The Eco low Rolling resistance tyre or ECORR, project is a follow on from a successful IDP6 feasibility project of the same name. The project focus is a tyre which can adapt it’s profile and stiffness dynamically, allowing it to operate in a very low rolling resistance mode, or in a performance grip mode when cornering or braking/accelerating. Analysis undertaken by the University of Birmingham (UOB) as part of the feasibility study concluded that the technology was capable of a step change 7.5% CO2 reduction compared to a vehicle running on conventional pneumatic tyres, and in addition had the potential to improve cornering grip, reduce tyre manufacturing costs, NVH and provide inherent run flat capability. Future development will see ECORR become a fully integrated dynamic component of the Low Carbon Vehicle.
To enable this the IDP 8 project has built a consortium between Fusion Innovations, UOB, Potenza Technology and Randle Engineering capable of developing the concept design through to a physical demonstrator and undergoing on vehicle testing (TRL 5). The tyre concept and a supporting generator technology for inflation are both the basis of patent applications. ECORR applies to the majority of conventional wheels, and it is envisaged that full vehicle integration will further enhance operational benefits.