Dunlop introduces TAIYO system to optimize bus tire costs

Dunlop is shifting its evaluation strategy for bus tires by prioritizing cost per kilometer (CPK) over initial purchase price. This approach considers the entire lifecycle of the tire, including fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and retreadability potential.

Central to this strategy is the TAIYO system, an innovative manufacturing process that eliminates rubber seams by using a continuous process instead of overlaps. This technology improves structural consistency and material distribution, which reduces wear and extends tire life.

The company has introduced specific models to meet different transport needs: the SP176 is designed for urban transit, featuring a robust bead and heat-dissipating rubber to handle frequent braking and irregular pavement, while the SP320 is aimed at intercity operations. By maximizing the distance a tire can travel through multiple life cycles, the initial investment is effectively diluted, leading to lower long-term operational costs for fleet managers.