Although every driver knows they should do it regularly, how many can honestly say they check their tyres' pressure as often as they should? Probably very few. Fortunately, soon they may not have to as apparently; intelligent tyres are on their way.
What are intelligent tyres?
These tyres, which will be released as 'Cyber Tyres' can report their own condition by monitoring factors such as pressure, tread depth, temperature and the amount of weight they're under. They can also monitor road conditions such as how much grip the car should be able to achieve at that moment, for example in particular weather conditions. It then relays this information to the driver.
Developed by tyre manufacturers, Pirelli and Schrader Electronics, a developer of tyre sensors, they are being heralded by many as the future even for the everyday driver. Certainly, the importance of maintaining tyre condition for safety has been repeatedly stressed so continual updates will undoubtedly mean that cars on the road are in a safer condition. Also, combining information about their condition and the conditions of the road means that control of the vehicle's dynamics can be optimised at any given time as all the data is live.
How do intelligent tyres work?
Unlike current tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) which are mounted on the rim of tyres, these new type of tyre use a sensor that is mounted to their centre instead. This sensor transmits information wirelessly to the car's Engine Control Unit (and the driver) so that the data can then be relayed to the vehicle's other electronic systems such as the ABS and ESP.
Intelligent tyres and fuel efficiency
Being under inflated and inadequate tread are both characteristics which can negatively impact on the lifespan of a tyre and reduce its fuel efficiency. The intelligent types will therefore combat these effects as drivers who might not otherwise have checked their tyres religiously themselves, will have an accurate analysis of their condition at all times. This means that in the long run, car owners who spend more money having intelligent tyres fitted will probably save money eventually by reducing their fuel costs and getting a longer life out of their tyres.
When will intelligent tyres be available?
From 2009-2010 there was much talk about intelligent tyres on the internet with most sources suggesting that the 'Cyber Tyre' would be available this year, so where is it? Unfortunately talk of the tyres has somewhat quietened down but the tyres were unveiled at the International Motor Show in Geneva in 2009 so they have been some years in the making. Hopefully the finished article is just around the corner.
Fitting intelligent tyres to cars will ensure that drivers are more vigilant when it comes to tyre maintenance, something which is really important for safe driving. Tyre neglect and failure to carry out regular checks for damage or embedded items can be life threatening especially if a driver travels at high speed. With intelligent tyres in place, hopefully there will be a significant decrease in the number or accidents caused by weathered tyres.
Tim Machin runs Regas Boughton Monchelsea Medics, a mail order website where you can buy tyres online. Use the Tyre Medics mobile tyre fitting services at home or work to save time and money. Tyre Medics's also run a 24/7 emergency call out service for roadside tyre repair in the Leicester, Coventry, Rugby, Nuneaton and Hinckley areas.
