Tires that are environmentally friendly, meet high performance standards and support Missouri’s number one agricultural crop are rolling in the capital city. They’re from Goodyear’s soy-based lines, where a portion of the tires’ petroleum content is replaced by renewable soybean oil.

The Cole County Sheriff’s Department is now nine months into testing a set designed specifically for law enforcement.

Kyle Durham, a farmer and chairman of the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council board of directors, says, “Developing new uses for soy while simultaneously addressing challenges our partners face is key to realizing the bright future for Missouri’s top crop, soybeans. The soy-based tires are an exciting example of the innovation we’re proud to drive through farmers’ investments in their soy checkoff, and we appreciate the partnership from law enforcement in putting this technology to work.”

The Cole County Sheriff’s Department purchased a set of Goodyear Eagle Enforcer tires and installed the tires July 30, 2020, on a 2019 Dodge Charger patrol vehicle used by a deputy for traffic enforcement, community assistance and emergency response. A second set of the soy-based tires was installed on another Dodge Charger this spring.

Cole County Sheriff John Wheeler said the first set of Goodyear Eagle Enforcer tires currently has 22,000 miles of service, with no reported issues. “This has been a positive experience, and we expect to continue with the soy-based tires,” he says.

The Department averages 25,000 miles per year on patrol vehicles, rotates tires regularly and replaces tires after 40,000 miles. The Department is currently considering adding a third set of the soy-based tires to its trial to be installed on a Ford Police Interceptor.

The Goodyear Eagle Enforcer soy-based tires have been available in a limited range of sizes since 2019, promoted through a partnership with the United Soybean Board, soybean farmers and the soy checkoff. The Eagle Enforcer tire is designed specifically for law-enforcement use, combining the traction and tread-life benefits of the soy-based tire with performance features necessary for demanding operating conditions.

Photo courtesy the Cole County Sheriff’s Department.