It’s time to rethink the way we make tyres, and the off-highway segment is no exception to this global imperative, driven by sustainability in the first place.
The escalating costs of petroleum-based rubber, coupled with manufacturers’ demand for materials that boost operational efficiency and cut long-term expenses, have emerged as potent motivators, while regulatory bodies have also entered the fray, underlining the necessity for eco-friendly solutions in tyre production and recycling processes.
Just a year ago, researchers from Imperial College London’s Transition to Zero Pollution initiative sounded the alarm on the environmental impact of tyre wear; and even the UK government has recently sought evidence on decarbonisation options for industrial vehicles operating off-highway, mirroring a broader global trend of heightened legislative scrutiny.
New ranges of innovative products, engineered to optimise performance while minimising environmental footprints, are consequently making their debut in the market, shining as beacons of sustainability; and, among them, Trelleborg Tyres stands out as a compelling story to be shared.
Cutting-edge tyre technology as a sustainability engine
While the sustainable impact of tyres has been frequently overlooked, Trelleborg Tyres has been making a name for itself through a revolutionary approach to materials sourcing and manufacturing processes. By harnessing renewable resources and employing advanced production techniques, Trelleborg Tyres is nowadays capable of delivering tyre solutions that not only perform exceptionally but also reduce carbon emissions and environmental footprint significantly.
For instance, the TM1 ECO POWER tyre, engineered for both electric and fuel-powered tractors, incorporates 65% bio-based and recycled materials, offering superior performance at the highest environmental standards, ultimately promoting responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices.
Similarly, the XP1000 advanced treads for material handling equipment are crafted from high-performance compounds made with recycled materials, ensuring longevity and significant emissions reduction, also thanks to an exclusive Pit Stop Line that minimises waste. These unique features contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions on the order of 110 tons of CO2, equivalent to the pollution generated by nearly 800,000 kilometres of driving.
Eventually in the construction segment, the EMR range is specifically designed for loader, dumper, and grader applications, with a robust carcass to support eventual retreading.
Tyres that keep you going, durable and efficient design for maximised performances
Beyond the tyre composition, Trelleborg Tyres has prioritised fuel and energetic efficiency as a key feature of its sustainable tyre offerings, providing solutions that enable vehicle operators to not only save money, but also increase productivity and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
Design is key: thanks to its tread central rib, the TM1 ECO POWER has proven extremely low rolling resistance which enables low fuel consumption and extended battery usage, proving an astounding 47% improvement versus a premium standard tyre. In the same way, the advanced construction and compound formula of the XP1000 provides for extra battery power for electric forklifts and reduces fuel consumption for internal combustion truck; and the strong radial carcass and state of the art compound of the EMR1030 tyre assure a long operational life made of low fuel consumption and equal load distribution.
The man behind the wheel comes first
A comfortable driving experience is paramount for operators’ safety and efficiency. By reducing accidents, it becomes a key sustainable feature for tyres as well as sustainable asset for companies. Trelleborg Tyres has recognised this.
For example, the TM1 ECO POWER offers from 5% to 10% less deflection compared to the premium standard agricultural tyre, leading to reduced deformation under load, and offering improved stability during both transportation and daily farm operations, while the XP1000 middle cushion layer absorbs road roughness, minimising vibrations while maximising operator comfort and safety. Ultimately, the multi surface tread design of the EMR series delivers control and perfect grip when it’s needed the most, whether on sand, rock, gravel, or soil.
Through all these examples, Trelleborg’s sustainable tyre innovations represent a paradigm shift in the off-highway tyre industry, where green design and performance converge to shape the future of the segment. By championing sustainability at every stage of the tyre lifecycle, Trelleborg Tyres is not only redefining industry standards but also reaffirming its commitment to creating a more sustainable world for generations to come.
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