The term "sustainable mobility" is likely to become increasingly common as we work to find ways to make transportation have less impact on the environment. This year, Michelin and GM have teamed up to develop a wheel without air, without punctures.
The prototype Uptis (Unique Punctureproof Tire System) is the joint product developed by the two companies with the common goal of introducing airless wheels in vehicles in 2024.
To ensure durability and long-term safety, the product will be subjected to intense testing, starting with a fleet of test vehicles that will be monitored as of the end of this year. The selection of Chevrolet Bolt EVs will hit the road in Michigan while monitoring their performance.
The airless design eliminates the possibility of tire blowouts, which obviously increases the safety of the vehicles.
In addition to safety, another goal is to change the future of tire design for the good of the planet. At present, the waste from manufacturing and post-consumption of tires is a growing environmental concern. Michelin estimates that approximately 200 million tires worldwide are scrapped prematurely each year as a result of punctures, or due to road damages or inadequate atmospheric pressure that cause uneven wear. However, this waste is reduced with a tire that does not require air pressure and that does not deflate due to a puncture.
The new design is based on four pillars of innovation: airless, connected, printed in 3-D and manufactured in a sustainable way from renewable materials or sustainable sources.
More information: www.michelin.com