LOUISVILLE, KY -- The new GT Radial GT979 FS trailer tire, which has received SmartWay verification, is being introduced to the North American market.

The GT Radial GT979 FS provides long tread life and reliable retreadability for long haul operations, according to the company. Its five streamlined ribs and shallow tread provide even, smooth wear due to its balanced contact pressure distribution. The tire's solid shoulders prevent damages in the tread during turnings and curbing.

This product is available in the following sizes: 295/75R22.5, 11R22.5 (14 and 16 ply), 11R24.5 (14 ply), and 285/75R24.5.

There is now a SmartWay GT Radial truck tire for every axle position. The GT Radial GT979 FS joins the GT Radial GSL213 FS steer tire and GT669+ FS drive tire, both of which received SmartWay verification in 2010.

"This is great news for our customers because trailer tires have a significant impact on fuel economy," says William Estupinan, GITI Tire technical director for the Americas.

According to Estupinan, on a tractor-trailer combination, the steer tires contribute 15% to 20% of the tires' overall contribution to fuel economy, drive tires 30% to 40%, and trailer tires about 40% to 50%.

Receiving SmartWay verification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency means that the products reduce emissions and provide an estimated fuel savings of 3% or more against market leading on-highway commercial truck tires.