GM and Airfree Tires

[jim]

https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/michelin-gm-future-tires/

I think it's the next BIG breakthrough in vehicles. Imagine no more flats. (most new cars have no spare). No air pressure monitoring and filling, better low rolling resistance, more miles out of your tires, less bump going over pot holes and speed bumps and no accidents from an out of control car with a flat.
I already have air free tires on my citizen bike, Specialized has air free tires on their alibi model bike, Polaris has air free tires on their ATV.

What do you think?

 

[electriceddy]

https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/michelin-gm-future-tires/

I think it's the next BIG breakthrough in vehicles. Imagine no more flats. (most new cars have no spare). No air pressure monitoring and filling, better low rolling resistance, more miles out of your tires, less bump going over pot holes and speed bumps and no accidents from an out of control car with a flat.
I already have air free tires on my citizen bike, Specialized has air free tires on their alibi model bike, Polaris has air free tires on their ATV.

What do you think?

Somewhat reminiscent of the Tweel back in 2005:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tweel
Disadvantages with that type was more road noise, vibration and more friction.
With newer materials hopefully these will be overcome. I like the idea being open to eject water and reduce hydroplane affects adversely I don't like the idea of mud and rocks getting stuck in the ribs (throw off balance etc)
And then there's the question of what to do with the TPMS sensors?

 

[larrenz]

They look interesting, but what will happen if small rocks get into them?

 

[electriceddy]

They look interesting, but what will happen if small rocks get into them?

With the advancement in material composition and design I am hopeful that a more solid sidewall will reject accumulation of debris within the ribs .

 

[jim]

Yes the final public version should have a sidewall covering them to prevent small rocks, sand ,snow and any other material from getting in them. That would not only clog them up but spoil the balance.

 

[electriceddy]

Yes the final public version should have a sidewall covering them to prevent small rocks, sand ,snow and any other material from getting in them. That would not only clog them up but spoil the balance.

So long as there is still ventilation or equalization so as to avoid the need for air pressure differences between each rib pocket ( then we would be back to square 1)