When the idea of an airless tire was first introduced to the public, it looked like an early revolution in car tires around the world. However, the development brought problems and in the eyes of the public the concept went into the box of futuristic “fit for science fiction, not for real roads”.
The main problem is the transfer of driving characteristics and comfort. The air in a classic tire contributes to the absorption of shocks and vibrations and at the same time helps to keep its shape when lateral forces are applied. Michelin develops Uptis airless tire more than twenty years and it looks like it might finally reach series production. 2024 seems likely.
Michelin pro The Drive he said that the tire passed the tests at 200 km/h. It doesn’t say which cars were tested, but trials have taken place with the Chevrolet Bolt in the past, and DHL has tested 30 Toyota HiAces in real-world traffic in Singapore. For unusual reasons, police officers from an unnamed European country also praise Uptis: “When we’re chasing the bad guys, they usually shoot out our tires before they leave.” This would not be possible with an airless tire.
Airless tires are also suitable for fully autonomous cars, because in the event of a puncture, they naturally cannot change the tire themselves. In addition, their relaxed driving style does not stress the tires, so they last longer.
This is how Michelin showed how Uptis can deal with mud. Even if it dries inside the holes, after a few revolutions it will peel off and look out. It is said to be similar with snow and ice.
Uptis tires are more durable and significantly more resistant to damage. Michelin says this alone would produce 20% fewer tires. Also, less raw materials are needed during production, which contributes to the ecology of the process. Another advantage is the stable hardness, there is no need to monitor the air pressure. Of course, Michelin does not brag much about the disadvantages, but behind the scenes there is talk of problems with objects and materials entering the perforated sides. Only practice will show the real applicability.
In addition to the IZS components, Michelin is also negotiating with General Motors and Tesla. Uptis tires will function as an alternative to traditional tires, mass deployment is not expected yet.
2023-05-06 14:45:28
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