Goodyear’s reCharge self-regenerating concept tire can adapt and change to meet individual mobility needs. It features a number of innovations built around three pillars.
At the core of reCharge is a reloadable and biodegradable tread compound that can be recharged with individual capsules, radically simplifying the tire replacement process. Filled with a customized liquid compound, these capsules enable the tread to regenerate and the tire to adapt over time to climatic circumstances, road conditions, or simply to the mode of travel. Thanks to artificial intelligence, a driver profile could be created around which the liquid compound could be customized, generating a compound blend tailored to each driver.
The compound itself would be made from a biological material and would be reinforced with fibers inspired by one of the toughest natural materials in the world – spider silk. This would make it both extremely durable and 100% biodegradable.
The tread is supported by a lightweight, non-pneumatic frame and has a tall and narrow shape. This thin, robust and low-maintenance construction would eliminate the need for pressure maintenance or downtime related to punctures.
“The Goodyear reCharge is a concept tire without compromise, supporting personalized, sustainable and hassle-free electric mobility,” explained Sebastien Fontaine, lead designer at the Goodyear Innovation Centre in Luxembourg.
