Yokohama to use prototype BluEarth tyres at EV hill climb event

Tokyo – The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., said its entry in the 2011 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb will be fitted with prototype BluEarth tyres incorporating various environmental technologies, including orange oil compounding techniques.

The “Challenge” is one of Yokohama Rubber’s environmental activities based on the BluEarth concept, which the company seeks to share with the world under the theme “environmentally, human and socially friendly.” Last year, the team accomplished the outstanding feat of substantially besting the previous all-time record for an EV.

Yokohama Rubber’s EV car will again be driven by Ikuo Hanawa, a skilled performer in world-class off-road racing. Based on last year’s machine, it features enhanced specifications and improved performance. It uses a lithium-ion battery from Sanyo Electric and an AC Induction Motor from American AC Propulsion, enabling plug-in recharging. The event will be staged on June 26, in the state of Colorado, US.

Marking its 89th year, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb – also known as the “Race to the Clouds” – is the best-known hill climb in the world. Racing to the 4,301-meter summit, participants cover a 20-kilometer course beginning at the 2,862-meter level. The race is famous for the severity of its conditions: rapidly changing temperatures and weather, a combination of tarmac and gravel surfaces, and 156 turns.

Source: http://www.european-rubber-journal.com//fullitem.aspx?id=115831