Demands to reduce the transport sector's carbor dioxide emissions may be proving expensive, but even the smallest improvement in green credentials represents a marketing opportunity. And this is as true in tyre manufacturing as it is in powertrain design.You might have to wait a while for an affordable hybrid but green tyres are already road-ready. Low rolling resistance is a key target for most tyre makers these days, responding not just to environmental concerns but also to those of the average consumer. Research by Michelin indicates buyers want three things from their tyres. Safety is one; the other two both involve cost: 72 per cent of people said they wanted longer life from their tyres and 58 per cent asked for fuel-savings. That means reducing tyres' rolling resistance.
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