According to the manufacturer, the Regional RHS 225/70R17.5, which fits standard rims, increases front axle weight capacity whilst providing enhanced handling and better wear characteristics.

"Until now, many 7.5 tonne vehicle operators have had problems keeping the front axle weight legal. This is particularly so with refrigerated vehicles, which have the fridge unit mounted above the cab roof, and delivery vehicles under diminishing load situations," said JÜrgen Spielmann, director of tyre technology for Goodyear Dunlop Tyres Europe. "We have studied operator needs, particularly with regard to axle loadings and have developed this new 225/70R17.5 front tyre. As well as improving the weight distribution potential, the tyre offers reduced wear and other user benefits, and most importantly, can be fitted to existing rims."

The usual 7.5 tonne vehicle today uses 215/75R17.5 tyres on the front. This gives a front axle load capacity of 3,400 kg, which in many cases, can become overloaded. “This is particularly so with refrigerated trucks and vehicles, which are involved in multi-drop work, where the centre of gravity of the load moves forwards as the deliveries progress,” Goodyear said in a statement describing the launch. According to the manufacturer, the new tyre increases the weight capacity of the axle by 200 kg.

The Regional RHS 225/70R17.5 has similar weight and diameter to the 215/75R17.5 and fits standard 17.5×6 up to 17.5×6.75 rims.