http://www.rita.dot.gov/utc/publications/spotlight/spotlight_2015_08
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Rajaei is working on a CHPP research project that is studying how to optimize the tradeoff between grip and rolling resistance on pavement preservation treatments. The project focuses on the functionality of pavement treatments while seeking to improve safety, energy savings, and environmental benefits. For the average U.S. consumer the economic impact of grip and rolling resistance on the country's 3.95 million miles of public roads can be significant.
Rolling resistance is a major factor in fuel consumption, Rajaei explained. A 3 percent annual reduction in fuel consumption would save U.S. consumers an estimated 4 to 6 billion gallons of fuel per year.
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Using computer simulations and experimental analysis, the researchers are studying the effect of tire properties and pavement surface characteristics. The goal is to quantify an optimized rolling resistance on the roughness spectrum, which ranges in texture from mega to macro, meso, micro, and eventually nano.
OK if mods want to move this thread to Frictional Highways :-}