly 10% further than in previous years. During one of the fastest stints, Team WRT in the hands of Robin Frijns set its quickest lap on his penultimate lap before coming into the pits, highlighting tire performance consistency.

LMP2: Story of the race

The race started under variable conditions. A downpour in the hour leading up to the race left the track wet on the Mulsanne Straight, but largely dry elsewhere. 

With just under three hours of the race completed, a heavy downpour changed the complexion of the race. Goodyear engineers worked with teams to react to the weather and optimise pitstop strategies. A mix of yellow flags, slow zones and safety cars punctuated the early running, prompting pitstops and strategy changes. 

From the middle of the night, the Inter Europol and Team WRT teams were engaged in a heated battle for the lead, reflective of the close racing in LMP2, where all teams are using the same tire, engine and chassis manufacturers.

Ben Crawley, Goodyear EMEA Motorsport Director: “Le Mans has been an overwhelming success for Goodyear, with a huge operation in the paddock and supporting teams trackside. Building on Goodyear’s success in endurance racing, we have given the teams a durable and high-performing platform suitable for the highly competitive category. Our motorsport and road programs share the same set of challenges when it comes to designing a tire that will not fade in performance across its lifespan.”

Goodyear ushers in new tire tech with Garage 56 

This year’s Garage 56 entry involved a significant contribution from Goodyear, collaborating with NASCAR, Hendrick Motorsport and Chevrolet to bring a NASCAR back to Le Mans for the first time in almost half a century. 

This unique car utilised a wider Goodyear tire range than the LMP2 teams with bespoke dry, wet and intermediate options. The project was an overwhelming success, with the Camaro ZL1 completing 285 laps and finishing ahead of many of the experienced LMGTE category teams.

A state-of-the-art cured-in tire pressure monitoring sensor (TPMS) has been developed by Goodyear for this project that tracks temperature and pressure in real-time. This helped the team monitor the tire pressure and temperature closer than ever before. 

Its fastest lap time was a 3m 50.5s, comparable to the fastest time set by the LMGTE class. The pace of the car all weekend was extremely impressive, highlighting the quality of the team.

Justin Fantozzi, Goodyear Garage 56 Program Manager: “The passive cured-in tire TPMS sensors performed without a miss throughout the event. We’re able to monitor the tire pressures and temperatures in real-time. During the race, we were able to alert the team of a possible puncture, which allowed a quick reaction to bring the car to the pits. The team was able to react to what they saw in the data and pit for new tires.” 

Chad Knaus, Hendrick Motorsports VP of Operations: “The collaboration with Goodyear on this project has been an invaluable component of the operation. Given the nature of the Garage 56 entry, not only did we need a tire partner with knowledge of both NASCAR and endurance racing, but also the commitment to develop the range of bespoke tires we need to compete at the highest level.”

The next round of the FIA World Endurance Championship is the 6 Hours of Monza.

When the French Tricolore is held aloft ahead of this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans, a very special car will be among the usual suspects. A Next Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will officially represent the Garage 56 entry. 

The Garage 56 entry is a partnership between NASCAR, Hendrick Motorsports, Chevrolet and Goodyear – each among the most successful teams, manufacturers and tires in the sport’s 75-year history - and reunites NASCAR with Le Mans for the first time in almost five decades. Goodyear is proud to be a key partner of this exciting program.

In 1976 two NASCAR cars entered the historic race, but while the Ford Torino and Dodge Charger of that era bear only a subtle resemblance to the modern crop of stock cars that includes the 2023 Next Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, both eras of NASCAR cars were gripped by Goodyear tires.

This almost five-decade span since NASCAR cars last raced at Le Mans demonstrates Goodyear’s extensive global experience in both NASCAR and endurance racing. Goodyear has been instrumental in returning NASCAR to the Circuit de la Sarthe, developing bespoke tires fit for the unique challenge.

NASCAR is the most popular American motorsport series, with multiple categories and races almost every weekend between February and November. Viewership figures peak at over 8 million, and this year the Daytona 500 experienced its highest viewing figure share in recent years at 15.16%¹.  

NASCAR vs Le Mans: The key differences for Goodyear     

Compared to NASCAR, the scale of the 24 Hours of Le Mans is on another level. The Garage 56 entry could eclipse the distance of NASCAR’s longest race, the Coca-Cola 600, seven times over should it complete more than 310 laps. In 2022, LMP2 winner Team JOTA covered 369 laps (5028 km) on Goodyear tires. 

Additionally, changing weather conditions and maintaining the car for a full 24 hours means drivers have to navigate a full spectrum of visibility and temperatures. Like NASCAR, Le Mans features pitstops that can make or break a strong race result. Engineers will formulate different strategies during the race to maximize their position compared to competitors. 

In 2022, NASCAR and Goodyear introduced 18-inch tires, bringing it in line with championships like the World Endurance Championship. A vast amount of research and planning went into the tire development process for NASCAR’s ovals and road courses. This gave a foundation for Garage 56’s development path, merging Goodyear’s decades of experience in NASCAR and endurance racing.  

At Le Mans, LMP2 Goodyear tires are designed to last several hours across multiple fuel stops. LMP2 tires are designed with a harder compound to provide a longer duration for the teams to maximize their tires as part of their racing strategy. By regulation, NASCAR racing requires that Goodyear tires last around 160 kilometers to ensure drivers make tire changes during pitstops. Meanwhile, an LMP2 tire can complete up to four stints at Le Mans, the equivalent of 600 kilometers. 

While pitstops are a natural part of racing at Le Mans, teams generally prefer to complete as few as possible while maintaining a competitive pace. This is because WEC regulations restrict teams to having only two personnel touching the car at once, resulting in a greater time penalty for changing two or four tires at a stop.

“The presence of the Garage 56 entry is the merger of two flagship Goodyear projects,” says Ben Crawley, Director of Motorsport EMEA, Goodyear. “The technical challenge of developing bespoke tires for the Garage 56 entry to tackle Le Mans combines two areas of excellence for Goodyear. Months of development and preparation have gone into this project. Many components are at the cutting edge of technology and we cannot wait to see the car on track and the Goodyear tire technology supporting its performance."

^{(1) Sports Media Watch: No crash, but caution flag out for Daytona 500 ratings https://www.sportsmediawatch.com/2023/02/daytona-500-ratings-viewership-decline-fox/}
 

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company today introduced racing tires with the first real-time intelligence capability to record tire pressure and temperature to be featured on the NASCAR Next Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Garage 56 entry in this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans to be held on June 10 – 11, 2023. 

The Goodyear Racing tires are outfitted with an innovative passive, non-battery, sensor cured into the tire during production. This sensor is powered by Goodyear Sightline, Goodyear’s intelligent technology that will provide real-time tire data to Hendrick Motorsports as the race unfolds. Engineers and drivers will be able to leverage the tire intelligence data to understand tire pressure and temperature to optimize the vehicle’s performance by adjusting the car and driver settings in real-time. 

“Because tires are a vehicle’s only connection to the road, they have the potential to provide tremendous real-time insight that improves the performance of drivers under the most grueling of conditions. Goodyear is extremely proud to have the tire intelligence to unlock this potential in motorsports, and it’s been a privilege to partner with NASCAR, Hendrick Motorsports and Chevrolet on this Garage 56 entry,” said Rich Kramer, Goodyear’s chairman, CEO & president. 

Beyond the tire intelligence application, Goodyear has also engineered three types of tires for the NASCAR Next Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Garage 56 entry to withstand any potential weather conditions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, including: 

• Racing tires for dry conditions that help provide high levels of endurance and grip allowing the car to compete for the full 24 hours of Le Mans race;  
• Intermediate wet tires for mist to light rain conditions to help the car perform at its maximum potential in inclement weather; and 
• Full wet tires for heavy rains featuring a unique tread design and tire construction to help channel water out of the tire surface’s contact patch while using a softer tread compound to help maintain grip when the temperature of the racetrack is cooler.  

All of the Goodyear tires for the NASCAR Next Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Garage 56 entry were built by hand in Akron, Ohio, at Goodyear’s Innovation Center Manufacturing plant, Goodyear’s premier race tire production facility. 

Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, former 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Mike Rockenfeller, and 2009 Formula One world champion Jenson Button will share the driver’s seat of the NASCAR Next Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. The drivers and multiple engineers have evaluated the Goodyear tires at ten tests over eight sites in the past 12 months, resulting in more than 7,500 miles tested in preparation for the ultimate endurance race.

The Garage 56 entry is a partnership between NASCAR, Hendrick Motorsports, Chevrolet and Goodyear – the winningest team, manufacturer and tire in the sport’s 75-year history. Garage 56 is a special single-entry class set aside from the race organizers for concept cars that demonstrate innovative technology of the future. In addition to the Garage 56 entry at 24 Hours of Le Mans, Goodyear is also the exclusive tire supplier for the Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2) class.  

These innovative tires are the latest in the long tradition of Goodyear’s leadership in technology. Since 1898, Goodyear has been enabling mobility and continues to stay More Driven. This year, Goodyear celebrates its 125-year anniversary by continuing to deliver the products and services that move the world. Visit our Corporate Website to learn more.  

In the FIA World Endurance Championship, Goodyear provides each team with a tire performance engineer who works exclusively with a racing team to maximize its performance, often across multiple seasons. 

The essence of the relationship between tire engineer and driver is unique, and rarely replicated anywhere else in the world of sport. Drivers rely on their team to give accurate information to help them navigate the gigabytes of data that power a modern endurance operation.

One example of this is LMP2 driver Gabriel ‘Gabi’ Aubry from racing team Vector Sport and Goodyear track support engineer David Billingham. They discuss the working dynamic within the inner sanctum of a modern racing team. 

“It’s a crucial element to what we do as a team and how I’m able to perform as a driver,” explains Aubry, who first raced at Le Mans in 2018. This year, he’s undertaking a full WEC season with the Vector Sport team.

“The Goodyear partnership helps us understand how to develop the right setup and race strategy. The engineer and driver partnership is vital. It helps us understand the tires so we can extract maximum performance across a stint and race.”

It’s striking how enthusiastic Gabi is when talking about the value of a dedicated Goodyear engineer. “It’s a triangulation between driver, team engineer and Goodyear. With the lack of tire warmers at rounds other than Le Mans this year, it’s been a significant shift, particularly in qualifying, to how we approach delivering the maximum. The approach to warmup is now more important.

The Goodyear engineer who works with Vector Sport is David Billingham, who has worked with racing teams for the last 20 years. He explains the task of delivering performance: “During a race, an engineer will be sat in the garage listening to all the radio communications between the driver and chief engineer. We can tell how the car is behaving through the live telemetry from the car during the course of the stint. When it comes to pitstops, we also advise whether none, two or all four tires should be changed.

“Tire temperature and pressure are particularly important when the car is out on track. That, combined with driver feedback, is what we use to evaluate vehicle performance.” 

When a tire returns after a session, David will analyze the tread and carcass to determine its capabilities on a given track surface and condition. This informs the team of the optimal stint length. “At Le Mans, teams could run three or four fuel stints on a set of tires. That saves the team valuable seconds in the pitlane, but they need the conviction that the set will remain competitive.”

Goodyear tires’ “huge operating window”

Both Gabriel and David praised the performance of Goodyear’s latest specification of dry and wet tires, with just a single spec used for the entirety of the WEC season. “Goodyear has developed a really impressive tire with a huge operating window,” says Gabi. “A few years ago, three compounds were required to cover an entire season, now we only need one.”

David echoes that sentiment: “The biggest impact we’ve seen is the additional challenge the driver faces. On a damp track, with only a single slick and full wet available, that’s quite a challenge for drivers to go from a tire that’s designed for one extreme wet condition to a tire that’s suitable for dry running. The tires can operate across the full spectrum of track temperatures we see throughout the year, and can get up to temperature quickly.”

When the cars line up to begin the centenary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans on Saturday 10th June, it’ll be down to the thousands of hours of preparation and setup. This extends to Goodyear, the exclusive tire supplier of the LMP2 category.

Le Mans demands the most planning and resources of the season. Every team requires significantly more to run without issues for 24 hours. For example, on its way to victory in 2022, Team Jota covered 369 laps (5,028 km), or the equivalent of over 16 Formula 1 Grand Prix distances.

Over the last few seasons, Goodyear has worked to lower the overall number of tires used each weekend. This is, in part, by broadening the operating window of both slick and wet tires. This mirrors the development of Goodyear’s award-winning range of road tires, which are designed to handle the full range of summer, winter or all-season conditions.  

Over the course of the weekend, over 2,500 tires will be used, which are carried on 10 trucks from the Goodyear manufacturing plant in Hanau, Germany, to Le Mans. More than 65 Goodyear team members travel to Le Mans to support teams.

In addition to the usual Le Mans spectacle, this year Goodyear is also involved in the Garage 56 project that, alongside Hendrick Motorsport and Chevrolet, sees NASCAR return to Le Mans for the first time since 1976. The project has required a bespoke tire development program which brings together Goodyear’s expertise in both endurance racing and NASCAR.

Development work for Garage 56 has taken place on two continents with multiple teams of engineers. Over the course of 10 tests in the last 12 months, almost 10,000 km has been covered in preparation for Le Mans.

Paddock support: An around-the-clock operation

The job doesn’t end when the tires arrive at the circuit. Goodyear’s dedicated team of fitters service tires around the clock to ensure teams have their allocated sets on time. More than a week before the race, Goodyear engineers set up the fitting areas in the paddock. Each team must receive their tires at the correct time ready for inspection and final inflation. 

Tires are shuttled from the fitting area to the garages ready to be fitted to the cars. Once used tires are returned to Goodyear, a select number are analysed at the fitting area before being recycled.

Each team is allocated six sets of slick tires for practice, and 14 sets for the race and qualifying. The number of wet tires is unrestricted. Dedicated tire engineers from Goodyear are embedded into each team to look after all tire requirements, often working with the same team for the whole season. The support Goodyear engineers provide extends to advising teams on the best setup, and giving guidance on race strategy.

To keep track of tire usage, the latest Radio Frequency Identification Tag (RFID) technology is installed inside each tire. This helps quality control and ensures tires are in the right place at the right time. Goodyear has been instrumental in the development and introduction of RFID, as the first tire manufacturer to introduce the technology in motorsport in 2008. 

Ben Crawley, Director of Motorsport EMEA, Goodyear: “The preparation for Le Mans is the largest undertaking of the season, with planning starting months in advance. Every member of the Goodyear team shares a passion for racing, which is why we’ve been able to continue to deliver innovation. While it’s also the most demanding in terms of each team’s requirements, the grid is typically much larger than an average WEC event because we also welcome teams from the European Le Mans Series (ELMS). We are delighted to be continuing to support this expanded grid for the most iconic race on the calendar.

“Our team of tire fitters, engineers and wider support team all work in harmony to make each event an operational success. When it comes to the challenges of Le Mans, the expert Goodyear team is ready for anything.”

To further support fleet customers achieve even higher operating efficiency, Goodyear Middle East & Africa (MEA) will roll out “TireOptix^TM”, an advanced digital tire monitoring solution, across various major fleets in Egypt. These fleets ply the major supply routes on a daily basis in the country, ensuring that daily necessities and other supplies reach end-consumers.

The advanced tire monitoring system will be implemented onto a total of 550 trucks across the various fleets. Utilizing mobile tools, the system is  designed to allow fleet operators to capture tire data accurately and efficiently, which is transferred to the TireOptix^TM application. The TireOptix^TM application will convert the data into a customized fleet reports that allows fleet operators to implement improvements promptly. The reports also enable fleets to assess more accurately overall tire health and will, in turn, be able to support fleet operators improve the lifespan of their respective fleet’s tires and enhance operational safety and efficiency.

Goodyear will also support with upskilling technicians with TireOptix^TM monitoring training and knowledge at the fleets which are adopting this cutting-edge technology. The fleets are Al Magd Group Investments, Capital Star for Supply,Trade and Transportation, Ebad Elrahman for Transportation Services and International company for services – Road Master.

Hamzah Afaneh, Director, Commercial Business, Goodyear MEA, said "We are thrilled to further support our fleet customers’ digital transformation with Goodyear’s TireOptix technology solutions. I am confident that our solution will be able to help our customers achieve efficiency in their operations and ensure that they achieve their business goals."

The 24 Hours of Le Mans has created many golden moments for the Goodyear family of brands, holding the record of 49 overall combined victories for Goodyear, Dunlop and Avon. The 100th anniversary of the endurance classic coincides with another momentous milestone; the 125th anniversary of Goodyear. From truck racing to NASCAR, from Formula 1 to Le Mans, Goodyear has had a deep involvement in global motorsport for much of this time, including accolades such as more Formula 1 wins than any other tire manufacturer, an impressive run of outright wins at Le Mans, and a record-breaking partnership with NASCAR. 

Le Mans glory

The magic of Hollywood brought the 1966 ‘Ford vs Ferrari’ battle to the big screen recently. The captivating story of Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon taking victory in a race that put Ford on the global motorsport map, driven by Ford leadership’s desire to beat Ferrari. The fact that Ford switched to Goodyear during the race brought additional spice to the story, emphasizing how crucial tire performance is at Le Mans.

But it was a year earlier that Goodyear took its first Le Mans win, fitted to a Ferrari. The North American Racing Team (NART), run by US Ferrari importer and three-time Le Mans winner Luigi Chinetti, chose American Goodyear tires and this played a role in the outcome. Despite losing an hour in the pits with electrical issues, the pace of Masten Gregory and Jochen Rindt moved them relentlessly up the order. It was the first win by a privateer since 1957 and the first Le Mans victory for Goodyear tires, in the same year that Goodyear entered Formula 1.

1965 Tire Tech: Goodyear tires had a distinctive tread pattern in this era. It wasn’t just for all-weather performance, but it gave the driver more progressive feedback in an era when downforce was lower, and cars could drift gracefully. 

After winning with Ferrari and Ford, four years later Goodyear played an important role in Porsche’s first Le Mans win. The legendary German car brand clinched its first Le Mans in 1970, when the svelte 917K took a dominant win by five laps. Hans Herrmann and Dickie Attwood were piloting the fearsome Porsche, tamed by a bespoke Goodyear tire design in a race of ever-changing weather.

1970 Tire Tech: The bias ply design had an inherent advantage for racing due to its ease of car control at the limit of adhesion. Tuning this Goodyear tire for the 917K started a close relationship between Porsche and Goodyear for the next era of endurance racing.

Goodyear then became the dominant tire of Le Mans, taking eight wins in the decade that followed. Matra Simca powered to glory three times on Goodyear, using Le Mans to show the might of the French automotive industry on home ground. One of those wins was particularly special for Graham Hill. The 1962 and 1968 Formula 1 World Champion was still a Grand Prix regular, but there was another goal that kept his ambition burning. Five Monaco wins and his 1966 Indy win meant the ‘Triple Crown’, adding a Le Mans win to his legacy, was within reach. It was on his tenth and final 24 Hours attempt when, partnered with Le Mans legend Henri Pescarolo, he won for Matra on Goodyear tires.

The Monaco Grand Prix, 24 Hours of Le Mans and Indianapolis 500. Three of the biggest sporting events in the world. To win all three proves a driver’s versatility, but only Hill has managed to achieve the Triple Crown. From a tire industry perspective, all three iconic events have been won many times on Goodyear, underlining the scale of the company’s global motorsport history.

A legend of Le Mans is Jacky Ickx, and Goodyear was chosen for his first win with Mirage in 1975 and the start of his winning streak with Porsche a year later.

1970s Tire Tech: In both F1 and sports car racing, engineers discovered a magic formula called downforce. Aerospace innovations thrust the pace forward, including the upturned wings that forced a car’s tires into the ground, massively improving cornering grip. The forces were unlike anything a racing tire manufacturer had experienced before, but Goodyear moved up a gear to respond. Slicks replaced treaded tires and the contact patch now matched the downforce levels. 

The 1980s saw the introduction of the Group C formula. Enormous tunnels under the car, with a vacuum-creating ‘venturi’ effect further increased the downforce. Iconic cars such as the Porsche 956 and 962 won on Goodyear in sports car events around the world, and 1990 brought a Le Mans win with Jaguar. The epic seven-litre V12 powered the Jaguar to 368 km/h (229 mph) which, coupled with F1 levels of downforce, brought new opportunities for Goodyear to introduce technology already proven on its road tires. 

1980s Tire Tech: Radial tire construction was adopted for Goodyear racing tires. The move to larger diameter wheels in endurance racing reflected the trend in roadgoing supercars, and the massive downforce required incredibly precise handling from a tire that could withstand the immense forces generated in fast corners. 

Goodyear’s success record with Porsche continued through to the nineties, with three further victories including another legend, Tom Kristensen, taking his first win with Goodyear and Porsche in 1997. Goodyear then focused on NASCAR and other categories of racing, before returning to endurance racing in 2020 in the LMP2 category.

Today’s Tire Tech: Back in 1997, Goodyear brought special tires for qualifying and a range of possible race conditions. It showcased innovation and ambition in an era of excess and bottomless manufacturer budgets. Last year, Jota won the LMP2 class at Le Mans, with less power than the 1997 overall winner using a single dry specification of Goodyear tire giving versatile performance whatever the temperature. They went 108 km further in 24 hours than the 1997 overall winner, on less fuel and on fewer tires, demonstrating LMP2 is a more sustainable form of racing, making it such a relevant challenge for Goodyear.  

Beyond Le Mans: Global success, born in the USA

From the dawn of motoring, Goodyear considered that motorsport is a place to learn and develop something that remains true today and at the core of Goodyear Racing’s philosophy. Goodyear’s first foray into racing, and its first victory, came when Henry Ford chose Goodyear for his car that won a Detroit Driving Club race in 1901. 

In the 1919 Indianapolis 500, the 100 mph barrier was broken by Howdy Wilcox, who took his Peugeot to victory on Goodyear. Another eight of the top ten finishers used the Akronmade tires. Two of the drivers completed the 500 miles on one set of Goodyear tires, reflecting the drive for performance and durability that is core to Goodyear’s principles. 

From NASCAR to the world

In the 1950s, Goodyear stormed into the stock car arena with the huge growth of the championship now known as NASCAR. The first Daytona 500 win was in 1960, and by 1962 more NASCAR race winners chose Goodyear than any other tire. 

In Formula 1, Richie Ginther put the Goodyear name in the winning record books in the same year as Gregory and Rindt did the same at Le Mans. Tire manufacturers vied for honors in the period that followed, making tire development as key to success as engine and chassis technology. In 1971 and 1973, Jackie Stewart and Tyrrell worked closely with Goodyear to dominate in this fearsome era. Stewart retired at the end of 1973 but worked closely with Goodyear to develop road tires for many years after. 

From 1973 to 1977, in a period of open tire competition, every Grand Prix was won on Goodyear. Emerson Fittipaldi, Niki Lauda and James Hunt joined Goodyear’s world championship winners’ hall of fame. Into the 1980s, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna were Goodyear’s turbo titans in an era of searing power and bitter driver rivalries. Into the 1990s, Michael Schumacher was the master, taking his first two championships in a Goodyear-shod Benetton before the all-conquering Williams team wrapped up Goodyear’s three decades of F1 domination with titles for Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve.  

Between 1965 and 1998, Goodyear amassed 368 Formula 1 Grand Prix victories, a record that still stands today. Now, Goodyear competes in a range of intensely competitive international championships, from the FIA World Endurance Championship, featuring the 24 Hours of Le Mans, to the FIA European Truck Racing Championship. The NASCAR partnership continues as one of the longest lasting sporting co-operations in history, with Goodyear having been a trusted partner for almost seven decades. The 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans brings together Goodyear’s worlds of NASCAR and Le Mans with the innovative Garage 56 project.

Goodyear’s Le Mans Hall of Fame

Goodyear’s Greatest Motorsport Moments 

1901 Goodyear’s first foray into racing, and its first victory, came when Henry Ford chose Goodyear for his car that won a Detroit Driving Club race

1913 Charlie Stutz used Goodyear experimental tires to take the podium in the Indianapolis 500 

1919 The 100 mph barrier was broken at Indianapolis by Howdy Wilcox, who took his Peugeot to victory on Goodyear

1954 Goodyear begins racing with NASCAR

1960 The first Daytona 500 win on Goodyear 

1960 Goodyear won its first international sports car race with Stirling Moss and Maserati at the Grand Prix of Cuba.

1965 Goodyear enters Formula 1, winning the Mexican GP with Richie Ginther and Honda.

1965 Goodyear’s first Le Mans win, with Ferrari

1965 Craig Breedlove's rocket powered car, on Goodyear, becomes the first land based vehicle to surpass 600 mph. 

1966 Goodyear wins its first Formula 1 world championship with Jack Brabham

1966 The iconic Ford GT40 wins with Goodyear at Le Mans '66

1970 Porsche wins its first Le Mans with the legendary 917 and Goodyear

1970 Goodyear wins at the Nürburgring Nordschleife for the first time as Vic Elford and Kurt Ahrens win for Porsche

1973 Every Formula 1 Grand Prix is won on Goodyear

1976 Goodyear and NASCAR race at Le Mans

1987 Gerhard Berger collects Goodyear's 200th F1 Grand Prix victory when he wins in Adelaide

1991 Ayrton Senna and McLaren win at Interlagos and give Goodyear its 250th F1 Grand Prix victory

1994 Damon Hill and Williams take Goodyear’s 300th F1 Grand Prix win at Barcelona

1997 Jacques Villeneuve wins Goodyear’s 350th F1 Grand Prix win at Barcelona

2020 Goodyear returns to Le Mans

2020 Goodyear appointed tire partner to the British and World Touring Car Championships

2022 The pinnacle of truck racing becomes the FIA Goodyear European Truck Racing Championship

2023 NASCAR races at Le Mans for the first time since 1976, with Goodyear

2023 Goodyear selected as LMGT3 supplier for the FIA World Endurance Championship and European Le Mans Series from 2024

With the trend towards larger and more powerful vehicles, like SUVs and EVs, consumer demand has shifted toward premium tires with a proven record for delivering high performance and efficiency.

The new UltraGrip Performance 3 reduces the complexity of the winter portfolio. The tire enters the market as the successor for both the UltraGrip 9+ and UltraGrip Performance+. By September 2023 it will be available in a comprehensive line-up in 94 sizes from 14 to 21 inches, to fit a wider range of passenger cars, compatible for internal combustion engine, electric and hybrid vehicles.

A consumer study conducted by Buzzback¹ on behalf of Goodyear found that the most important benefit of a winter tire was its ability to perform well in all winter conditions, on snow, wet and dry roads. This has driven Goodyear to deliver a versatile tire with an even more balanced winter performance than the already awarded predecessor.

Cutting edge technologies for leading performance

With a range of innovative features, Goodyear sets performance benchmarks. A recent test conducted by the independent German test authority TUEV Sued confirms that, compared to four premium competitors, UltraGrip Performance 3 leads in snow handling, wet braking and dry braking.²

The new Goodyear winter tire is based on latest technologies which take its performance to a next level. Special features make it a perfect fit for a wide variety of vehicles, including powerful EVs.

Snow Protect Technology provides increased sipe density offering a multitude of gripping edges for optimal traction and grip. In addition, “snow claws”, longer grooves at the shoulder edge, improve performance on soft and deep snow.

Wet Braking+ Technology with an optimised round footprint provides better water dispersion. Water is pushed to the side rather than to the front, which reduces the risk of aquaplaning and offers excellent performance in wet driving conditions.

Innovative 3D sipes in the shoulder part increase tire stiffness and improve performance on dry roads.

Thanks to special tire features which improve efficiency and reduce interior noise, UltraGrip Performance 3 winter tire is also EV-ready. Rolling resistance has been reduced by up to 3%³, and tire weight by up to 10%³ across the range. In addition, a more aerodynamic sidewall shape reduces turbulence and improves airflow.

Besides, a new noise cancelling pattern design reduces interior noise by up to 36% (up to 2 dBA) across the range.³  Goodyear’s SoundComfort Technology will be added in the future line-up resulting in a noise reduction of up to 50% (up to 4 dBA).⁴

To cope with the extreme torque of electric cars, UltraGrip Performance 3 offers an innovative wear resistant tread compound, while 3D sipes provide more stability to stand the stronger forces.

UltraGrip Performance 3 fits amongst the latest and most popular vehicles in the market, such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A6/S6, BMW i4 M50, BMW 4-series Gran Coupé, Cupra Formentor, Tesla Model S Plaid or Smart #1, Toyota Aygo X or Volvo C40/XC40.

Sonia Leneveu, Director Marketing Consumer Europe, Goodyear: “We are excited to introduce the excellent UltraGrip Performance 3 to our trade partners, providing them with an outstanding product for all customers, and which simplifies their product portfolio.”

Comprehensive line-up covers 94 SKUS with 13 new sizes

________________

(1) Buzzback Winter Tire Exploratory: Claims Evaluation report, 2022

(2) Compared to the next best tested competitor. Tested against four latest designs from main competitors in winter high-performance segment (Bridgestone BlizzakLM005, Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2, 
Continental WinterContactTS 870, Michelin Alpin 6). Tested by TÜV SÜD Product Service GmbH in December 2021 – February 2022 by order of Goodyear. Tire size tested: 205/55 R16. Test car: VW Golf VIII, Test location: Goodyear Arctic Center Saariselkä. Goodyear Proving Grounds Mireval. Report number: 713234277-BM
Full details of the test report can be found at https://www.goodyear.eu/en_gb/consumer/tire-test-reports.html.

(3) Compared to predecessor UG Performance +

(4) Depending on the type of vehicle, its speed and road surface. Based on internal vehicle road measurements, tested February 2018, January 2018, November 2017 and October 2011 by Goodyear engineers in Luxembourg. Tyre size: 225/55R17 on VW Passat Alltrack and Ford Kuga and 255/45R18 on Audi A7.

The appointment comes as a result of the tender launched by the FIA and the ACO last December and was approved by members of the FIA World Motor Sport Council via electronic vote.

The new highly-anticipated class is set to replace WEC’s current LMGTE Am and ELMS’ LMGTE categories next year. The field will include some of the most recognisable and desirable sports car brands on the planet, so it is bound to become a fan favourite, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. From a technical perspective, the combination of front, mid and rear-engined cars will create close racing and an interesting development challenge for Goodyear. 

Goodyear will develop brand new tires for the category, using its wealth of experience in international GT3 and GTE categories. In endurance racing, Goodyear is currently the exclusive supplier to the LMP2 category in WEC and both LMP2 and LMGTE in ELMS. The addition of LMGT3 to Goodyear’s portfolio strengthens its position within international motorsport.

Development is already underway, with several tests planned throughout 2023 in Europe and North America. Goodyear will use a variety of circuits to develop and evaluate the tire before it enters competition, with a focus on some of the most demanding tracks for tires. Several GT3 manufacturers will be involved in the testing process.

Like other endurance projects, tire longevity will be a key focus. As a minimum, Goodyear aims to achieve double stints at all Grand Prix circuits and triple stints at Le Mans. Further details about the tire development will be revealed in due course.

Ben Crawley, Director of Motorsport EMEA, Goodyear: “We’re excited to begin a new era with LMGT3 in WEC. The news is a testament to Goodyear’s commitment to its long-term racing program, and everyone in the team looks forward to an exciting 2024 season and beyond. 

“The new category poses a fascinating technical challenge. There are a wide variety of cars in the category, and the new tire needs to meet the demands of them all. During the testing process we will work directly with some of the leading GT3 manufacturers, which will produce different challenges due to their varying engine configuration and setup philosophies. We are developing the new tire by combining new technologies with our experience and expertise gained in other championships worldwide.”

The magazine presents this prestigious award to the tire manufacturer that has achieved the best overall result of the summer test season.

The magazine’s testers praised Goodyear’s summer range: “The premium manufacturer Goodyear landed at the top of the rankings three times with exemplary results. The current tire models Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 and EfficientGrip 2 SUV deliver convincing dynamic performance and future-proof sustainability³.”

Tire test success across Goodyear’s summer range

Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is Goodyear’s latest ultra-high performance (UHP) tire designed for a wide range of cars, including the latest EVs and SUVs. During a recent test, Auto Bild described the tire as having “exemplary performance on wet and dry slopes [with] outstanding mileage⁴.” The tire ranked first place out of 50 other summer tires while also being named "Eco-Master" for its efficiency. Goodyear’s test winner was the only tire in the test to receive only positive feedback. 

The tire also ranked on the podium during Auto Bild sportscars’ test⁵, hailed for its sporty and direct handling “with good feedback, well-balanced, good safety reserves in the event of aquaplaning, short wet and dry braking distances, quiet passing noise [and] fuel-saving rolling resistance."

Meanwhile, Goodyear’s EfficientGrip 2 SUV earned an “exemplary” rating in Auto Bild allrad’s test (225/65R17)⁶. The testers commented that the tire has “well-balanced, safe driving characteristics, good aquaplaning reserves, short wet braking distances, good off-road capability [and] good comfort."

Laurent Colantonio, Regional Technology Director EMEA, Goodyear: “We are delighted to have been named Auto Bild’s summer tire manufacturer of the year for a second consecutive year. The award recognises the constant pursuit of performance that we are building into every Goodyear design. Auto Bild’s testing methodology is among the most thorough in the industry, both in terms of the performance criteria and the number of tires that are compared. Our current tire range represents an outstanding level of technical excellence and this award underlines the ability of our team to develop and manufacture tires that optimise vehicle performance across all summer driving conditions.”

1. Auto Bild issue 14/23.
2. Auto Bild issue 15/22. 
3. All magazine quotes translated from original German.
4. Auto Bild: 50 summer tires tested, dimension 225/45R18. Test car: BMW 3 Series. Issue 10/2023.
5. Auto Bild issue 10/23.
6. Auto Bild: Sommerreifen-Test 2023: 225/65 R17.

It is a common misconception that drivers don’t differentiate among different types and brands of tires and consider them as a pure commodity. New research conducted by Ipsos demonstrates that a growing number of consumers believe having the right tires is crucial and consider their performance before making their tire choice.

Results show that 73% of respondents believe tires are ‘extremely important’ or ‘important’. They believe that tires help make their driving safer (37%), help to control the car in any weather conditions (16%), improve the handling of the car (10%) and save money in fuel (8%). More than four out of five² drivers reported that they consider the performance of a tire while making their purchasing decision.

With the rise of EVs across Europe and globally, drivers are increasingly conscious of a tire’s impact on efficiency and sustainability. When consumers were asked in another Goodyear survey³ what characteristics they expect from an EV-ready tire, almost one third (31%) prefer the value of a long-lasting tire, while nearly another third (27%) look for an eco-friendly tire with low environmental impact, and 18% look for lower overall road noise. 

These findings prove that consumers prefer premium tires which offer excellent performance in all driving conditions as well as efficiency and sustainability; in other words, they look for a perfectly balanced tire. Premium tire manufacturer Goodyear strivers to answer this need with the newest generation of its highly acclaimed Eagle F1 Asymmetric family. 

Top Manufacturer Summer 2023

Goodyear has recently again been awarded “Top Manufacturer Summer 2023”⁴ by the prestigious German test magazine Auto Bild, thus honoring Goodyear as the best performing brand overall in the current summer tire test season. 

The magazine comments: “The premium manufacturer Goodyear landed at the top of the rankings three times with exemplary results. The current tire models Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 and EfficientGrip 2 SUV deliver convincing dynamic top performance and future-proof sustainability.”⁵

Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6: Delivering uncompromising performance 

Goodyear’s latest ultra-high-performance (UHP) tire Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 delivers a step forward in performance⁶ and efficiency⁷. State-of-the-art technologies provide drivers with excellent grip, braking and handling in dry and wet weather conditions.

At the same time, a range of features make the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 EV-ready. A more aero-efficient sidewall reduces drag and improves mileage. Meanwhile, the varying sipe pattern works to dampen road noise. The tire is also certified for a higher load rating to serve an EV market with typically heavier vehicles.

The tire was named winner of Auto Bild⁸ summer tire test, with the publication placing it first when compared to 49 other summer tires. In addition, it was certified ‘Eco-Master’ for its efficiency, low rolling resistance and sustainability. Testers noted the tires’ “premium tread pattern with exemplary performance on wet and dry slopes [with] outstanding mileage.”

Sonia Leneveu, Director Marketing Consumer Europe, Goodyear: “Drivers demand more from tires than ever before, and the trend towards highly informed buying decisions, with drivers focused on technology and sustainability, proves that tires are not a commodity.

"There are a number of innovations associated with Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 that make it a very balanced tire. It brings together Goodyear’s UHP tire characteristics and EV-specific features, which are increasingly important as electric vehicles become more widespread.”

_{(1) Ipsos Category drivers and segmentation study 2022 conducted in France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and UK.}

_{(2) Ipsos Category drivers and segmentation study 2022 conducted in France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and UK - 85% of respondents stated that their tire buying decision is either based solely on performance or a combination of performance and price.}

_{(3) Goodyear EV tire market research 2021.}

_{(4) Auto Bild issue 14/23}

_{(5 All magazine quotes translated from original German.}

_{(6) Compared to predecessor Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5. Internal tests, size 225/45R17, test car: Volkswagen Golf 8, test location: Mireval Test Track, 2021.}

_{(7) Reduction of rolling resistance, weight and noise compared to predecessor Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5.}

_{(8) Auto Bild: 50 summer tires tested, dimension 225/45R18. Test car: BMW 3 Series. Issue 3/2023.}