August 14, 2009
  

New Run-Flat From Yokohama
 

Yokohama’s ADVAN ZPS offers strength from the inside where it uses rigid sidewall reinforcement with a low heat-generating compound that is designed to support the weight of the vehicle during loss of air pressure. An exclusive bead-filler delivers a comfortable ride during normal operations and high-rigidity under zero-pressure conditions, and an extra-thick bead wire placed in a hexagonal arrangement allows for easier fitting to the rim and reduces the risk of bead unseating after loss of air pressure.

Yokohama’s latest nanotechnology tread compound offers additional grip from the outside as well. It bonds super-fine, high-grade silica and polymers at the molecular level to increase flexibility, durability and contact area by approximately 10% for better wet and dry traction at an array of temperatures. Variable round grooves—cut in circular shapes at different widths and angles—prevent one-sided abrasion. Additionally, four wide circumferential grooves quickly evacuate water for enhanced wet traction and a groove-in-groove configuration controls stress to improve handling and promote even wear.

The ADVAN Sport ZPS will be available in 13 sizes to fit popular high-performance vehicles such as the BMW 3 Series, Z4, 5 Series and 7 Series, the Lexus GS and SC, and the Mini Cooper and Cooper S. It is now on the market. (SB)