Michelin says its puncture-proof, airless tire, the Uptis is a go for production by 2024. The system is now being extensively tested on public roads, and Chevrolet could be one of the first to use it.
An abbreviation of “Unique Puncture-Proof Tire System,” the Uptis combines an aluminum wheel with a load-bearing structure made of glass-fiber reinforced plastic as well as flexible rubber composites. While it’ll make it virtually impossible to choose a different wheel design (sorry modders), they do fit in conventional hubs.
According to Michelin, the puncture-proof design makes the Uptis better for the environment. The French tiremaker found that 20 percent of all tires discarded prematurely is down to flats and rapid pressure loss, as well as irregular wear due to incorrect inflation. This totals 200 million wasted tires all in all.
Aside from bringing the Uptis to market, Michelin is also working to improve the sustainability of its products. This year, they plan to use 30 percent of tire components sourced from natural, recycled, or sustainable sources.
Other innovations considered include a rechargeable tread where worn treads can be revitalized through additive rubber 3D printing as well as connected tires where data can gathered from the tire to improve its safety and performance.
I wonder if the side wall exposed like that could make the tire susceptible to gravels or some debris embedded inside the gaps of the tire.
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