I got this in an email about a new tire in development. They don't require any air or pressure adjustments, cannot go flat, and are apparently immune to spike strips. The other pics are of a test run of these on an Audi. They are supposed to be available for regular consumer use in the next few years...
Even worse, these are in development:
I think they could be bennificial if they closed up the sidewalls, otherwise they are ugly. No word on how they add up in treadwear, durability, traction, handeling, etc.
I saw these last summer. Michelin is doing research on them. They won't be out for cars for a while, but they'll be used for off-road applications soon.
I think it's a fantastic idea: the flexible "spokes" are 2-D, so they are very stiff laterally, meaning super-crisp handling, but great straight-line grip. Also no more flats!
No more flats...good idea. Tweels... They're not very nice looking at all. Hopefully they will come up with a nicer looking design before marketing them.
I've read about these. Its good that you don't have to worry about a tire going flat, but you will feel every bump in the road since there is no cushion of air to ride on. Also the aerodynamics of the "tweel" are not as good as a closed version.
A better idea is to integrate the two types of tires(air and airless) so you have the benefits of both tires. Don't have to worry about a flat or getting a massage when your driving.
My ride(Cardomain link) :
'95 Contour 16V Zetec DOHC, Teal , ATX
Born on Sep. 4, 1995
86+ miles
*LEDs mods are on their way!*
Originally posted by morbid: They probably left the sidewalls off to compensate for the additional weight of the "spokes". Any mention of how much they weigh?
No, no mention of that. My guess is that since they are in development, they left the sidewalls out to show the internals. If these go the way of Run Flats, showing up on higher model cars, they will probably put a sidewall on them.
these are old news... but still cool... i'm sure they could put thin rubber on the sides to cover the "spokes" and have it look like a standard tire...
They're not very nice looking at all. Hopefully they will come up with a nicer looking design before marketing them. 
