Goodyear buys two VI-grade driving simulators for tyre development

Goodyear has purchased new VI-grade driving simulators, including a dynamic model, to enhance its product development. The tyre manufacturer has selected a Compact Simulator recently delivered to the company’s innovation centre in Luxembourg and a Dynamic Driving Simulator DiM250 (Driver-in-Motion) to be installed in Akron, Ohio, in the coming months.

“This level of simulation sophistication will allow Goodyear to drive breakthroughs in future tyre creation, leading to an enhanced customer and driver experience,” said Chris Helsel, Goodyear’s senior vice president and chief technical officer. “I’m proud to say that Goodyear is leading the industry with VI-grade and our simulation solutions, and we look forward to sharing that benefit with our customers.”

The automotive industry trend toward a virtual development cycle provides an opportunity for tyre development and this new simulation avenue will allow Goodyear to work more collaboratively with automobile manufacturers on original equipment fitments.

The driving simulators will be used for virtual development and tuning of dynamic performances of tyres, aided by the ability to simulate a range of driving conditions.

“We are delighted to report on the adoption of our driving simulators at Goodyear,” said Guido Bairati, VP global sales and marketing, VI-grade. “Goodyear’s vision to purchase and work with us on a dedicated training program to ensure efficiency in operation of these simulators will give it a distinct competitive advantage.”

Established in 2005, VI-grade innovates solutions for streamlining development processes in the automotive, aerospace, motorcycle, motorsports and railway sectors. Since September 2018, VI-grade has been part of Spectris, a FTSE 250 listed global conglomerate with 9,800 employees and 2 billion dollars of sales (2017). The firm operates in four major segments: materials analysis, testing & measurement, in-line instrumentation and industrial controls.