Low rolling resistance, outstanding safety and durability are the three main requirements that car tyres need to fulfil, both today and in the future. To drive progress in this area, the scientists and engineers at Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd. conducted pioneering research into the molecular structure of tyres, using particle accelerators and advanced simulation computers. They succeeded in simulating and controlling the molecular structure of rubber compounds used for tyres at nano level; for example, they analysed where and how superfluous heat was generated in the tyre and how this development could be minimised. Heat means loss of energy for the tyre, and thus rolling resistance – which is ultimately responsible for fuel consumption. Advanced 4D-Nano Design technology is the result of these advanced findings in molecular structures. It enables savings in fuel consumption of up to five per cent to be achieved compared to conventional tyre models, and significantly improves the tyre’s performance in wet conditions.