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The Invention of Vulcanized Rubber
Before rubber tires began to appear on cars, Charles Goodyear patented a process named vulcanization. This process involves heating/removing sulfur from rubber, making it water-proof. This allows the tires to maintain their elasticity.(exact date unknown) http://inventors.about.com/od/famousinventions/fl/John-Dunlop-Charles-Goodyear-and-the-History-of-Tires.htm -
The Pneumatic Tire in Gasoline Cars
When Karl Benz invented the first gasoline car, he also invented metal tires that were covered in rubber and filled with air. Previously, tires were made of solid metal. There is still debate if either Karl Benz, Andre Michelin, or John Dunlop created the first pneumatic tire.(exact date unknown) http://www.hankooktire.com/global/tires-services/tire-guide/history-of-tires.html -
The Tread Tire
Tread is the surface of the tire that makes contact with the ground, therefore providing traction through friction. Tire Tread pattern can vary depending on use and amount of traction/grip needed.(exact date unknown) http://www.hankooktire.com/global/tires-services/tire-guide/history-of-tires.html -
Introduction of Tubeless/Synthetic Rubber Tires
Because of rising oil prices, car manufacturers began to make cars light-weight to save gasoline. This lead to the invention and widespread use of the tubeless tire which was made of synthetic rubber. The industrialization of synthetic rubber tires by American company Du Pont increased tire quantity and quality. (exact date unknown) http://www.hankooktire.com/global/tires-services/tire-guide/history-of-tires.html -
Invention of the Radial Tire
A radial tire is a type of tire in which the cords and carcass plies are vertically arranged at 90 degrees to driving direction.This allows cars to transfer more power to the ground and absorbs bumps, shocks, and impacts better providing a more comfortable ride and better stability at high speed.(exact date unknown) http://www.hankooktire.com/global/tires-services/tire-guide/history-of-tires.html -
The Run Flat Tire
In the event of a puncture, scratch, or any other tire abrasion while driving, run flat tires can continue to be used temporarily at speeds under 50mph. This is done through reinforced sidewall construction or a supporting ring system. This protects the driver in emergency situations. (exact date unknown) http://www.hankooktire.com/global/tires-services/tire-guide/history-of-tires.html -
The Eco-Tuned Tire
With rising oil prices, economically friendly cars such as hybrid/electric motors. Along with this, eco-friendly tires that increase fuel economy by low-resistance design were developed. The downside to this is less traction on surfaces such as snow,mud, and dirt.(exact date unknown)
http://www.hankooktire.com/global/tires-services/tire-guide/history-of-tires.html -
The Future Tire
Hankook tire has developed a new airless tire made of different material. It is known as the NPT (non pneumatic tire). This tire is even more economically friendly because it is reusable/recyclable and the production process is cut in half. (exact date unknown)
http://www.hankooktire.com/global/tires-services/tire-guide/history-of-tires.html
