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from the do-they-still-work-as-kid's-swings? dept.
Now, Hankook has completed initial testing on its fifth-generation airless tire, dubbed the iFlex. The tires do not require any air pressure, instead relying on a new type of eco-friendly material (Hancook demurs when asked for details). Geometric shapes built into the material provide the bounce and springiness normally provided by air pressure. But, unlike the previous iFlex, this version's designed to mount onto a traditional rim, making it compatible with current vehicles.
Hankook ran the iFlex through a battery of tests to compare it to more conventional rubber, measuring durability, hardness, stability, slalom and speed, at up to 80 mph. The company says the tires matched conventional tires in terms of performance.
Anyone who got a flat from the epidemic of potholes this Spring or who is plagued by nails and other road debris that cause slow leaks will welcome this development. Naturally, the real question is whether it's spelled, "tire" or "tyre."
Original Submission
(Score: 2) by Gravis on Thursday July 16 2015, @11:35AM
i think the holdup is most likely an issue with durability. either turning causes too much stress which leads to a rapid breakdown or they are too effective and last much longer and thus cutting into their profits. however, it might be a safety issue. i mean, when one of these tires finally dies, does the entire wheel tear apart, resulting in your car being on the ground? this may be why they redesigned it to go on a rim. however, i think it's entirely possible that they are just coasting off their current business and dont want to "spoil a good thing".