Continental's Commercial Vehicle Tire business unit is converting its entire portfolio of HSL2 products to the Eco Plus line.

The previous generation HSL2 will be phased out, with all sizes changed to HSL2 Eco Plus by the end of summer 2012, says brand manager Libor Heger.

"Even wear is crucial, if a fleet is looking for optimal steer tire performance," says Heger. "With the latest generation of low rolling resistance compounding, the new HSL2 Eco Plus offers not only SmartWay verified fuel saving performance, but also advanced wear characteristics."

The HSL2 Eco Plus's increased tread wear volume is a major longevity factor, says the company, with engineering specifically for balanced pressure distribution and vectored forces within the tire's footprint.

Continental's VAI, a graduated system of sipes that provide a visual indication of proper alignment, is also included from the previous generation product. However, the Eco Plus tread compounding, specially formulated for low rolling resistance, and footprint modifications are what Conti engineers have incorporated in this new tire to guard against irregular wear.

"Components of the Eco Plus compound were specifically selected to reduce two major concerns with steer tires: decoupler groove cracking and micro-cracking in the sipes," Heger says. "Both of these contribute to irregular wear and premature removal of the tire. In addition, we've modified the footprint of this tire for maximum performance. More even pressure distribution in the footprint versus the previous generation HSL2 reduces slippage and tread 'snap,' which also delivers more even wear.

"By utilizing our expertise in fuel efficient compounding, as well as delivering better wear through an advanced layout, we can now offer both the lowered rolling resistance and long mileage that fleets demand," he says.

Other features that ensure longer mileage and retreadability for the HSL2 Eco Plus are a premium four-ply belt package and advanced bead chafer construction for extended product life through the retreading phases, Heger said.

The HSL2 Eco Plus is available now in NAFTA markets, in sizes 11R22.5, 275/80R22.5, 11R24.5, and 285/75R24.5. These sizes offer 19/32nds tread depth and load ranges G and H. For product specifications, go to www.continental-truck.com