Daimler Aims to Control Tire Temperature

Daimler AG has applied for a patent in the U.K. for a system that sprays water on a vehicle's tires to help clear off ice and snow that can cause loss of traction during winter driving. It also could be used to cool down tires and prevent them from overheating in the summer.

The device would collect and store rain water, melting ice and snow—as well as water from a car wash—pooled at the base of a vehicle’s windshield and rear window. The water would be stored in a separate reservoir and warmed by engine heat to prevent freezing.

Sensors would continually monitor tire temperatures and compare them to outside temperatures to determine if the tires needed to be sprayed. This would be done by three nozzles at each tire. Another injector could be added to help cool the brakes, according to the patent.