Hankook tests fuel-saving credentials of is new e-cube truck tyre in an independent comparison by German testing agency DEKRA
September 3, 2012
Korean manufacturer Hankook has tested the fuel-saving credentials of is new e-cube truck tyre in an independent comparison by German testing agency DEKRA.
The test, on DEKRA’s oval track in Germany, found the new e-cube tyres provided up to 5 percent fuel saving under identical load and speed conditions.
Using a Scania G420 prime mover towing a fully-laden Schmitz Cargobull trailer, the combination recorded an average fuel consumption of 29.4 litres per 100km (3.4km per litre) over 6,000km of driving on the tyres.
The fuel saving was compared to Hankook’s standard AL02, DL02 and TH02 tyres when driven over the same test loop and duration.
Although not in wide use in Australia, the e-cube tyres tested were 385/80R22 size in the new AL10 all position long haul and DL10 drive axle long haul, while the trailer was fitted with 385/65R22.5 size TL10 trailer long haul tyres.
Hankook says the e-cube tyres use low-dampening compounds to reduce visco-elastic power loss, which is a major contributor to the loss of efficiency in tyres. The manufacturer says the tyres generate less heat, improving efficiency and reducing fuel consumption.
Hankook has also optimised the tread pattern for each tyre’s axle positions, with the steer tyres (AL10) using a 5-rib tread with four straight grooves and waved sidewalls.
The drive tyre (DL 10) has tread ribs cut into wide blocks and grooves, while the blocks use alternating angles for traction and reduced rolling resistance.
The trailer tyres (TL10) are also six-rib designs, with smaller grooves for greater longitudinal stability and good water clearance.
The new tyres will be available in sizes ranging from 275/70R22.5 to 315/70R22.5 for the drive tyres, while the trailer tyres will have 275/70R22.65 to 445/45R19.5 sizes, with the steer tyre ranging from 275/70R22.5 to 385/55R22.5.
