Pax run-flat system gets approval from Renault

Feb. 28, 2001

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

The annoucement was made at the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland yesterday. Michelin introduced the Pax system at the same show in 1997.

Groupe Michelin's managing gerant, Edouard Michelin, foreshadowed the fitment at the recent Michelin Americas Small Tires Dealer Meeting in Phoenix, Ariz. He predicted PAX would be OE on some 2003 models, but added he expected a few fitments on European vehicles sooner than that.

Both Pirelli SpA and Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. also are involved in the development of the system. Michelin says the top management at Sumitomo Rubber Industries has expressed interest in being associated with the project as well.

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.

Michelin sees it as the most significant tire development since the introduction of the radial tire.