The electric-drive ready tyre from Goodyear is designed to have lower energy consumption to match the move towards electrification for city buses across Europe.
Electrification, Autonomy and Accessibility, Including On-Demand Services Revolutionising the Industry
Based on the URBANMAX MCA design, the new MCA HL+ is adapted to support additional battery loads while enhancing lower energy consumption. The technology in the tyre, which includes a new tread compound and construction design helps operators reduce CO2 and noise emissions, particularly in densely populated areas.
The URBANMAX MCA HL+ is an all-position tyre with a high-load structure enabling an 8-tonne axle load capacity required by modern electric or hybrid buses.
Maciej Szymanski, Marketing Director Commercial Europe for Goodyear said of the tyre: “Bus operators are under increasing pressure to meet environmental targets whilst adapting to changing trends in urban mobility. Goodyear wants to simplify the move towards a climate-neutral future by providing the winning technology for enhanced personal mobility. We aim to support bus fleet managers in lowering the carbon footprint by driving energy efficiency with low-emission tyres as well as smart tyre monitoring systems.”
Whilst energy efficiency is at the forefront of fleet managers’ minds, durability remains a key factor in running bus operations. Buses have to tackle a wide range of demanding road conditions, including kerb impacts, potholes, speed humps, urban areas with tight turning circles and regular stop-start driving.
As public transportation keeps cities moving, service needs to run whatever the weather. The URBANMAX MCA range is ready for all-season operations and has a 3PMSF sidewall marking related to its responsiveness on snowy and icy surfaces.
Goodyear Ensures URBANMAX Suitable for Retreading
Goodyear has also focused on various technologies that combine robustness with energy efficiency. The company also integrated RFID tags to allow simple identification and connectivity to tyre management and tracking systems, further streamlining tyre management.
Important as well for the sustainable transport goals of fleets, the tyre range is also compatible with the Goodyear Retreading program.
Szymanski concluded of the tyre's capabilities, “The URBANMAX MCA is known for its high mileage potential, traction and all-weather grip performance required in demanding urban environments. For many years, the product line is a tried and trusted option for leading transportation companies across Europe as it caters to the needs of both combustion and alternative drive trains. The new URBANMAX MCA HL+ size offers lower rolling resistance to enhance energy and fuel efficiency as well as an increased load capacity, further supporting range extension for electric buses.”
