Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. has announced its significant participation in the upcoming Mint 400, the United States’ esteemed off-road racing event, set to take place in Nevada from 6 to 10 March. The company is equipping more than 25 vehicles, competing across 10 classes, with its renowned GEOLANDAR tyres, designed specifically for SUVs and pickup trucks.
The Mint 400, celebrated as the oldest off-road race in America, attracts around 400 teams globally to navigate a daunting 400-mile desert course near Las Vegas. Yokohama’s commitment to the event includes providing its GEOLANDAR M/T G003 mud-terrain tyres alongside a special race version of the same tyre. This variant not only meets the rigorous demands of off-road racing but also incorporates sustainable materials, reflecting Yokohama’s dedication to environmental responsibility.
Among the drivers supported by Yokohama are notable names like Jonathan Brenthel, the 2023 Best in the Desert series champion, his brother Jordan Brenthel, and Ikuo Hanawa, who secured a second-place finish in his class at the 2022 Mint 400. The Brenthel brothers and Hanawa will be showcasing the prowess of GEOLANDAR tyres, including the special version featuring 42% sustainable raw material content, underscoring Yokohama’s innovation in tyre technology.
The GEOLANDAR M/T G003 tyres are lauded for their exceptional durability and performance across various off-road terrains. This reputation is bolstered by Yokohama’s recent success at the King of the Hammers race in California, where the brand’s tyres secured first-place finishes in three classes, underscoring their superior off-road capabilities.
Yokohama Rubber’s involvement in motorsport, especially events like the Mint 400, is integral to its strategy under the Yokohama Transformation 2026 (YX2026) medium-term management plan. The plan focuses on expanding sales of high-value-added tyres, including the global flagship ADVAN brand, GEOLANDAR tyres, winter tyres, and those 18 inches in diameter and larger. Motorsports participation is a key component of Yokohama’s efforts to enhance the prestige of the ADVAN and GEOLANDAR brands globally.
As Yokohama Rubber gears up for the Mint 400, its support for racing teams and commitment to sustainable innovation in tyre technology demonstrate a harmonious blend of performance, durability, and environmental stewardship.
The event promises to be a thrilling showcase of Yokohama’s tyre excellence and a testament to the enduring appeal of off-road racing in America.
