Bridgestone made its first-ever appearance at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on 7-10 January 2020. CES, an annual trade show, is a significant platform for global companies, organisations and pioneers to share brand-new products and technologies in the consumer electronics industry. As a first-time participant, we were proud to reveal the cutting-edge mobility solutions we’re currently working on, including airless tyres. 

The airless tyre concept

Bridgestone airless tyres are non-pneumatic, which means they use a unique spoke structure to eliminate the need for air in a tyre. This design enables the tyre to support the weight of different sized vehicles and removes the danger and downtime associated with a flat tyre, ultimately providing convenience, safety and peace of mind.

First introduced in 2013, Bridgestone engineers have continued to work on these airless tyres to meet daily driving challenges and create a safer journey for drivers. These airless tyres demonstrate our commitment to developing solutions that provide safety and uninterrupted mobility for all vehicles, including passenger vehicles and commercial fleet applications.

The advantages of an airless tyre

Say goodbye to flat tyres

Non-pneumatic tyres have no air to leak. Drivers will no longer have to experience the challenges that come with a punctured tyre, and instead continue their journey safely and without interruption.

Improved efficiency

Whether a truck is for farming, mining or shuttling products, tyre failure can cause a loss of productivity and efficiency. Airless tyres could eventually boost the productivity of industrial and commercial trucks and help fleet owners avoid downtime and save money.

Reduced CO2 emissions

About 90% of energy loss from tyre rolling resistance comes from repeated changes in the shape of the tyres as they roll. By simplifying the structure of the tyre, Bridgestone was able to minimise the energy loss in these “air-free concept tyres.” As a result, airless tyres have the same level of low rolling resistance as Bridgestone Ecopia tyres, a fuel-efficient range that achieves lower CO₂ emissions.

Efficient use of resources

The airless concept tyre is one of the initiatives aimed toward Bridgestone’s long-term vision to use sustainable materials. The materials used in the tyre are recyclable, contributing to the efficient use of resources.

The future is airless

Bridgestone is advancing the development of the air-free concept tyre – a more environmentally-friendly product than existing tyres – and aims to bring about commercial use in a wide range of vehicles in the future.