We all know that tires play a hugely important role in how a car performs, whether that is in terms of handling, comfort, or noise. In the world of electric vehicles, specially-made tires are becoming increasingly common and Bridgestone has just launched its first replacement tire designed specifically for premium electric vehicles.
The new tire is known as the Turanza EV and is initially being produced in five fitments for the Tesla Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a further 13 sizes to be launched next year. The tire debuts Bridgestone’s new ENLITEN technology and includes a “next-generation” tread compound that is designed to optimize wear life and all-season performance.
Bridgestone notes that it developed a new PeakLife polymer technology for the Turanza EV tires at its technology center in Ohio, claiming that this polymer lasts longer and is designed to reduce rolling resistance levels. The new tires also have recycled carbon black from end-of-life tires, feature renewable soybean oil, Rice Husk Silica usually discarded in rice harvesting, and synthetic rubber made from recycled plastic bags and bottles. The tire incorporates 50% renewable and recycled materials.
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“With the accelerated progress toward an electrified vehicle fleet, we’re thrilled to launch a tire that is designed to help drivers get the best overall experience from their electric vehicles, including ride comfort, all-season driving performance and excellent wear life,” president and chief sales officer of Bridgestone Americas Riccardo Cichi said. “We are also excited to introduce ENLITEN, which marks a major pivot in how we approach tire technology and design to deliver both exceptional dynamic performance and increased use of renewable and recycled materials.”
Given how quiet an electric vehicle’s powertrain is, it comes as no surprise that Bridgestone has also worked on to ensure the Turanza EV tires are whisper-quiet thanks to the use of the company’s QuietTrack technology. The tires also come with a 50,000-mile (80,467 km) limited warranty.
