Michelin and General Motors (GM) unveiled a 3D printed prototype tire representing a new generation of airless wheel technology at the Movin’On Summit for sustainable mobility in Montreal. The tire’s name Uptis stands for “Unique Puncture-proof Tire System” and was designed for use in passenger vehicles.
“Uptis demonstrates that Michelin’s vision for a future of sustainable mobility is clearly an achievable dream. Through work with strategic partners like GM, who share our ambitions for transforming mobility, we can seize the future today,” said Florent Menegaux, chief executive officer for Michelin Group.
At the Movin’On Summit two years ago, Michelin presented a strategy for achieving sustainable mobility, called its VISION concept. This concept introduces innovations such as 3D printing, airless technology, and sustainable materials. Uptis is certainly a step in the right direction.
Although this tire may roll the industry into the future, it looks like a regular old tire without the sidewalls. It also has treads in the middle and is completely airless.
Better for You and the Planet
Supposedly, this new tire is not only better for those who are tired of changing punctured tires but they’re also environmentally friendly due to the need to use fewer raw materials. Michelin states that the tire is 100% sustainable.
Furthermore, due to their airless nature, the tires last for longer than a traditionally-made tire meaning fewer will be thrown away. Currently, it’s estimated that 290 million tires are thrown away in the US yearly due to damage such as irregular wear.
“Uptis is an ideal fit for propelling the automotive industry into the future, and a great example of how our customers benefit when we collaborate and innovate with our supplier partners,” explains GM’s head of global purchasing and supply chain, Steve Kiefer, in a press release.
Michelin and GM will begin testing the tire on public roads in Michigan with Chevrolet Bolt EVs later this year. If testing is successful the tires will be available for purchase in 2024.
Source: Michelin
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