Yokohama’s new ADVAN Neova AD08 is an updated version of the company’s ADVAN ultra-high performance line. Available in the U.S. in mid-2009 in 32 sizes ranging from 15-to-19 inches, the ADO8 features distinct advancements in four key areas: dry grip wet grip, ride comfort and noise level, according to Yokohama. Many of the improvements, especially wet and dry grip, are attributed to a new micro silica compound, HDC (hyper density carbon), which also extends tread wear. Other highlights include specially placed steel sidewall inserts for improved handling and enhanced cornering, plus rapid reflex twin ribs that add stability and steering response. The tire also features an extra-wide unibloc shoulder that supplies continuous rubber-to-road contact during high-speed corning, adaptive flare blocks for better lateral strength and turning power and stress control grooves that minimize uneven wear, the company said.