Tokyo - The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., announced today that it will launch a new edition to its fuel-efficient "BluEarth" tire brand for passenger cars in Europe and Asia from this spring. Most sizes of the new "BluEarth-A" have been awarded the European tire grading system's C grade for rolling resistance and A for wet performance.

The "BluEarth-A" delivers the high degree of drivability and exceptional fuel efficiency that typifies YOKOHAMA pursuit of driving pleasure. In addition, it offers a well-balanced total performance featuring low noise, comfort and long-life. The application of a "nano BLEND compound" based on YOKOHAMA's advance compound technology combined with an asymmetrical tread pattern provide "BluEarth-A" tires with superior wet grip while enhancing their fuel efficiency and abrasion resistance. The asymmetrical tread pattern also contributes to the tires' exceptional rigidity and drainage characteristics. The "BluEarth-A" employs a "noise-controlled pitch" that contributes to a quieter ride by suppressing the incidence of uneven tire wear. The tire's unique profile holds up well under the weight of large sedans and helps ensure a high level of control stability. YOKOHAMA has applied its proprietary aerodynamic technologies to reduce air drag and its dimple design on the tire shoulders help to further raise the tires' fuel efficiency.

"BluEarth" is YOKOHAMA's "environmentally, human and socially friendly" global tire brand realizing not only excellent environmental performance, but reducing specific burdens on drivers, passengers and surrounding living environments - "friendly" performance. In addition to the "BluEarth-A," other environmentally friendly products within the "BluEarth" range include the flagship "BluEarth-1" and the "BluEarth AE-01" which are already available on the market.