Tires & Rolling Resistance
“It is all about payback. The shorter the better, no matter what the cost.”
The entire weight of the tractor-trailer rides on the tires, generating rolling resistance – and making tires an important area to consider for improving fuel efficiency. Tire manufacturers have improved both the dual configurations for lower rolling resistance and developed single wide tires, which lower the contact area, improving fuel efficiency and providing weight savings. Aluminum wheels and tire pressure systems improve freight efficiency in the wheel system. Tire wear and susceptibility to damage should be key considerations when trying to optimize this area of the vehicle.