Airless Tires Market: Airless Tires have a potential to be a game-changer in the automotive industry

Airless Tires market was valued at USD 54.40 Mn in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 80.19 Mn by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.6 % during the forecast period.
Definition and Product Overview:
Airless tires are also known as non-pneumatic tires or flat-free tires. It is a type of tire that does not rely on air pressure for support. They typically use strong, flexible materials like spokes made of composite materials or polyurethane to maintain their shape. The airless tires offer a promising alternative to traditional pneumatic tires, particularly for applications where puncture resistance and low maintenance are priorities. Its flexibility provides an increase in surface area of contact. They are beneficial for small vehicles like lawnmowers and golf carts because they are less likely to get punctured. They are also used on heavy equipment such as backhoes, which are required to operate on sites like building demolition.

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Construction And Material Properties Of Airless Tyres

The design of the airless tire and wheel working together is a vital aspect of their functionality. Airless tire has a unique construction and material properties, which helps to achieve their functionality. Tread is the outer layer that makes contact with the road and provides grip. Airless tires typically use rubber compounds similar to pneumatic tires, formulated for wear resistance, traction, and temperature tolerance. Spokes are internal elements connected the tread to the rim and playing a crucial role in absorbing impacts and maintaining the tire's shape. It is made by Polyurethane (PU) and other type of composite materials. The flexible polyurethane spokes act like a suspension system, absorbing impacts and providing a smoother ride. The polyurethane is used as the spokes in the airless tires. It serves the function of air in this tyre. It has a capacity to take heavy loads and can deform its shape temporarily. Shear Band is a layer between the tread and spokes. It flexes as the tire rolls, providing some give and improving shock absorption. Common materials include elastomers or combinations of rubber and plastic. The shear band configuration, along with the flexible spokes, can potentially outperform traditional pneumatic tires in terms of performance on rough terrain, suspension and lower rolling resistance. Rim is the core structure that holds whole assembly together. The concept of a two-band airless tire with a reusable inner band offers a potentially significant advancement in terms of material savings and environmental benefits. More research and development are needed to refine the design and address potential challenges for its practical implementation.

Material Properties of Airless Tyres



Part
Hub
Spokes
Outer Ring
Thread


Material
AL 7075-T6
Polyurethane
AISI 4340
Rubber


Density
2800
1200
7800
1043


Youngs Modules
72000
32
210000
11.9


Poison Ratio
0.33
0.49
0.29
0.49


Yield Strength
500+
140
470
6



Many companies are trying to develop Airless tyres means which are not pneumatic. Michelin and Bridgestone are among the first few tyre companies who firstly designed airless tire.

Technology Evaluation by Key Players in the Airless Tires Market

Airless tires have been replaced by polygon spokes and elastomeric layers with internal and external rings. Airless tyres will not need to be discarded and replaced as often as air tyres. Automotive companies are currently looking to reduce the car's weight to meet the government's fuel economy standards. Automotive companies are focusing on the option of reducing tyre weight through the research and development. The first major attempt to create an airless wheel was in 1970 with NASA's Apollo lunar rover vehicle. The next main attempt at creating an airless tyre was called the Tweel by the tyre company, Michelin. The design consisted of a thin rubber band with V-shaped spokes made of polyurethane. Another model for the non-pneumatic tyre came from the well-known tyre company, Bridgestone. NASA had contracted with Michelin to develop next generation lunar tyres for interplanetary missions based on Twill technology. Michelin also has additional Tweel projects on smaller construction machines, such as skid steer loaders, which appear to be suitable. Rigidness of the airless design is a major advantage on a rugged, construction sites.

Many companies are working to make airless tire innovation more useful and affordable to end user. Companies like Tesla, Hankook, Bridgestone, and NASA are working on airless technology as a future scope. Hankook I-flex is an NPT developed by Hankook which shows very promising results. Bridgestone is focusing on development of the air-free concept tire, which are more environmentally friendly product than existing tires. The company aims to bring about commercial use in a wide range of vehicles. The company is concentrating to use effective resource and efficient operations alongside CO2 emissions to achieve balance between automotive business and environment. In 2022, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has developed and tested a custom-engineered non-pneumatic (airless) tire (NPT) to support Starship delivery robots. However, many tire manufacturing companies are yet to start making airless tire because of different limitations.
Airless Tires Market Overview:
Airless tires have the potential to reduce carbon emissions thanks to energy loss elimination from tire rolling resistance. Additionally, usage of reclaimable materials, with economical use of resources are some of the factors, which are expected to drive the airless tires market demand. The demand for maintenance free tires notably for vehicles together with military, terrain, utility, motorcycles, and business vehicles are expected to boost the production of the airless tires. Consumers are expected to adopt airless tires for eliminating the requirement of spare tires, and superior productivity in applications like manufacturing sector, farming, construction & mining sectors. Strong potential of the merchandise for substitution standard air tires are expected to increase the demand for airless tyres. Airless tire technology is becoming popular with lawn service equipment, recreational vehicles, light construction equipment, and commercial-industrial vehicles that operate in rugged conditions. The airless tires are helps to replace current pneumatic tire and wheel assembly. It is easily fastened on to existing hubs without the need of unique mounting.

An introduction of airless tires represents a significant shift from traditional pneumatic tires. They offer benefits like puncture resistance, lower maintenance, and potentially improved fuel efficiency in bicycles, military vehicles, and a range of commercial and utility vehicles. Their current uses span bicycles, military vehicles, and commercial applications, with passenger vehicles as a potential future market. An increase in demand for puncture-proof and low-maintenance tires, and growing focus on environmental sustainability are expected to drive the demand for airless tires. Some of the key players in the airless tire market include Michelin, Sunicomo Rubber Industries, Amerityre Corporation, Toyo Tire and Rubber Co. Ltd, and Cooper Tire & Rubber Company. Major companies have extensive experience in tire design, manufacturing, and distribution networks. They also have strong brand recognition and established relationships with automakers (OEMs). Key players operating in the airless tires market are competing on the materials used, tread designs, and spoke configurations to achieve optimal performance and cater to different vehicle types.
Airless Tires Market Dynamics
The emergence of the Airless Tire is expected to become a backbone of future mobility.

The emergence of airless tire technology presents a glimpse into the future of mobility. With their potential to reduce maintenance, improve fuel efficiency, and minimize environmental impact, airless tires are expected to become a backbone of future transportation. As research and development continue, it is expected to see that airless tires will become more refined solution in the tire industry. The airless tires are expected to disrupt the traditional tire industry and pave the way for a more sustainable and convenient transportation experience during the forecast period.

An airless tire supports the vehicle load through the structural shape of the spoke. The spoke also plays the role of shock captivation from the road surface and form restoration of the tire. NASA has researched the superelastic tire which is made of nickel-titanium with shape memory alloys. An innovative airless tire has provided sufficient elasticity as its name suggests. It is used for the next-generation Mars Rover or the Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV) of Artemis. NASA is also developing a new lunar vehicle. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency has planned to develop a fuel cell-powered manned rover with Toyota and will send it to the moon in 2029. Airless tire is an excellent choice for off-road kind of exploration with proven use on military vehicles, which can handle some conditions like, jungles with mud and swamps, snow fields, rugged mountain ranges, rock-strewn terrain and frozen icy roads. Airless tires are expected to be in the focus for self-driving cars. In 2022, Hankook Tire has introduced iFlex, airless tire optimized for autonomous driving mobility.

Airless tyres are expected to hold a positive environmental impact that will drive the demand for Airless Tyres.

The airless tires offer enhanced load bearing capabilities, driving performance, and environment friendly design. Airless tires are designed to be more durable and less prone to punctures than traditional pneumatic tires. The airless tires can potentially improve a vehicle's fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance because of they don't lose pressure. Traditional pneumatic tires have a significant environmental footprint. It is energy-intensive and releases carbon emissions. Airless tires are manufactured with recyclable and sustainable materials, which helps to reduce their carbon footprint. The rolling resistance of the airless tyres are expected to lead to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions. The environmental benefits of airless tires are expected to increase the production and fuel efficiency. Their design prioritizes extended durability. It translates to fewer tire replacements throughout a vehicle's life, pointedly reducing the amount of tire waste that ends up in landfills. The airless tires do not depend on on natural rubber trees for production that helps to conserve natural resources and reduces the impact on ecosystems. The shift towards airless tires characterizes a momentous step to a more sustainable future for the automotive industry. As consumers become more environmentally conscious and pursue cost-effective solutions, the demand for airless tires are expected to grow at a rapid rate.

Benefits Of Airless Tires Are Expected to Drive the Market Growth.

Airless tires are constructed with cutting-edge materials and innovative designs specifically to conquer tough terrains and withstand harsh conditions. It translates to a significantly longer lifespan compared to pneumatic tires, minimizing the need for frequent replacements. One of the most prominent benefits of airless tires is their durability and longevity. Despite airless tires have a higher upfront cost, their extended lifespan decodes to significant cost savings over time. Airless tire with commercial vehicles and industrial equipment has ability to resist punctures and blowouts. It reduces downtime, increases productivity and efficiency in various industries. Airless tires offer numerous safety benefits over their pneumatic counterparts. The solid construction airless tires offer added safety for drivers. Airless tires require minimal maintenance over pneumatic tires. It also maintains consistent performance in challenging conditions. Airless tires provide exceptional stability and making them ideal solution for construction equipment, and military vehicles. The unique design of airless tires offers superior traction on wet and dry surfaces, which improve control and handling in adverse weather conditions.

Use of airless tires in commercial vehicles are expected to increase the demand for Airless Tires.

The increasing adoption of airless tires in commercial vehicles is making a significant impact on the Airless Tires Market. The penetration of airless tires is set to surge, driven by rising sales of passenger vehicles and the growing demand for puncture-resistant tires. Various companies are actively developing new airless tires specifically designed for the commercial market. Notably, in 2023, Michelin and DHL collaborated to test the Uptis airless tire, with over 50 DHL express vehicles in Singapore set to utilize puncture-proof tires by the end of 2023. The partnership is poised to increase the demand for the airless tires market in the forecast period.

3D printing technology is expected to see notable trend in the Global Airless Tires Market

The Airless Tires Market is experiencing and expected to see a notable trend with the increasing demand for 3D printing technology. The technological advancement is anticipated to positively impact the market during the forecast period. The application of 3D printing in manufacturing airless tires offers benefits like cost reduction and pollution minimization. Michelin's creation of the Unique Puncture-proof Tire System Airless Tire using biodegradable materials and 3D printing technology represents the trend in the airless tire market. Additionally, Goodyear Tire and Rubber Companies have planned to test 3D printing technology for autonomous vehicle tires in Florida, which helps to supports the market's expansion, leveraging the increasing popularity of 3D printing.

Noisy airless tires and high prices are expected to limit the airless tire market.

Notably, airless tires are characterized by increased noise compared to traditional air-filled tires, presenting a significant drawback. Despite ongoing technological advancements to mitigate noise, airless tires still transmit more vibrations into vehicles than conventional tires. Airless tires can produce noise on certain road surfaces because of their solid nature. Another constraint is the relatively high cost associated with airless tires. For instance, Michelin Tweel, depending on size and type, can cost up to USD 750 per wheel. Airless tires have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional tires, which is expected to be a barrier for automotive consumers.

Increasing investment of key players towards alternative ways of Tyre manufacturing

Increasing restrictions on synthetic rubber tire manufacturing and highly increasing waste made by the dumping of rubber tires are the factors considered to drive the market's growth during the forecast period. In the airless tire market, Michelin has launched new 3D printed tires to apply bicycles, motorcycles, and passenger cars. 3D tires are customized replacements for summer, winter, and other tires. In addition, Goodyear launched new Eagle 360 tires, which are connected to the car using magnetic levitation technology. The technological adoptions and alternative tire manufacturing are the factors that are expected to drive the demand for airless tire during the forecast period.
Airless Tires Market Segment Analysis
By Material, airless tires market is segmented into rubber and plastic. The rubber segment held the dominant position in the airless tire market. The rubber industry has a long history of developing and refining tire technology. Manufacturers understand the behavior of rubber under various conditions and can optimize its performance for different applications. The stablished knowledge base gives rubber a significant advantage in the early stages of airless tire development. Rubber offers exceptional characteristics for tires. It has high tensile strength, meaning it can resist stretching and breaking under pressure. It also boasts excellent elasticity, allowing the tire to absorb bumps and vibrations for a smoother ride.



By Product, airless tires market is segmented into Radial and Bias. The radial airless tires held the dominant market share with a share more than 70% share in the global airless tires market. Radial airless tires offer several performance benefits. The radial construction allows for better handling, increased stability, and improved fuel efficiency with lower rolling resistance. Manufacturers have a well-established understanding of radial tire technology and its production processes, which translates to a wider range of readily available radial airless tire options. On the other hand, bias airless tires have their niche applications. As airless tire technology continues to evolve, advancements in materials and production processes are expected to lead to improve bias airless tire performance.

By tire size, global airless tires market is segmented into <20 inches, 21-25 inches, 26-30 inches, 31- 35 inches and >35 inches. Based on current applications and airless tire technology, 21-25 inches segment is expected to hold the dominant position in the market. The early adopters of airless tire technology are often seen in specialty applications like construction equipment, industrial vehicles, and low-speed electric vehicles. The 21–25-inch segment held the dominant position with a share of more than 38% because of its suitability for early adopter applications. It is expected to hold the dominant position during the forecast period.

By Vehicle Type, airless tires market is segmented into military vehicles, PS/LT (Passenger& Light truck), truck & bus, terrain vehicles, utility vehicles and others. Military Vehicles prioritize performance and reliability in demanding situations. Airless tires' resistance to punctures and potential weight reduction make them a strategic advantage for military operations. The airless tires are specifically designed to prevent the tires from rupture and flat out in military exercises. Moreover, the increasing need for military vehicles to operate on rough terrains and the high susceptibility of soldiers to danger owing to tire flat outs are the factors considered to drive the market growth of military and all-terrain vehicles. Passenger& Light truck includes cars and light trucks, which are mainly used for personal transportation and light commercial purposes. Utility Vehicles are accounted more than 30% share in the airless tire market. It includes a variety of utility vehicles used in industrial, agricultural, and commercial applications.

By Sales Channel, airless tires market is segmented into OEM and Aftermarkets.

OEM’s segment is dominated in the global Airless Tires Market and accounted for over 90% of the market share. The factor attributed to the segment growth is increasing consumer inclination towards airless tires for excellent performance in the market. The provision of safe driving conditions, enhanced strength, and excellent service with reduced maintenance are the critical factors for the OEMs segment growth. The manufacturers are increasing the production of airless tires to normalize product costs and attract more consumers. OEMs have the opportunity to design and integrate airless tires into new vehicles from the ground up, which also for optimized performance and potential weight savings when the entire vehicle is engineered with airless tires. OEMs can ensure airless tires on new vehicles meet their specific quality and performance standards during the manufacturing process. As airless tires gain popularity and public awareness increases, demand for aftermarket airless tire is expected to grow during the forecast period.
Airless Tires Market Regional Insight
The demand for innovative and sustainable tire solutions are expected to boost the demand for Airless Tire in North America.
The demand for innovative and sustainable tire solutions is a major driving force behind the growth of the airless tire market in North America. Consumers in North America are increasingly seeking out eco-conscious products and services. Airless tires, with their durability and potential environmental benefits are expected to increase demand for sustainable airless tire solutions. focus on innovation and sustainability creates a significant opportunity for the airless tire market in North America. As the technology matures and overcomes its challenges, airless tires are expected to become a game changer technology in the automotive industry in the North America. Key players operating in the North America airless tire market are developing airless tire technology by partnering with vehicle manufacturers in North America to integrate airless tires into new vehicles, mainly those designed for off-road use. The United States military is actively exploring airless tire technology for its vehicles because of the advantages of puncture resistance and potential weight reduction. Thes government interest is a significant driver for research and development in North America.

Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. The growth in the market is expected to drive by the factors like penetration of passenger cars in regions including China, India, Japan, Korea, and others and improving manufacturing standards. The Asia-Pacific region stands as one of the largest automotive aftermarkets, propelled by the rapid expansion of the automobile industry in countries like India, China, and Japan. Within this dynamic landscape, the demand for airless tires is witnessing an upward trajectory, driven by escalating construction activities, a penchant for fuel-efficient technology, and robust industrial growth. Noteworthy countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea emerge as key players, boasting abundant raw material suppliers, supportive political environments, and cost-effective labor, with a particular emphasis on agriculture.


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Global Airless Tires Market


Report Coverage
Details


Base Year:
2023
Forecast Period:
2024-2030


Historical Data:
2018 to 2023
Market Size in 2023:
US $ 54.40 Mn.


Forecast Period 2024 to 2030 CAGR:
7.6%
Market Size in 2030:
US $ 80.19 Mn.


 Segments Covered:
by Material
Rubber
Plastic


by Product
Radial
Bias


by Tire Size
<20 inches
21-25 inches
26-30 inches
31- 35 inches
>35 inches


by Vehicle Type
Military Vehicles
PS/LT (Passenger& Light truck)
All-Terrain Vehicles
Utility Vehicles
Others


by Sales Channel
OEM
Aftermarkets



Airless Tires Market, by Region
North America (United States, Canada and Mexico)
Europe (UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Austria, Turkey, Russia and Rest of Europe)
Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, ASEAN and Rest of APAC)
Middle East and Africa (South Africa, GCC, Egypt, Nigeria and Rest of ME&A)
South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Rest of South America)
Airless Tires Market, Key Players are
1. Michelin (France)
2. The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company (US)
3. Bridgestone Corporation (Japan)
4. Hankook (South Korea)
5. Toyo Tire Corporation (Japan)
6. Continental AG (Germany)
7. Marathon Industries inc (US)
8. Cooper Tire (U.S.)
9. McLaren Industries (US)
10. Amerityre Corporation (U.S.)
11. Yokohama Tire Corporation (US)
12. Evolution Wheel (Canada)
13. Sunitomo Rubber Industries (Japan)
14. Trelleborg AG (Sweden)
15. GRI Tires (India)
16. Tannus Ltd (Australia)
17. SciTech Industries (Australia)

Frequently asked Questions:
1. What are Airless Tires?
Ans: Airless Tires are revolutionary tire technology designed to eliminate the need for air pressure.

2.How are technological advancements driving innovation in Airless Tires?
Ans: Materials Science, Design and Manufacturing, 3D Printing technology are some of the technology advancement factors, which are expected to drive innovations in the Airless Tires.

3. Why is the OEM segment dominating the Airless Tires market?
Ans: The close integration with vehicle design and controlled environment offered by OEMs makes them the current leaders in the airless tire market.

4. What is the projected growth rate for Airless Tires Market during the forecast period?
Ans: The Airless Tires Market growth is expected to grow at a 7.60% rate of CAGR during the forecast period.