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London: The misery of stopping at the side of the road to change a flat tyre could soon be a thing of the past.
Manufacturer Bridgestone has developed a prototype of airless tyre that never goes flat.
The airless tyre uses a special plastic resin that is weaved into a mesh of spokes that help to support the tread of the tyre, and also makes sure it doesn’t collapse under the weight of the vehicle.
The pattern of the spokes also plays a key part in assuring that it does not collapse, performing the function air pressure does in regular tyres.
Furthermore, the tyre’s resin is made of a plastic that can be repeatedly recycled and is therefore better for the environment. The tread is also made from recycled material.
Bridgestone, who are the world’s largest tyre and rubber company, say the ‘non-pneumatic’ tyre is at an early stage of development but it should eventually be available in retail vehicles.
The company unveiled its concept at the 42nd Tokyo motor show, which took place last month.
“There is no need to periodically refill the tyres with air, meaning they require less maintenance,” the Daily Mail quoted a Bridgestone spokesman as saying.
“At the same the worry of punctures is eliminated. Non-pneumatic tyres have less impact on the environment than today’s conventional tyres.
“Bridgestone developed this technology with the aim of practical implementation. The concept tyre could prove to be a viable and more environmentally-friendly alternative to conventional tyres in the future,” he added.
ANI
