The new airless tires, which have been under development for several years, were unveiled at the IAA Mobility 2021 in Munich. The airless tire, called Uptis, have increased wear resistance, they cannot be punctured and, as a result, they have an increased service life.
The first announcement of Michelin airless tires was made 16 years ago. Only by September 2021, the company was able to present a ready-made technology that would allow the serial production of Uptis tires to begin. The first vehicles with optional Michelin Uptis tires will be offered by the automaker GM in 2024. Today, Michelin is going through all the necessary licensing and certification procedures for the Uptis airless tires to be produced.
According to Michelin research, over 200 million tires deteriorate each year in their first year of use due to uneven wear, punctures or cuts that make repair impossible. This figure is up to 20% of all tires produced. The new Uptis tires are designed to withstand higher impact loads and cannot be punctured. As a result, the tire life will increase.
Uptis tires require the purchase of special wheels, but while driving, the driver and passengers will not feel the difference between the traditional tires and Uptis. Several car enthusiasts have already tested the new airless tires on Mini Electric cars and noted that they did not notice any peculiarities during their use.
