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If you have ever thought about the future of automobile production, one thing that you probably have not thought about is the type of wheels that will go on futuristic automobiles. On the contrary, Michelin has introduced new wheels that are not really wheels at all, but they're called Tweels.
These Tweels are so named because they are a combination of wheels and tires that are placed on the car. They are much different from the pneumatic tires that everyone is used to and the very fact that Tweels are so much different means that there will need to be major changes that take place before the entire tire industry switches over.
Nevertheless, Tweels are excellent at providing a safe alternative to normal pneumatic tires. Tweels are not air-filled like pneumatic tires are and they don't have anything at all to do with an air tube.
This would mean that they need to be more flexible than regular tires are and that they need to withstand a whole lot more pressure. Michelin has considered both of these issues and have successfully made Tweels so that they are made to last with durable parts.
Benefits of the Tweel Airless Tires
Tweels can be purchased directly from Michelin and are specifically made to fit your automobile. Tweels fit directly on the wheel axle and the Tweel is composed of the hub, the nearly indestructible spokes, as well as the sheer band that runs the length of the spokes. The part that comes in contact with the road is the sheer band, but the spokes are the component of the Tweel that actually absorbs most of the contact from the road is the spokes.
However, the sheer band and spokes are very durable, which means that they spring back into action after they're driven on. Handling and comfort of the Tweels actually improve their performance. In fact, if the spokes are made with more durability and pliancy then the handling and comfort of the car actually increases.
Downsides of the Michelin Tweel
The Tweel should be considered a revolutionized tire and wheel combined, still, there are several downsides to the Tweel industry. For example, the switchover from pneumatic tires to Tweels would be a major change for the entire automobile industry.
Because Tweels are so much different than regular tires, auto repair shops would be in trouble, as well as any person that needed to change the size of their Tweels. Tweels can only be produced for the size of your car so more would need to be ordered from the manufacturer if you found out that they didn't fit your car.
But nevertheless, Tweels are definitely wheels of the future for automobiles. The current Tweels can even produce the same amount of fuel efficiency that regular tires do, but as time goes on Michelin will be sure to increase their performance.
Even though Michelin doesn't plan on marketing Tweels to the public anytime soon, you can bet that they definitely will be seen in the future of automobile production in the future!