It’s been a long time coming, but the first wave of commercial air-free tyres is finally set to make its debut. Michelin has announced an ambitious partnership with General Motors in the United States, with the goal of bringing the all-new Unique Puncture-Proof Tire System (UPTIS) into mainstream production by 2024.

When the new tyres hit the roads, they won’t look anything like the tyres you’ve seen to date.

The remarkable UPTIS prototype is already being heavily tested in controlled conditions behind the scenes. So far, Michelin and General Motors have only tested the new system on the Chevrolet Bolt. However, they insist that testing processes will be brought into the real world by the end of 2019.

As for the motivation, tyre companies worldwide have been researching and developing air-free tyre technology for some time. The elimination of air immediately eliminates any and all consequences of unexpected blow-outs. Not to mention, breakdowns and journey interruptions due to punctures. Michelin also claims that airless systems like UPTIS are fundamentally safer and more economical in general than conventional tyres.

Airless tyre technology can also work wonders for the environment. As it stands, at least 20% of tyres scrapped each year are retired from use due to blowouts. With airless tyres, the overwhelming majority would be guaranteed to last for several years, without needing to be replaced or repaired.

The project is technically still in its prototype phase, but the two companies are confident we’ll be seeing the final product on public roads worldwide by 2024.

Take My Scrap Car

Here at Take My Scrap Car, we’re interested in more than just tyres that have seen better days. When there’s a car that’s no longer fit for use, we’re the people to call. We run a customer-focused car scrapping and recycling service for responsible motorists in Norfolk. Quite simply, we’ve eliminated all costs and hassle from the equation, when the time comes to scrap a vehicle. 

Out and about day and night, we’re happy to collect end-of-life vehicles from any location in Norfolk at any time. Whatever time and date suit your schedule is just fine by us! We’ll travel to your address, collect your vehicle and take it away for responsible recycling. Best of all, you won’t be charged a penny for any of the services we provide – guaranteed!

In fact, we’ll ensure you’re compensated fairly for doing the right thing. We calculate all scrap vehicle values in accordance with scrap metal prices on the day. Hence, you won’t find a better deal from any competing car scrapping and recycling service in the area. 

Whether ready to organise collection of a scrap vehicle or simply considering the options available to you, we’re standing by to take your call. Reach out to a member of the team at Take My Scrap Car anytime to learn more about our unique car scrapping services.