A surface modified and functionalized carbon black for use in a rubber compound suitable for tire tread compounds which can be described as a surface modified low hysteresis carbon black. The modified carbon black contains a chemical consisting of at least one amine group and at least one thiol group and/or di- and/or polysulfidic linkage. The surface modified low hysteresis carbon black in a representative rubber tire tread compound shows improved rolling resistance, improved wet traction, and improved or maintained abrasion resistance, being superior to compounds containing N234 carbon black or silica. The improved tire rolling resistance obtained by using a compound containing a surface modified low hysteresis carbon black is highly desirable for reduced CO2 emissions, reduced pollution, sustainability, and protection of the environment.