Bridgestone Americas launched the new Bandag B713 FuelTech drive tire tread, engineered to increase retread value for fleets, according to the tire manufacturer. The new tread is SmartWay verified and delivers fuel efficiency as well as improved wear life without compromising on traction or reliable performance.

“When partnering with Bandag on a retreading program, fleets not only get more miles out of less rubber, but they are contributing to a more sustainable society,” said Jason Roanhouse, executive director, Bandag, U.S. and Canada, Bridgestone Americas. “The all-new Bandag B713 FuelTech drive tire tread can yield longer-lasting wear life, improved traction and reduce irregular wear, extending the life of a tire and maximizing fleet savings.”

Key features of the Bridgestone Bandag B713 FuelTech design include:

• A new proprietary compound that delivers 30% longer wear life and 7% better wear for more miles of low fuel cost performance.

• 3D siping featuring 130% more biting edges for improved traction.

• A continuous shoulder design that distributes weight and torque more evenly to fight irregular wear, which can lead to premature tire removal.

Fleets that utilize Bandag for retreading positively impact the environment by engaging in a circular economy, according to a company statement.

Last year in the U.S., 6,293,244 used tires were retreaded with the Bandag system which contributed to 94 million gallons of oil saved, 261 million pounds of waste diverted from landfills, a reduction of 186 million pounds of tire waste and saved enough energy to power 168 million homes.

Bridgestone noted that the introduction of the new Bridgestone Bandag B713 FuelTech drive tread design aligns with the Bridgestone E8 Commitment, which serves as an axis to drive management while earning the trust of future generations.

The Bridgestone E8 Commitment consists of 8 Bridgestone-like values starting with the letter “E” (Energy, Ecology, Efficiency, Extension, Economy, Emotion, Ease, and Empowerment) that Bridgestone will commit to implement together with employees, society, partners and customers to create a sustainable society. The development of the B713 retread aligns with “Ecology: Committed to advancing sustainable tire technologies and solutions that preserve the environment for future generations,” and “Efficiency: Committed to maximizing productivity through advancement of mobility.”

Editor's Note: Information on total used retreaded tires and resulting data was updated May 16, 2022.