10
Patented solution allows the tire to change shape and footprint
from road to field
GREENVILLE, S.C., Dec. 1, 2016 —Michelin has developed a patented “2 in 1 tire” solution that adjusts pressure and usage, allowing farmers to operate more efficiently in the field or on the road. This new technology recently earned the prestigious 2017 Innovation Gold Medal at SIMA, the Paris International Agri-Business Show for high-performance and sustainable agriculture.
Working at ultra-low pressures while in the field, the tire’s contact patch increases in size up to 20 percent (1) to reduce soil compaction. While working at higher pressures on the road, the tire transforms so that only the central continuous tread band grips the pavement, resulting in a smoother, vibration-free ride, fuel savings and improved safety. This is great news for farmer’s who want the extra operational comfort but are challenged to deliver sustainable crop yields at affordable prices.
“It is a privilege to receive the SIMA Innovation Gold Medal on behalf of the dedicated, hardworking teams at Michelin,” said Emmanuel Ladent, Director of Michelin’s Agriculture Business Unit. “The ‘2 in 1 tire’ is a real game-changer. This is the latest in the line of innovative new tire technologies brought to the market by Michelin, such as Ultraflex technology and the Connected tire, and we eagerly anticipate the first presentation of this ‘2 in 1 tire’ at SIMA in March 2017.”
MICHELIN Ultraflex Technology, developed in 2004 with the introduction of the MICHELIN XEOBIB® tire, is the breakthrough mobility innovation for agriculture that makes the ever-increasing power and weight of today’s farm machinery more efficient. Michelin was the first tire manufacturer to introduce high-flexion tires in North America and the first tire in the industry rated by the U.S. Tire and Rim Association as “Increased Flexion” (IF).
Judged by a jury of international agriculture professionals, the SIMA 2017 Innovation Awards recognize new developments from the show’s exhibitors that demonstrate design and innovative features having the potential to offer significant user benefits. For more information visit www.MichelinAg.com, or contact your local Michelin Agriculture Tire dealer.
(1) Michelin internal comparison test (December 2014 & November 2015) between a ‘2 in 1’ Michelin tire with dimensions VF 710/70 R 42 and a Michelin AxioBib IF 710/70 R 42 to 0.8b and 5.6t.
About Michelin North America
Michelin, the leading mobility company, is dedicated to enhancing its clients’ mobility, sustainably; designing and distributing the most suitable tires, services and solutions for its clients’ needs; providing digital services, maps and guides to help enrich trips and travels and make them unique experiences; and developing high-technology materials that serve a variety of industries. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America (www.michelinman.com) has more than 21,400 employees and operates 19 major manufacturing plants.