Airless Tire Technology
New Uptis Prototype
In a recent press release, General Motors and Michelin announced that they will be working together on a joint research project to offer new airless wheel technology for passenger vehicles called Uptis (Unique Puncture-proof Tire System). A new generation of tires for more sustainable mobility. The Uptis Prototype will be tested starting with vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EV. They expect to start real-world testing later this year in Michigan. Their goal is to offer Uptis on passenger models as early as 2024.
The breakthrough airless tire will eliminate dangerous risks of flat tires and blowouts to help drivers feel safer on the road, minimize downtime due to flat tires and near-zero levels of maintenance for vehicle fleets, and large environmental savings through reduced use of raw materials. With approximately 200 million tires being scrapped every year as a result of punctures or damage, the equivalent of the weight of 200 Eiffel Towers, this innovative new tire will have extraordinary environmental savings.
Michelin’s VISION concept for a future of sustainable mobility through four pillars of innovation: airless, connected, 3D-printed and 100% sustainable is well on the way to being achieved with the innovative technology of Uptis.
“General Motors is excited about the possibilities that Uptis presents, and we are thrilled to collaborate with Michelin on this breakthrough technology,” said Steve Kiefer, senior vice president, global purchasing and supply chain, General Motors. “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.”