GREENVILLE, S.C. — Michelin North America Inc.'s BFGoodrich ActivAir tire pressure system won the Popular Science 2023 "Best of What's New" award in the automotive category.
ActivAir allows off-roaders to adjust tire pressure to fit the terrain without leaving their vehicle. The patented technology was developed and tested by builders in some of the most extreme environments, such as the Dakar Rally and the Ultra4 Racing Series, Michelin said.
"It is an honor to have BFGoodrich ActivAir recognized as an award winner, which showcases how BFGoodrich works to help drivers tackle any terrain," Harold Phillips, global general manager for BFGoodrich Tires, said. "BFGoodrich has a history of innovation, and we are proud to be recognized for this work."
Each year since 1988, the editors of Popular Science review thousands of products in search of the top 100 innovations — breakthrough products and technologies that represent significant advancements in their categories.
"The 'Best of What's New' Awards are our way of celebrating the most exciting and groundbreaking innovations of the year. These awards highlight the revolutionary inventions that are helping to improve our daily lives, our society, and our planet," Editor-in-Chief Annie Colbert said.
"From the future of air travel to revolutionary skin care products, and from sustainable outdoors equipment to game-changing gadgets, this year's list is a thrilling mix that we're proud to call the 'Best of What's New.'"
BFGoodrich ActivAir is a central tire inflation system designed by designed by Michelin Group subsidiary Teleflow S.A.S. It includes pneumatic valves with a display and control unit. The driver chooses one of four operating terrains and the system inflates or deflates the tires, the company said.
More experienced drivers have the option to select their desired pressures manually. ActivAir allows a transfer of all available power to the ground and maximizes traction.
BFG is partnering with Dyantrac Products Inc., a manufacturer of off-road components, which has integrated an air passage in its axle assemblies.
This is the fourth Michelin or BFGoodrich product to receive Popular Science recognition. Last year, Michelin received recognition for the Michelin Pilot Sport EV tire.
