This set includes tools and materials that you can find at your local hardware store.
While electric cars are now the norm, we also have the potential for a major advancement in automotive technology: airless tires. We might soon see airless tires on production vehicles thanks to Michelin and the Uptis Unique Puncture-proof Tyre System (or Uptis). This is more likely with the next generation Chevrolet Bolt.
The Driven Media folks in the UK decided not to wait. They decided to create their own set airless tires from materials that can be bought at a local hardware shop. They also tested their creation on the track as well as on public applications.
The guys required a 14-inch steel wheel from a Ford Mondeo, 15 pieces cut freshwater pipes and small pipes that would work as anti-vibration to make the airless tires. Over 300 nuts and bolts were needed to fasten them together. What was the total cost? With current exchange rates, it is only PS300 per wheel or $397.
Driven Media used as a test vehicle a Caterham Seven. The vehicle weighed in at around 1,764 lbs (800 kg) and each wheel was roughly 200 kg (441 pounds). DIY airless tires were able carry this weight easily.
The presenters stated that the airless tires felt normal at slow speeds. However, as the speed increased, the peculiarities of the tire’s non-perfect circular shape became more apparent. The ride was rough and noisy.
The DIY airless tires passed all important tests and were therefore valid. Nothing happened in a puncture test with a bed made of nails. The tires obeyed in road tests that involved potholes and speed bumps.
Did the tires survive the drifting portion of the final track test? You can see the entire video by clicking here.