Goodyear has launched its new EfficientGrip Compact tyre, which will be available in 26 sizes on the market from July 2013. Ranging from 13 to 15 inch the new tyre is specifically designed for smaller and city cars.

A majority of sizes also receive a European tyre label grade B for wet grip and C for rolling resistance. 85 per cent of all available sizes are expected to be BC rated when all sizes are released.

Key features of the new EfficientGrip Compact include its strength in braking on wet roads, driven by multiple biting edges with extra large sipes. Sipes cut the water layer efficiently to reach dryer surface more quickly. Extra large sipes remain open longer in the contact area to cut the water layer more efficiently.

The new tyre also features a new rounder cavity shape. When tyres roll on wet surface, water accumulation in front of the tyre is created. A rounder cavity reduces the accumulation of water in front of the tyre to reduce the risk of aquaplaning. The cavity allows a growing footprint contact area under braking: contact area is increased, and more edges cut through water. Dual wide grooves channel water while keeping contact with the road at the centre area.

A new tyre structure optimization means that, through more efficient component shapes, the weight of EfficientGrip Compact is reduced by 5% versus its predecessor, the Goodyear DuraGrip. Less material in the tyre and optimized component properties in the tyre lead to less heat generation and thus less rolling resistance. A stiff tread design reduces the rubber components deformation and therefore generates less energy dissipation while large shoulder blocks increase the contact area under braking and provides higher lateral stiffness/rigidity for improved cornering. Finally, an optimized pressure distribution enables more regular wear which provides higher mileage.

“The EfficientGrip Compact contributes to an important market segment, the small and city cars”, says Hugues Despres, Brand Director for Goodyear EMEA. “There is a growing market for smaller cars in Europe and a specific need for a range of tyres to meet that demand. The EfficientGrip Compact delivers on this need”.