According to reports, Hyundai Motor Group has filed a patent for a new tyre design with built-in chains, which help improve traction in snowy conditions.<\/p>\n
As per the patent, instead of manually installing snow chains in the winter, the new tech would deploy the chains at the press of a button, making use of what Hyundai calls “shape memory alloy”. The tech works by running an electric current through the alloy spokes built into the tyre’s rubber that have a “shape memory”. When the electric current is passed, the chains pop out of the grooves in the rubber and retract once the current is cut off.<\/p>\n
The concept adds a layer of complexity to an otherwise simple design as it consists of a whole tyre & wheel assembly. However, the tech would also help provide a visual warning that the tyres are worn out as the alloy spokes would start to protrude out when the tyre is at the end of its usable life.<\/p>\n
The patent for the built-in snow chains has been applied both in South Korea & the USA. Hyundai is even said to be considering production of the tech, if and once the tyres pass the tests and are cleared for mass production.<\/p>\n