Pirelli to introduce "intelligent tire" by end of year

May 16, 2002

Pirelli SpA's Intelligent Tire Technology will solve problems that existing tire pressure monitoring systems have, according to Pirelli officials.

These include excessive weight and the potential for damage during mounting, they say.

Pirelli's system, due out before the end of 2002, consists of a small light sensor that is attached to the tire, not the wheel, and does not connect to the car's battery.

It will have at least two pressure warning settings and has "black box" and "tire indentification" capabilities.

Pirelli's Intelligent Tire Technology will be 60% to 70% lighter than existing tire pressure monitoring systems.

Dealers will be able to retrofit old tires with it, say Pirelli officials.

The Italian tiremaker is working with auto manufacturers to obtain original equipment fitments for the system. (Pirelli might be able to cure the sensor directly into the tire for OEMs, according to company officials.)

The system will be built using Pirelli's automated MIRS (Modular Integrated Robotized System).