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Toyo Tires has launched an all-new version of their Open Country A/T III, engineered specifically for EV trucks and SUVs. Building on their popular all-terrain tire, the Open Country A/T III EV aims to deliver a significant upgrade in all-terrain capability, all-weather performance, and efficiency to enhance your EV truck's driving experience.
The forum team spoke with the lead engineer on this project, and from what we've seen, significant research and development has gone into this tire, particularly regarding efficiency related to rolling resistance and aerodynamics, construction and compounding. To give F150 Lightning Forum an inside look, here are some key insights from our discussion:
- F-150 Lightning and similar EVs offer instant torque, blazingly quick acceleration, and weight significantly more, compared to their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts. Toyo has engineered the Open Country A/T III EV from the ground up with these characteristics in mind, while maintaining the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake Symbol for severe snow service.
- The Open Country A/T III EV utilizes a patented AeroWing technology, resembling a spoiler at the bottom of the sidewall lug. Instead of creating downforce, this feature pushes air away from the tire. Further improving aerodynamics, Toyo has reduced the size of the chamfered shoulder block and used smooth, almost flush, high-contrast lettering on the sidewall, similar to the Toyo Open Country Q/T.
- The exact details of the rubber compound are proprietary, but it reportedly features an advanced, more evenly distributed full-silica compound. This translates to improved rolling resistance (more than 20% improvement), efficiency, and wet performance compared to the non-EV version.
- Speaking of rolling resistance, through testing, Toyo found that their Open Country A/T III EV is nearly on par with the OE Lightning highway-terrain tires, with only a 5% decrease in efficiency, which translates to roughly 5 miles of range difference. It's important to note that Toyo used their own F-150 Lightnings for testing.
The Open Country A/T III EV will be available in fifteen (15) LT-metric and P/Euro-metric sizes with XL, SL, and E load ranges. The first size, LT275/60R-20 (LR-E), is available now, with additional sizes following in Q3 and Q4 2024. Rim diameters include 18", 20", 22", and 24".
Additional highlights include:
- Balanced void ratio
- Increased tread block rigidity
- 50,000 mile treadwear warranty for LT sizes
- 500-miles or 45-day trial
As EV trucks and SUVs become increasingly popular for off-road exploration, aftermarket support is growing. The emergence of the Open Country A/T III EV reflects this trend, catering to adventurous EV owners.
What are your thoughts on the Toyo Open Country A/T III EV?
