The LIFEBIB VF 710/70 R42 concept tire from Michelin, features a pattern in the shape of an ear of wheat, presenting an alternative to the traditional V-shaped or herringbone-shaped tread that is familiar on farm machinery all over the world.
Michelin says that the tire’s unique tread pattern is a celebration of the life cycle, and emphasizes how the Michelin Ultraflex range can be used throughout the entire crop cycle, from the sowing to the harvesting of the product.
The wheat concept features a central rigid rubber block formed by the wheat grains, as well as side tapering for maximum precision, guidance and traction. The new concept tire has been developed as part of Michelin’s annual investment of more than 600m in R&D.
Mike Lawton, commercial director of Michelin’s agricultural tire division in the UK, Ireland and Nordics, said, “Changing needs, practices and uses push us to continually innovate. Farmers of the future face the substantial challenge of feeding ever increasing populations with less arable land available to them. As a result, tire and machinery choice is going to become ever more important in order to maximize yield.”
March 19, 2015
