Major tyre manufacturer Michelin has revealed how it plans to make its tyres from fully sustainable materials by 2050.
The French firm says it currently makes tyres with 28 per cent sustainable materials, but wants to steadily increase this over the next few decades.
Each tyre compound is made up of around 200 ingredients, with the main one being natural rubber. Others include synthetic rubber, metal, fibres and components that strengthen a tyre’s structure, such as carbon black, silica and plasticisers.
Michelin revealed its Vision Concept tyre in 2017. It’s airless and made from fully renewable materials. (Michelin)
In 2019, a report by the UK Government recommended non-exhaust emissions by road traffic be recognised as a source of airborne particulate matter. In subsequent testing by EA, a regular family hatchback with new, properly inflated tyres emitted 5.8 grams per kilometre of particles.
That’s compared with a regulated exhaust limit of 4.5 milligrams per kilometre, and could be much worse with underinflated tyres, poorer road surfaces or using a budget brand.
YesAuto/PA media
Keyword: Michelin promises tyres will be made from fully sustainable materials by 2050