RunOnFlat

New generation of Goodyear breakthrough runflat technology

Geneva, Switzerland, March 1, 2005 RunOnFlat is the new name of the second generation of Goodyear's runflat tire technology, which is now available for all kinds of motorists. Goodyear pioneered the world's first runflat tire as far back as 1934, with the introduction of the LifeGuard Safety Tube, a tube within a tire which maintained steering stability until the driver could safely pull the car over to the side of the road. The first commercial breakthrough came in 1992 with its extended mobility technology (EMT), which no longer required special wheels. The company has focused its research and engineering know-how over recent years in refining the EMT technology and delivering a tire with improved performance, handling and comfort levels, suitable for broad roll out in the car market.

Technical excellence

So how does the RunOnFlat technology work? Joseph M. Gingo, Goodyear Executive Vice President, Quality Systems and Chief Technical Officer, explains: "Goodyear RunOnFlat tires are constructed with specially designed reinforced sidewall inserts using proprietary compound technology. This innovative compound creates higher stiffness which enables the tire to bear the weight of the whole vehicle, even when the tire is totally deflated." In addition, rim guards and tensioning devices on the outside of the sidewall help to maintain tension in the case of a flat. RunOnFlat tires also include a spiral-wound nylon layer under the tread to help the tires perform even at high speed without overheating. This is a crucial ability when a tire is operating with little or no air. The Goodyear RunOnFlat technology has such high levels of safety that sudden pressure loss may go unnoticed by the driver and therefore the use of a tire pressure monitoring system is essential. Many of the latest car models are equipped with such a tire pressure monitoring system.

RunOnFlat in action

In the event of a puncture or deflation, Goodyear RunOnFlat tires are designed to run for a minimum of 80 km (50 miles) at a maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 miles per hour) allowing the motorist to continue driving home or to the next tire or car dealer.

No compromise

Goodyear's RunOnFlat tires don't compromise on comfort, safety and performance. In comparison with the first generation runflat tires, the Goodyear RunOnFlat technology has undergone significant improvements in performance, handling and comfort levels. Drivers of RunOnFlat tires won't feel any difference to traditional tires. When fully deflated a RunOnFlat tire still performs like a traditional tire inflated to 1.0-1.2 bar (14.5 17.4 psi). Also, comfort levels of RunOnFlat tires have improved significantly. Several tests have shown that people can no longer notice any difference when asked to compare the driving experience on RunOnFlat versus normal tires. "In the past runflat tires did not fully meet the expectations of all drivers, particularly in performance cars and challenging driving conditions", explained Gingo. "Goodyear's RunOnFlat technology offers excellent handling performance and we are confident that it will surpass consumer expectations as it is offered in almost every car segment over the next few years." For further information please contact the Goodyear European press office by telephone on +32 2 240 9774 or by e-mail at press@runonflat.com. Should you wish to contact your local Goodyear office, pleaserefer to the list of contact details included in your press pack CD-ROM.