News Summary: Goodyear tests soybean oil tires
COOL BEANS: Goodyear is testing tires made with soybean oil as it tries to cut its use of petroleum and extend tread life. Researchers found that the tread on tires made with soybean oil can last 10 percent longer than current tires.
IN THE FIELD: Prototypes made at the company's Lawton, Okla., plant will be tested at proving grounds in Texas. If tests are positive, the soy oil could be used to make tires by 2015.
CASH CROP: Soybean oil, which comes from a renewable resource, could cut Goodyear's use of petroleum by up to 7 million gallons per year.
