Endless tyres: Self-regenerating, 3D printed tyres previewed

In one sense all tyres are endless because they are round. But now we are witnessing the dawn of a new generation of self-regenerating rubber. You’ve heard of in-wheel motors. These have in-wheel extruders. Therefore, they literally keep regenerating as they go, bringing a whole new meaning to the rubber hitting the road.

Integrating cutting-edge nanotechnology, these tyres repair their own tread wear and punctures in real-time, pointing to a future of infinite mileage. Before anyone asks where the compound necessary to feed the internal extruder will come from, an onboard tread wear vacuum is available as an optional extra.

The tyre’s developers, new technology start-up Lipra Lofo, predict their brake-through technology will slash replacement rates and are pitching their business based on a 100 per cent OE model. However, in light of lower vehicle production rates, they will have to tread carefully. According to those in the know, pre-orders start 1 April.