Thought run-flat tyres were only for premium cars? Think again thanks to Bridgestone
Bridgestone released the exciting news that run-flat tyres are now available for mass market cars. They did this by launching DriveGuard, a new range of run-flat tyres aimed at vehicles which are not supplied with run-flat tyres from the factory.
DriveGuard is built on the technology of Bridgestone’s existing run-flat tyres. If a DriveGuard tyre is punctured, a maximum speed of 80km/h can be maintained for a distance of up to 80km.
SO WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
-The ability to keep driving after a puncture is extremely important for family cars – rather than changing a wheel at the roadside, a driver who has a puncture in an urban area can now get their family home in safety and then change the tyre.
– On longer journeys, drivers can keep going at reduced speed until they reach a safer location to change the tyre. This is a great benefit if the puncture occurs during a rainstorm or in heavy traffic where stopping at the roadside might be dangerous.
DriveGuard features a lighter-weight construction than previous run-flat tyres and includes new technologies which allow it to run cooler and be more durable. The Controlled Contact footprint distributes the tyre load more evenly to offer better wear characteristics, and the silica-based tread compound and an asymmetrical tread pattern give the tyre improved roadholding characteristics under both wet and dry conditions. Bridgestone says the tyre construction delivers a more comfortable ride when compared to conventional tyres.
“DriveGuard is a leap ahead in safety and convenience for the everyday driver. If a vehicle is fitted with DriveGuard, the driver need never again worry about the inconvenience and danger of a puncture,” said Hiroshi Nakanishi, General Manager, Field Engineering & Technical Services.