"Michelin unwrapped an early prototype
of an airless tire, a product that could
change the face of an industry it helped
found. With a maximum safe speed of 170
miles per hour, the prototype performs
similarly to inflatable tires — with
important differences.

'No more pressure checks, no more flats,
no more spare wheels,' said Daniel
Laurent, Michelin director of conception
and development.

The tire is made from 115 rings of tough
resin laced with glass fiber and remains
roadworthy even when shot with a rifle.
Tests show it will outlast the average
car, Laurent said, leaving just the
outer treads to be replaced
periodically. No date has yet been set
for its commercial launch."

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