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07

Evolution of Tire Technology

posted on 10/7/2021 4:31:00 PM

Tires have changed as the paths we travel on have evolved. From the first rubber bicycle tires to high end racing tires, tire manufacturers continue to invent new ways to improve modern modes of transportation.

5 Major Contributors in Tire Innovation

Tire manufacturers are constantly researching and developing new and improved tire technology to give tires longer life and make for smoother rides. In this episode of All About The Car, the team travels back in time to learn about five contributors who laid the groundwork for modern tire technology.

• Charles Goodyear – Patented the vulcanization process which hardens rubber to make it waterproof and weather resistant in 1844

• John Dunlop – Inventor of the first practical pneumatic (air-filled) tire in 1888

• Andre Michelin – Created the first pneumatic tire used on an automobile in 1895

• Harvey Firestone – Invented the non-skid tread in 1908

• Phillip Strauss – Invented the first reliable pneumatic tire that was the combination of a tire and inner tube in 1911

 

Brand Recognition

 
Some tire manufacturers have created interesting ways to increase tire sales. From creative logos to blimps and mascots with distinct personalities, many of these icons have become ingrained in our culture. For example, the Goodyear Blimp is a household name, even though blimps are actually quite rare. There are only 25 blimps left in the world. Goodyear has three airship bases in the United States and one in Europe. You can even take a virtual tour of a hangar that houses the massive Goodyear blimps.
 
The Michelin brothers created the Michelin Guide to encourage motorists to get out and travel! Initially, the guide was part of a plan to increase tire sales. The guide and rating system is still referenced today as an authority on quality travel destinations, restaurants and service around the globe. 
 

So, What is the Best Tire?

 
As the tire industry has grown, many brands have expanded to offer a premier line, as well as sub-brands. This allows them to offer an economical alternative with the same core technologies. Some manufacturers have also purchased various brands that have an established reputation and are recognizable on their own. 
There are currently about 75 tire manufacturers around the world, each with unique origins and niche specialties. Goodyear is the only tire manufacturer still based in the United States after their recent acquisition of Cooper Tires. 
 
So, what is the best tire? Head to your local Schierl Tire & Service location to talk to a friendly knowledgeable Associate about your specific needs and they will help you find the tire that is best for you!
 

Road Trip Wisconsin – Great River Road

 
In the spirit of travel, Rob, Bryan and Bill take a road trip along the Great River Road on the west side of Wisconsin to marvel at the breathtaking views. They also check out the engineering wonder of the locks and dams along the Upper Mississippi. The locks allow spectators to watch barges and recreational craft make their way through the locks from observation decks along the route. 
 
Listen to the team’s discussion about the process of walking a barge through the locks. It can take up to two hours for a barge to complete this trip! For more information, visit the US Army Corps of Engineers website.
 
If you are interested in seeing one of the four Wisconsin locks along the Mississippi River, they are located in:
• Alma - Lock & Dam #4
• Fountain City - Lock & Dam #5A
• Trempealeau - Lock & Dam #6
• Genoa - Lock & Dam #8
 
To learn more about the history of major tire innovators, their branding through the years and our hosts’ traveling the Great River Road, listen to the full All About The Car podcast above.
Categories: Tires 101 | View Count: (277) | Return

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