Goodyear Tire Concepts Make Electricity, Adjust to Road Conditions

Two tire technologies one that generates electricity and one that adjusts the tread to optimize grip under various road conditions have been unveiled at the Geneva auto show by Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.

The company's BHO3 concept uses special materials that tap heat produced as the tire's sidewalls flex to generate electricity. Goodyear says the unspecified materials also help optimize the tire's rolling resistance. The company envisions the technology helping to extend the range of electric vehicles.

The second experimental tire, dubbed Triple Tube, embeds three separate tubes at the center and inner and outer edges of the tread. An internal pump in the tire moves air from the main air chamber to one or more of the tubes depending upon road conditions.

Inflating all three tubes maximizes fuel efficiency by lowering rolling resistance. Inflating only the center tube improved wet-weather performance by reducing aquaplaning. Inflating the two outer tubes expands the tire's contact patch with the road to maximize grip in dry operating conditions. Goodyear has not indicated whether it plans to commercialize either technology.