Hankook Tire has introduced a redesigned regional and longhaul tire it says features a new tread design for better traction and fuel efficiency.

The SmartFlex DL15+ tire comes with an optimized bead profile and a carcass structure the company says minimizes tire deformation and improves overall energy dispersion under heavy loads. The belt structure is also new, for reduced heat generation and longer casing life.

“At Hankook, we’re always looking for new and innovative ways to better support our nation’s truckers with products that have proven to go the distance and outperform industry standards, especially regarding fuel efficiency,” said Rob Williams, president of Hankook Tire America Corp. “In today’s landscape, having products engineered to improve rolling resistance and lower overall cost-per-mile for owners and independent operators is especially important in helping that next fill-up go further.”

The tire is developed using Hankook’s Smartec TBR technology, which focuses on: safety; mileage; anti-chip/cut; retreadability; and traction. The technology allowed for the use of 3D self-regenerating sipes that turn out at mid and latter stages for improved traction and longer life. A combined rib and semi-block pattern provide greater stability and handling and improved fuel mileage, the company claims.