Continental unveils 'CARE' system for AV fleet tire monitoring

FRANKFURT, Germany — Continental A.G. has unveiled a concept technology system dubbed Conti CARE (connected, autonomous, reliable and electrified) for managing tires in electric and autonomous fleets.

In combination with the web-based ContiConnect Live application, Conti claims Conti CARE optimizes costs through monitoring tire wear and adjusting the tire pressure on the go.

Unveiled during the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA), under way through Sept. 22, the system features sensors built into the structure of the tire that generate and evaluate data concerning tread depth, possible damage, tire temperature and tire pressure, Conti said.The ContiSense monitoring system transmits information on the condition of the tires to ContiConnect Live, making mobility management for fleet operators more efficient.

In addition, the tire pressure is "actively adjusted" using "centrifugal pumps" built into the wheel. As the vehicle accelerates, the centrifugal forces within the wheel act on the pump to generate compressed air.

The technology — dubbed PressureProof — keeps the tire pressure constantly within the ideal range and helps achieve a sustainable drop in CO2 emissions, Conti said.

Any excess compressed air is stored in an integrated tank. PressureBoost technology then uses this air to adapt the tire pressures to various driving situations.

Another technology on display is the SilentWheel concept, which presents a "modified wheel rim" that reduces the vibrations generated while driving and delivers ride quality.