The latest prototype of this technology originally invented at NASA features reduced cost, new treads, and a 2023 launch date.
AKRON, Ohio, Aug. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ --One year after first previewing airless tires made from space age metal alloys, and making waves with cycling and tech enthusiasts, SMART Tire unveiled a new prototype that addresses key questions about the technology. First appearing at the Move 2022 mobility conference (London), and later featured at Viva Technology in Paris, the latest tires were seen equipped and in action on a Specialized bicycle, taking test rides around the test track.
Compared to the spring 2021 model, this latest iteration features:
- A translucent, colored polyurethane casing to keep out dirt and debris
- An optimized design that is 85% cheaper to produce, targeting a competitive tire price point
- Integrated rubber treads for optimal grip and all-weather performance
- Retread capability, for nearly unlimited mileage from the same tire
- Compatibility with standard clincher rims
According to CEO Earl Cole: "The METL tire has exceeded all of our expectations and we're on track for a 2023 launch. Our biggest challenges from Day 1 were cost, and manufacturability. Now it's all about testing and retesting to ensure we deliver the dream: the ultimate high performance airless tire."
STC is currently working with a major bicycle manufacturer on a futuristic concept bike for Q1 2023, and plans an official consumer launch for later in the year. The waiting list for METL tires remains open at https://www.smarttirecompany.com/cycling.
In addition to developing NASA-inspired bicycle tires, STC recently debuted their advanced lunar tire designed specially for Project Artemis and NASA's Lunar Terrain Vehicle, which will return astronauts to the moon for the first time since the Apollo era.
Co-Founder Brian Yennie explains:
"Something we're doing which is really unique, is carrying the torch for the original outer space applications, while simultaneously adapting the technology for consumer use. Usually space technology filters back to Earth many years later, but both projects can now benefit from each other in real-time."
About The SMART Tire Company
The SMART Tire Company develops & manufactures the world's first, high performance, lightweight, airless, never flat & sustainable bicycle tire made from space-age materials, originally conceived at NASA. These tires require no air pressure, ride smooth like a conventional pneumatic tire, look super cool, can last the life of your bike, and are price-comparable with premium products currently on the market. Unlike any previous airless tire, SMART Tires are made from shape memory alloys, which are unique "superelastic" metal alloys that can combine extreme durability, low rolling resistance and strength into a single product. Combined with an easily replaceable rubber tread, the technology greatly reduces landfill waste, downtime, and fuel economy for electric mobility fleets. With the elimination of flats and under-inflated tires, safety is also improved.
STC is a crowdfunded startup based in Akron, Ohio and Los Angeles, California. All SMART Tires are designed and manufactured exclusively in the USA.
Interested investors and cycling enthusiasts can buy shares in the company directly by visiting https://wefunder.com/the.smart.tire.company (See here for important legal disclosures)
Media Contact
Brian Yennie, The SMART Tire Company, Inc, 1 (323) 380-0887, [email protected]
SOURCE The SMART Tire Company, Inc
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