Bridgestone Shows Airless Tire Concept

[02JEEPX]

December 06, 2011
The tire employs a mesh of thermoplastic resin spokes that support its tread. All tread and inner components are produced using 100% recyclable materials.
Michelin has its Tweel, Goodyear the lunar Spring Tire, and now Bridgestone has unveiled its own airless tire.
At the Tokyo Motor Show, Bridgestone\'s take on the airless concept was shown, and employs a mesh of thermoplastic resin spokes that support the tire’s tread.

The spokes are positioned tangentially from the tire’s center and the outer tread layer is made from tire rubber; all tread and inner components are produced using 100% recyclable materials, Bridgestone states.

The airless tire concept has been produced in a 9-inch diameter and is undergoing testing on a one-seat electric vehicle. Bridgestone says initial tests have been successful and have shown the tire to deliver a comfortable, low-noise ride. No firm plans to commercially produce the tire or a potential retail price have been announced. (Tyres & Accessories)