Run Flat Tires - Accomplishments of the Goodyear-Michelin Joint Venture

Goodyear and Michelin formed a joint venture in June of 2000 to develop run flat technology and accelerate the introduction of innovative tire systems. With the run flat segment of the tire market on the verge of rapid growth, potentially involving a number of varied technical approaches, the need for global standards was soon recognized. The joint venture has taken the lead in the effort to establish the standards. The paper gives background on run flat tires and contrasts the widely varying service requirements in different parts of the world. Both vehicle manufacturers and consumers will benefit from these new tire system standards.