The HTR Z III (High Technology Radials-3rd generation) is Sumitomo's Max Performance Summer tire developed for sports cars, sporty coupes and high performance sedans. It is designed to showcase Sumitomo's technical resources by providing high speed handling stability along with traction on dry and wet roads. Like all summer tires, it is not intended to be driven in near-freezing temperatures, through snow or on ice.The Sumitomo HTR Z III features a silica-enhanced tread compound molded into a sophisticated, 5-rib, asymmetric tread design. Large outboard shoulder and intermediate tread blocks along with continuous center and inboard intermediate ribs provide responsive handling, high-speed stability and dry road traction. The inside shoulder is linked by another continuous circumferential rib that enhances wear quality to help reduce noise throughout the life of the tire, especially on vehicles with independent suspensions and alignment settings that specify negative camber. Straight and wide circumferential grooves along with long, sweeping lateral grooves pump water from under the tire's footprint to increase hydroplaning resistance and wet traction.The Sumitomo HTR Z III radial features a high-rigidity construction consisting of wide steel belts reinforced by spirally wrapped polyamide that stabilize the tread area to enhance handling and high-speed capability. Its polyester cord body and hard rubber sidewall fillers help blend uniform ride quality with steering response and lateral stability.