Goodyear and ZF have announced that they are developing an intelligent tire technology that promises to reduce the risk of aquaplaning.
The collaboration between the two companies has led to a solution that combines Goodyear’s SightLine system, which incorporates a set of intelligent tire technologies, with ZF’s cubiX, a vehicle motion control system that coordinates all aspects of vehicle dynamics. Goodyear’s Sightline detects the possibility of partial aquaplaning in advance and provides recommendations on the optimal speed to improve vehicle control.
Thus, when the sensors mounted on Goodyear tires detect a higher probability of aquaplaning, ZF’s software can act on the chassis to stabilize the vehicle based on the information transmitted by the tires.
In addition, the synergy between the capabilities of Goodyear’s SightLine technology and cubiX can provide greater responsiveness of the vehicle in normal conditions, with more direct and linear steering, better cornering response, and increased stability.
“Tires are the only part of the vehicle that touches the road, and by digitizing this connection and equipping the vehicle control actuators with critical information, we can help optimize vehicle performance and safety. This collaboration with ZF is an excellent way to demonstrate what tire intelligence and software applications can do for mobility,” emphasized Chris Helsel, Senior Vice President of Global Operations and Chief Technology Officer at Goodyear.
