The concept of an airless tire is gaining traction.
Michelin and General Motors Co. plan to bring the Uptis, which stands for Unique Puncture-proof Tire System, to passenger vehicles by 2024, the companies announced Tuesday at the Movin' On Summit for sustainable mobility.
Uptis tires do away with the traditional sidewall and inflation, through the use of a resin-embedded fiberglass webbing that helps carry the load and is supposed to offer the same ride comfort as traditional tires, Michelin said.
The technology reduces maintenance, such as having to regularly check tire pressure, which can cause uneven wear and increased fuel consumption. It also eliminates the risk of tire punctures and blowouts.
The tire technology also reduces the use of raw materials and energy needed to make replacement and spare tires, company officials said.
A fleet of Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicles will be fitted with the tires later this year and tested throughout Michigan with a goal of using the tires on passenger vehicles by 2024. No specific production car models have been named.
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