Bridgestone and Conti Join Forces to Advance TPMS

Bridgestone has teamed up with competitor Continental to develop an advanced tyre pressure monitoring system for commercial vehicles. The two companies will join forces to mass produce the system which is expected to be released into the market in 2007. The companies are aiming to position the product as a “global standard.”

The system centres on a batteryless module for installation on the inside surface of tyres rather than on the rims, for increased accuracy in measurement.

The sensor will be designed to detect air pressure and temperature, and will contain a readable and writable ID tag. Modules positioned in the wheel arch will be designed to pick up the measurements and, at the same time, supply energy to the tyre module. Both manufacturers will design secondary technologies enabling drivers and maintenance personnel to monitor the sensor.

As part of the marketing strategy the companies will present the product to global customers, hoping to draw attention to its technical abilities and in doing so cultivate demand. The system will be exhibited at the Bridgestone booth at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show as of the 3 November.