Michelin adding UTV version of Tweel non-pneumatic
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GREENVILLE, S.C. — Michelin North America Inc. (MNA) has developed a 26-inch version of its non-pneumatic Tweel tire/wheel hybrid for use on ultra-terrain vehicles (UTVs).
Michelin Tweel Technologies, an MNA division, is pitching the X Tweel UTV as "appropriate for use on construction, farm, landscape, recreation, quarry, mine, emergency service response, logging, parks, hunting, military operations, universities, beach patrol, camping, hurricane/tornado and other debris-laden areas where flat tires cause serious and extreme interruptions."
Originally designed for military special operations use on light-tactical vehicles, the X Tweel UTV 26x9N14 is a single unit that replaces the vehicles' pneumatic tire/wheel/valve assemblies, Michelin said.
Using a Tweel unit eliminates the need to carry spare tires, tools or repair kits, according to the tire maker.
"UTV users operate these machines in arduous environments and extreme conditions where vehicles are exposed to rugged roads, jagged terrain and other hostile elements," said Olivier Brauen, vice president of Michelin Tweel Technologies.
The X Tweel UTV is an alternative to pneumatics that will provide "unmatched traction and uninterrupted vehicle mobility" during long journeys or in remote areas where a flat tire can be problematic, he said.
The X Tweel UTV's flexible poly-resin spoke technology helps dampen the ride for enhanced operator comfort, Michelin said, while providing "outstanding" lateral stiffness for cornering and side-hill stability.
Michelin has posted a video onYouTubeshowing the X Tweel UTV in action.
The X Tweel UTV carries a 37-mph speed rating at a maximum gross vehicle weight of 2,860 pounds. It's available in three hub configurations that will fit 4x137 and 4x156 bolt patterns for a variety of machines, including: BRP Can-Am Defender; Kawasaki Mule; and Polaris Ranger.
Additional hub configurations for John Deere, Honda, Kubota and Argo will be available later in 2018 and 2019, Michelin said.
The tire maker also is exploring new distribution outlets specifically for this application
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