YOKOHAMA's Technology
Supporting Future MobilityConcept tire with high load capacity for a small tire
Tires
When fully autonomous vehicles are realized in the near future, mobility is expected to become more diversified. For example, we may see vehicles with larger interior space for passenger comfort and vehicles with lower floors to accommodate large amounts of luggage. In addition, vehicle electrification is expected to make more effective use of space in addition to making vehicles environment-friendly.
What kind of tires will be most suitable for these next-generation vehicles?
Here at Yokohama Rubber, we think one answer to that question is "small tires with high load capacity." We therefore are now conducting R&D to greatly increase the load capacity of small tires. Our concept tire now under development basically has two key features.
A tire structure able to withstand high internal pressure and carry heavy loads
One effective way to support a vehicle carrying heavy loads is to use tires with high internal pressure (i.e., tire air pressure). However, simply using high internal pressure can reduce the safety of the tire as a pressure vessel. In our concept tire, high internal pressure is achieved by increasing the rigidity of each component (carcass, belts, bead wire) that makes up the tire casing (tire’s inner structure).
In addition, to minimize tire damage caused by cyclic deformation when carrying high loads, the profile shape of the tire side and tread have been optimized. This has enhanced the tire’s load durability.
A tread pattern that enhances wear resistance, wet performance and quietness
We have developed a new tread pattern that achieves excellent wear resistance under high loads, while providing high levels of wet performance and quietness.
- The pattern’s extremely small groove area and expanded surface contact area disperse contact pressure and reduce localized wear.
- The use of variable width circumferential grooves that contribute to pattern rigidity and drainage performance enhances the tire’s wear resistance and wet performance
- Positioning of the circumferential grooves and different lug groove designs on the tire’s inner and outer sides contribute to its excellent wet performance and quietness while maintaining pattern rigidity
In addition, considering that next-generation vehicles will have to be more harmonious with the environment and people’s lives, we assume they must have a shape that delivers a quieter ride and reduces splashing in rainy weather. We expect the design of future vehicles will take these needs into consideration and, for example, have larger fenders (mudguards) that cover the upper part of the tire. Accordingly, the positioning of the brand logo on the concept tire’s side is upside down when compared with normal tires, making it visible and readable at the bottom of the tire’s rotation.
As vehicles and mobility continue to change, the performance required of tires also will change. Yokohama Rubber will continue to anticipate future needs and promote the development of tire technologies that meet those needs in a timely fashion.
