Conventional car and truck tyres are inflated with high-pressure air. This is what gives them their flexible function. This allows the tyres to support the weight of the vehicle and also absorb impact from the road surface. They work on virtually the same principle as an inflated ball. Obviously, if the tyre is not inflated properly, you may have trouble driving.

It’s practically the same as a ball. You can’t play the sport with a badly inflated ball either. Tires can go flat for several reasons. For example, it could just be a faulty valve that just needs replacing, but it could also be a puncture from something sharp on the road. Then the tyre needs to be patched or even replaced. Tyre punctures may soon be a thing of the past. The big and well-known tyre brands around the world are developing airless tyres.

The airless concept

There is a new technology that eliminates the need to inflate tyres. This is because they are compounded using a unique structure of spokes that run along the inside of the tyres. The technology is really advantageous as it makes the tyres require less maintenance and the potential for a puncture is virtually zero. The spokes are able to bend and change shape as you drive.

Airless tyres are tested

Nowadays, similar types of tyres are already used for small vehicles. For example, on golf carts or lawnmowers. But large tyre manufacturers have also started testing them on larger vehicles. So it is very likely that in a few years we will see cars on the road with a new type of tyre that will have a number of advantages.

━━ ( Source: Iaremenko /  iStockphoto )

Advantages of airless tyres

The main advantage is probably obvious. No punctures. There is no air in the tyres, so they also require much less maintenance. Plus, you probably won’t need to change the tyres as often. For drivers, new tyres will also be more economical. And as a bonus, there will be less waste. Unfortunately, Michelin has said that it is currently impossible to know how long airless tyres will last.

However, it is already clear that they should be checked after five years. However, the non-air-filled tyres are expected to last three times longer than conventional tyres. As the tyres will also be more durable than the current ones, there will be no need to carry spare tyres. This means the cars will save fuel and extend battery life. And, of course, there will also be more space in the car.

Disadvantages of airless tyres

The new type of tyre has a high suspension and so can absorb shock in rough terrain, which can lead to a rougher ride. They also have more resistance and this can affect battery life and range. For vehicles with internal combustion engines, this could lead to higher fuel consumption and could increase CO2 emissions. When driving, tyres can cause vibrations due to contact with the road. And due to durability and materials, the purchase price will be much higher.