AKRON, Ohio, May 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- As fuel prices rise, one of the most successful and recognized product lines in the automotive passenger tire segment – the Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max – is a choice for those looking to achieve fuel efficiency with their cars and SUVs.

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An innovative tire, Goodyear's Assurance Fuel Max helps drivers save gas and spend less money getting to their destination. It features a proprietary fuel-saving tread compound that helps reduce energy loss as the tire rolls, so less gas is required to keep the tire rolling.  The 4 percent improvement in highway fuel economy delivered by the Fuel Max tires means, in essence, drivers can save up to 2,600 miles worth of gas over the life of a set of 4 tires.*

The tire has contributed to various high-profile fuel economy examples that showcase the advantages of the technology.

Last August, Craig Henderson, of Bellingham, WA, drove his custom-built car more than 1,400 miles – from the U.S.-Canada border to the U.S.-Mexico border on one tank of fuel. With Assurance Fuel Max tires providing the traction, the car achieved more than 119 miles per gallon during the journey.

The Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max also was named one of the "100 Most Innovative Products of the Year" by Popular Science magazine. The tire made the Popular Science "Best of What's New" 2009 list of products in the Automotive Technology category.

Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max tires also have been selected as original equipment fitments for recognized fuel-efficient vehicles, such as the 2011 Chevrolet Volt, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco, 2010 Ford Fusion S, and 2010 Toyota Prius.

The tire has earned the Good Housekeeping Seal, after evaluation by the Good Housekeeping Research Institute. Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max tires will carry the familiar Good Housekeeping Seal on product packaging, in brochures and advertisements, and various displays.

The Seal is an emblem of Good Housekeeping's consumer policy, which offers a two-year, money-back limited warranty within two years of purchase. See warranty for full details.

"As drivers across the U.S. and Canada initiate their planning for lengthy summer road trips, many of them are looking for ways to deal with the high price of fuel," said Gary Medalis, Goodyear brand general manager. "Goodyear's expertise in Fuel Max Technology can be as important for their summer vacations as packing the sunscreen."

The Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max is available to consumers, and offers all-season traction with a full range of 37 sizes, fitting more than 80 percent of the passenger tire segment. Additionally, Assurance(CS) Fuel Max is a tire with the same fuel-saving benefits, available in 21 sizes for SUVs and crossover vehicles. **

Goodyear urges motorists to regularly check tread depth and tire inflation. Properly inflated tires will benefit the vehicle's performance, provide even-wearing tires for longer tread life, and even help improve fuel efficiency.

See www.goodyear.com for more details on the Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max tires.

Goodyear (NYSE: GT) is one of the world's largest tire companies.  It employs approximately 69,000 people and manufactures its products in more than 57 facilities in 23 countries around the world.  Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry.  For more information about Goodyear, go to www.goodyear.com/corporate.

* Up to 2,600 miles based on a 4% fuel economy improvement, on 65,000 Mile Tread Life Limited Warranty, as compared to the standard Goodyear Assurance tire tested on P195/65R15 size – 2008 Honda Civic.  Actual results may vary based on when tires are replaced, driving and road conditions, and proper tire maintenance.

**Up to 2,600 miles based on a 4% fuel economy improvement on 65,000 Mile Tread Life Limited Warranty, 245/65R17 size as compared to the Goodyear Fortera SilentArmor tire tested on P245/65R17 size - 2005 Honda Pilot EX. Actual results may vary based on when tires are replaced driving and road conditions, and proper tire maintenance.

SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company