Michelin conducted the first public test of its Uptis Prototype (Unique Puncture-proof Tire System) on a Mini Electric. This airless tire system eliminates the dangerous risk of flat tires and blowouts, making drivers of passenger vehicles feel safer on the road. Operators of these vehicles minimize downtime and improve efficiency resulting from flat tires as well as near-zero levels of maintenance. Read more for two videos and additional information.
Uptis is just the first step in the company’s VISION Concept, which features airless technology that eliminates the risk of punctures and reduces environmental impact. The airless tire system has been completely re-engineered for today’s passenger vehicles, and could also be suited to emerging forms of mobility, whether they be autonomous, all-electric, shared service or other applications.
- The Ultimate Drifting Machine
- Features variable speed foot pedal acceleration reaches speeds up to 12 mph
- Drift Bar allows drivers to completely control their drifts, spins, and cornering
The truly distinctive structure of the MICHELIN Uptis prototype, or its ‘weirdness’ as we have often heard it called, really attracted the attention of many visitors and left a lasting impression on them. It was an exceptional experience for us, and our greatest satisfaction came at the end of the demonstration when our passengers, who were admittedly a little wary at first, said they felt no difference compared with conventional tires,” said Cyrille Roget, Michelin Group Technical and Scientific Communications Director.
