Goodyear, the tire manufacturer, has unveiled a revolutionary new tire design at the 86th International Motor Show in Geneva. The tire is spherical in shape and is specifically designed for autonomous vehicles. This innovative design offers numerous advantages over traditional tires, particularly when it comes to parallel parking. Although the tire is currently just a concept, it is intended to inspire new ideas and is not expected to be available before 2030.
The Eagle-360, as Goodyear calls its spherical tire, is not connected to the car body in the traditional way. Instead, the tires are held in place by magnetic fields, similar to a maglev train. The tires are produced using a 3D printer and feature electric motors inside, which provide automatic propulsion. This means that an additional motor can be eliminated, freeing up space inside the vehicle. The spherical shape of the tires also allows for omnidirectional movement, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.
The Eagle-360 is not just a visually stunning tire, it is also intelligent. The tires are equipped with sensors that constantly gather data about road conditions and weather, which is then transmitted to other systems in the vehicle and to other drivers on the road. The tire’s unique grooves, inspired by sponges, allow it to adapt to different road surfaces and absorb moisture, providing better traction and reducing the risk of hydroplaning.
While the Eagle-360 may seem like something out of a science fiction movie, it represents a significant step forward in tire technology. Goodyear’s innovative design offers numerous advantages over traditional tires, particularly for autonomous vehicles. Although the tire is not expected to be available for several years, it is sure to inspire new ideas and innovations in the automotive industry.
