Even tires are becoming technologically advanced. The latest Michelin tire, promise not to have air. Use of 3D printing, the technology was introduced by Michelin in 2017 and approved by those who have tried the product. Using the system Tire outsole with puncture protection (UPTIS), the tire will be available at the end of 2024, when the high-volume production of the product begins. No information on compatibility with wheels already on the market or pricing yet.

Visually, the tire resembles existing tyres, while the hollow-sided differentials give it a unique personality.

Airless tire? How is this possible?

Michelin is not releasing details as the tire is still in its testing phase. The UPTS prototype appeared in 2017 under the name Vision. At that time, the concept was already the same, a tire without air, connected, 3D printed and fabricated from conventional rubber and fiberglass.. Since then, the company has been improving the project, achieving the current result.

The Michelin system is similar to tires designed for lunar vehicles (yes, vehicles used in lunar operations). Instead of compressed air, the model has small fiberglass spokes supporting the tread. Thus making it puncture resistant, eliminating the need for a spare tire.

Promises that UPTIS intends to keep

• Minimize tire maintenance time by lowering the level to zero.
• Since it is a renewable material, society will benefit from the reduction of traditional raw materials.
• Drivers using this tire will feel safer on the road.

Competition to see who invents first

Not only Michelin is working on this innovation, other companies are also participating in this technology race, one of them is the Japanese Bridgestone, another giant in the segment, which introduced its airless bicycle tire in Japan in 2020, which debuted at the Tokyo Olympics. The manufacturer wants to be a pioneer with its model, launching the first airless tires for commercial vehicles and later for passenger cars. This should happen by 2023ahead of the Michelin.

Via: Airless tire that won’t puncture: Michelin and GM announce the launch of Uptis for 2024, Michelin and GM unveil a new tire that runs without air and won’t puncture Source: Michelin Uptis

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