Q:How are new tires tested? How much testing is done on a computer? In real life? How has this changed in the past few years?
A: Computer simulations are often used to virtually assess key performance attributes of a proposed tire design. But physical testing on special equipment, then later on vehicles at test tracks, must always be conducted to rigorously guarantee the quality and performance of Michelin tires.
Improvement in computer technology allows the use of ever more powerful and sophisticated software to design innovative and better performing tires, but there is still no substitute for the accuracy, reliability and thrills of on vehicle testing.
Michelin operates test tracks in France, Spain and the United States and utilizes, as needed, other facilities around the world to meticulously test each of its products in the most requiring conditions.
Q:Are those wild looking 'Tweels' ever going to be mass produced?
A: Tweel is an extraordinary concept which clearly illustrates that technology can also be exciting! Michelin is currently assessing how to best incorporate this highly popular innovation in its future product offering. The first Tweel application expected in the market is for light construction equipment (skidsteers) in about two years.
Q:Is it possible for a tire to help a vehicle save fuel?
A: Tires contribute significantly to a vehicle's fuel consumption through their rolling resistance. The construction and materials used in the design of a tire greatly influence its rolling resistance. Michelin used the latest materials, architecture and processes in its tires to insure the lowest possible rolling resistance, and therefore the best possible fuel economy, for each application.
Maintaining the recommended inflation pressure is critical to obtain the best possible fuel economy from your vehicle as well.
Q:Building a car can present numerous trade-off's: for instance fuel economy versus power, comfort versus handling, and so on. Is there a common trade-off you experience in developing car tires? If so, how is it dealt with?
A: The trade-off's in designing tires are often comparable to those encountered by vehicle manufacturers. For example, high performance tires are designed to grip the road in most circumstances and will therefore wear faster than other tires. But, pending the use of proper technology, these trade-off's can be minimized. Michelin engineers continuously develop new solutions to provide an impeccable balance of performances allowing drivers to enjoy comfort and handling, durability and fuel economy and much more in every Michelin tire they design.
Bob Miron, a native of Candiac Quebec, is currently Director of Technical Marketing for Original Equipment tires in North America and lives with his family in Greenville, South Carolina.
photo:Michelin
A: Computer simulations are often used to virtually assess key performance attributes of a proposed tire design. But physical testing on special equipment, then later on vehicles at test tracks, must always be conducted to rigorously guarantee the quality and performance of Michelin tires.
Improvement in computer technology allows the use of ever more powerful and sophisticated software to design innovative and better performing tires, but there is still no substitute for the accuracy, reliability and thrills of on vehicle testing.
Michelin operates test tracks in France, Spain and the United States and utilizes, as needed, other facilities around the world to meticulously test each of its products in the most requiring conditions.
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| Michelin Tweel Concept |
Q:Are those wild looking 'Tweels' ever going to be mass produced?
A: Tweel is an extraordinary concept which clearly illustrates that technology can also be exciting! Michelin is currently assessing how to best incorporate this highly popular innovation in its future product offering. The first Tweel application expected in the market is for light construction equipment (skidsteers) in about two years.
Q:Is it possible for a tire to help a vehicle save fuel?
A: Tires contribute significantly to a vehicle's fuel consumption through their rolling resistance. The construction and materials used in the design of a tire greatly influence its rolling resistance. Michelin used the latest materials, architecture and processes in its tires to insure the lowest possible rolling resistance, and therefore the best possible fuel economy, for each application.
Maintaining the recommended inflation pressure is critical to obtain the best possible fuel economy from your vehicle as well.
Q:Building a car can present numerous trade-off's: for instance fuel economy versus power, comfort versus handling, and so on. Is there a common trade-off you experience in developing car tires? If so, how is it dealt with?
A: The trade-off's in designing tires are often comparable to those encountered by vehicle manufacturers. For example, high performance tires are designed to grip the road in most circumstances and will therefore wear faster than other tires. But, pending the use of proper technology, these trade-off's can be minimized. Michelin engineers continuously develop new solutions to provide an impeccable balance of performances allowing drivers to enjoy comfort and handling, durability and fuel economy and much more in every Michelin tire they design.
Bob Miron, a native of Candiac Quebec, is currently Director of Technical Marketing for Original Equipment tires in North America and lives with his family in Greenville, South Carolina.
photo:Michelin