AKRON, Ohio, — Goodyear Tire & Rubber says its fuel-efficient tires have been certified by the Environmental Protection Agency for use on SmartWay-eligible trucks.

The line-haul tires, featuring Fuel Max Technology, deliver up to 4 percent improved truck fuel economy, and when used with other SmartWay-qualified components, each truck can produce savings of up to 4,000 gallons per year, or more than $11,000 annually, according to Goodyear.

The Fuel Max line includes new steer, drive and trailer tires and retreads for a complete “cradle-to-grave” tire system for trucking fleets and owner-operators. The tires are available for use on new trucks and as replacement tires.

While company officials are citing up to a 4 percent hike in fuel economy with the new tires, actual Society of Automotive Engineers lab test results showed up to an 8 percent improvement compared with standard Goodyear over-the-road tires. The difference, says the company, reflects adjustments for real-world variations, including vehicle speed, idling time, varying road grades and different driving styles.

EPA has announced that 2007 models of heavy trucks can earn certification from the SmartWay program — a collaboration between freight shippers, carriers, and logistics companies, voluntarily improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions from freight transport.