The ENV-R2 tire is made with what Yokohama calls “orange oil,” referring to a production process that uses synthetic materials to replace petroleum products. Yokohama referred to “orange oil” as Super Nano-Power Rubber prior to the 2009 race. These tires are not only environmentally friendly during production but are easier to recycle than standard tires. Yokohama also notes that the ENV-R2 fits within the guidelines set by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration and the Rubber Manufacturers Association.
Yokohama used its EV Sports Concept HER-02 at Pike’s Peak to show a commitment to fuel-efficient propulsion equal to the ENV-R2. This concept resembled the Geolandar car used in 2009 with its pair of 13.5 kW motors from AC Propulsion and 15kWh lithium-ion battery from Sanyo. The HER-02 ran on an AC Propulsion motor with 150kW of peak power designed for the race track. Ikuo Hanawa reprised his role as a Yokohama race driver at the June 27th event to show the potential of the HER-02 and the ENV-R2. Organizers at the Pike’s Peak International Hill Climb created an Electric Vehicle Class out of the Exhibition Class to promote zero-emissions vehicles like the HER-02.
Pike’s Peak is an ideal testing location for Yokohama, a company focused on balancing high performance with sustainability. The 12-mile race features 156 turns and a 4,700 foot climb that can challenge the best of drivers. The Yokohama EV Sports Concept HER-02 traversed gravel and paved roads up a 7% grade that tested tire durability. The Race to the Clouds successfully tested Yokohama’s approach to eco-friendly tires though the competition was limited. The HER-02 was one of two vehicles in the Electric Vehicle Class along with an all-electric Freightliner Cascadia truck. Despite the thin field for EVs, Yokohama’s showing at Pike’s Peak demonstrated the need for more eco-friendly tires on the market to accompany advancements in EV drive systems.
