Tesla is reportedly in discussions with Michelin to test the company’s next-generation airless tires, as confirmed by Michelin CEO Florent Menegaux in an interview with Not a Tesla App.
Menegaux indicated that Michelin is considering testing the upcoming Uptis (Unique Puncture-Proof Tire System) tires on Tesla’s vehicles. These tires are expected to offer significantly longer lifespan than traditional tires and are designed to resist punctures due to their flexible, open-cell structure.
See also: Michelin Unveils New Tire Ranges for All-Electric Porsche Macan
The Uptis tires, which are currently in the prototype phase, have been undergoing testing on the Chevy Bolt. Michelin has also been in talks with General Motors (GM) to explore the possibility of testing them on other electric vehicles (EVs) in GM’s lineup.
Today, we presented along with @GM a new generation of airless wheel technology for passenger vehicles – the MICHELIN® Uptis Prototype or “Unique Puncture-proof Tire System”. Learn more about our newest innovation – https://t.co/IQhkFuHmQn #MovinOnConnect #MichelinTakesAction pic.twitter.com/KzL1ssMmua
— Michelin USA (@MichelinUSA) June 4, 2019
While specific details about the availability of Uptis tires for consumers remain unclear, Not a Tesla App suggests they could be introduced to the market by the end of this year.
Menegaux hinted that the application of these airless tires might be limited to certain use cases, without specifying further. However, reports indicate that airless tires could be particularly beneficial for electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous vehicles.
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Several other companies, including Bridgestone, Hankook, and Goodyear, are also developing their own versions of airless tires. Goodyear, for instance, tested one of its airless tire prototypes on Tesla vehicles in 2021.
These discussions come as Tesla prepares to unveil a robotaxi platform in August, based on its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system.
