Groupe Michelin continues Pax tire/wheel system development

March 15, 2001

Groupe Michelin took another step forward in the development of its Pax run-flat tire/wheel system by signing a supply agreement with the Dow Chemical Co.

Dow will supply Michelin's integrated tire/wheel system with a polyurethane-based inner support wheel that will enable an automobile with a flat tire to travel up to 125 miles at 55 miles-per-hour, according to Michelin.

"This contract gives Dow an entry into the high potential tire market and provides us with the framework to work with Michelin, the leader in Pax system technology," says Bob Wood, Business Group president for Dow’s thermoset businesses.

The contract guarantees Dow a significant percentage of Michelin's business for polyurethane run-flat supports over the coming years. Results of this development will be shared with Pirelli SpA and Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., both Pax system licensees.

The Pax system is made up of four elements: an unseatable tire, a wheel, a flexible support ring and a tire pressure monitoring device. In addition to its run-flat capabilities, the system improves handling, traction and fuel economy, according to the company.

Groupe Michelin's Pax run-flat tire/wheel system will be an original equipment option on the soon-to-be introduced Renault Scenic.