A concept tyre has been unveiled by Goodyear at the 85th Geneva International Motor Show which has the potential to recharge the battery of an electric vehicle.
The tyre concept – named “BHO3” – offers the possibility of charging the batteries of electric cars by transforming the heat generated by the rolling tyre into electrical energy.
It features an ultra-black tread which can absorb energy from heat and sunlight; a thermoelectric layer underneath then uses this energy to generate electricity and transfers it to the battery.
The tyre also contain a piezoelectric material that can make electricity from the structural deformation of the rubber whilst the car is moving.
The system would work in a similar way to regenerative braking, replenishing some of the charge drained by driving.
In addition, the BH-O3 concept tyre has been carefully designed by Goodyear to reduce rolling resistance with the view of increasing an electric car’s range and efficiency.
As demand for electric cars grows, this technology has the potential to significantly contribute to the solution of future mobility challenges. This visionary tyre technology could reduce the vehicle-range anxiety motorists may have with electric cars.
Joe Zekoski, Goodyear’s senior vice president and chief technical officer said: “These concept tyres reimagine the role that tyres may play in the future.
“We envision a future in which our products become more integrated with the vehicle and the consumer, more environmentally friendly and more versatile.”
“It is more important than ever for us to stay firmly rooted in our market-back innovation process, which calls on us to focus on, and anticipate, the rapidly evolving needs of our customers,” said Zekoski.