Bridgestone developing new tyres that never go flat
By Denna Bowman
Punctured tyres are the bane of motorists lives, but now Bridgestone has announced it has developed a prototype that never goes flat.
The groundbreaking airless tyres use a special plastic resin that is weaved into a mesh of spokes that help to support the tread of the tyre and ensure it does not 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, according to the report in the Daily Mail.
An added bonus is that the tyres resin is made of a plastic that can be repeatedly recycled and is therefore better for the environment.
According to Bridgestone, 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.
A Bridgestone spokesman said: “There is no need to periodically refill the tyres with air, meaning they require less maintenance.
“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.”
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