(Goodyear)
Goodyear has found a way to stay very relevant in a world of flying cars.
The company has designed a tire and wheel combination that pulls double duty as a propeller/rotor.
(Goodyear)
The non-pneumatic AERO uses flexible spokes that provide shape to the tire and suspension for the vehicle on the road, and thrust and lift when spun at high rpms in the air. A computer simulation demonstrates how two wheels can flip up to prepare the vehicle for takeoff as it is driving down a road.
(Goodyear)
The hub is equipped with a magnetic propulsion system that spins the outer ring around it.
(Goodyear)
The narrow tire is also fitted with optical sensors to monitor road conditions and an A.I.-driven self-diagnostic system that can predict catastrophic failures before they happen.
(Goodyear)
Goodyear said that the AERO is only a flight of fancy at this stage, but some of its features could show up in its future products.