The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (Goodyear) has recently introduced a revolutionary self-regenerating concept tyre, the Goodyear recharge that is said to adapt and change to meet individual mobility needs. The concept tyre is based on a reloadable/biodegradable tread compound that can be recharged with individual capsules, radically simplifying the process of replacing tyres and enhancing travel.
Goodyear explains that the tread compound would be made from tough spider silk, and so, would be naturally reinforced with fibres; this would make it both extremely durable and completely biodegradable. The rechargeable capsules are filled with a customised liquid compound such that enables regeneration of the tread.
In addition to simplifying the process of replacing tyres with the capsules, the tread would be supported by a lightweight, non-pneumatic frame that is tall and narrow. It was designed to be a thin, low-maintenance construction that would eliminate the need for pressure maintenance or downtime related to punctures.
These features will together allow the tyre to adapt over time to climatic circumstances, road conditions, or personal comfort, while artificial intelligence builds an individual driver profile,around which the liquid compound blend would be customised.
Sebastien Fontaine, Lead designer at the Goodyear Innovation Center in Luxembourg, concludes: “The Goodyear reCharge is a concept tyre without compromise, supporting personalised, sustainable and hassle-free electric mobility.”