A tire that never has to be inflated

Over the past hundred years, the technology for the production of automobile wheels and tires has changed beyond recognition. Despite this, the basic principle remains the same: tire manufacturers make tires, wheel manufacturers make wheels, car manufacturers make the hubs on which these wheels are mounted.

But some companies are already experimenting with autopilot robotic taxis that will only work at moderate speeds and only in cities. Their tires do not need speed and maximum traction in corners. But on the other hand, they should be economical, quiet, comfortable and, most importantly, one hundred percent safe and reliable.

This is what the innovative CARE system, which Continental introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show, takes care of. This is a complex solution in which for the first time tires, wheels and hubs are developed by one manufacturer.

Tires have electronic sensors that constantly provide data on tread depth, possible damage, temperature and tire pressure. Data is transmitted wirelessly via a Bluetooth connection, which reduces wheel weight.

At the same time, a special ring is built into the rim, which absorbs vibrations before they are transmitted through the hub to the car. This gives exceptional ride comfort.
Equally innovative is the idea of ​​automatically adapting tire pressure.

The wheels have built-in pumps that are activated by centrifugal movement of the wheel and generate compressed air. The system not only allows you to always maintain the required tire pressure, but also adapts if, for example, you use a car to transport heavy loads. You will never have to check or inflate tires manually.