Although the EV technology, one thing that has remained the same for more than 100 years is the wheel. In 2019 Michelin announced airless tires and referred to the effort as a 'reinvention of the wheel.' Considering how many tires are used each year, a change like this would mark a major shift for both the industry and drivers.
Tires are mostly made of natural and synthetic rubbers, high-tech fabrics, and even steel. They come in various sizes, but all are filled with compressed air and use the same system to roll. Tires contaminate in many ways, from small bits degrading as cars drive, to sourcing materials and end-of-life cycles. Defective tires are also one of the leading causes of accidents on the road.
In an interview with future Chevrolet EVs. Considering models fitted with airless tires are likely to be affordable EVs, it's a sign that the innovation could become mainstream and used by everyone. While a firm delivery date was not provided, Alexis Garcin, president of Michelin North America told CNN Business, “it's going to happen now in the next three to five years.”
The Wheel, A Natural And Inevitable Innovation
The main challenge airless tires face is their ability to mimic the resistance and flexibility of compressed air tires. Many features of a car, especially suspension, are built with consideration of how compressed air works. Michelin is working to get the tire just right, but the company also needs to make sure different tire models work for different types of cars, from sports to SUVs and larger trucks. The new Uptis tire combines an aluminum wheel and a flexible load-bearing structure made from glass-fiber-reinforced plastic. It not only prevents risks, but also reduces environmental impact. The tire is being tested for speed, resistance, and endurance. Michelin will also use completely recycled and renewable materials for its production line.
Starting at $32,000, the Chevrolet Bolt is one of the best-selling EVs in the US. While GM has still not officially confirmed the new model, executives have. When the new wheels are available, Chevrolet drivers will no longer need to carry a spare tire, worry about air before hitting the highway, or about changing a flat. All changes that will improve the car industry and the experience for drivers.
Source: CNN Business, Michelin