Bridgestone  teamsys_an   dalytyres17 Goodyear140513 Dunlop140513 goodyearfarm

Goodyear buys two VI-Grade driving simulators to improve tyre development

Goodyear has purchased new VI-grade driving simulators, including a dynamic model, with the aim of enhancing its product development capabilities.

A first for the tyre manufacturer, it selected a Compact Simulator recently delivered to the company’s innovation centre in Luxembourg and a Dynamic Driving Simulator DiM250 (Driver-in-Motion) that will be installed in Akron, Ohio, in the coming months.

“This level of simulation sophistication will allow Goodyear to drive breakthroughs in future tire creation, leading to an enhanced customer and driver experience,” said Chris Helsel, Goodyear’s senior vice president and chief technology officer. “I’m proud to say that Goodyear is leading the industry with VI-grade and our simulation solutions, and we look forward to sharing that benefit with our customers.”

The automotive industry trend toward a virtual development cycle provides an opportunity for tyre development and this new simulation avenue will allow Goodyear to work more collaboratively with automobile manufacturers on original equipment fitments.

The driving simulators will be used for virtual development and tuning of dynamic performances of tyres, aided by the ability to simulate a range of driving conditions.

The driving simulators can be seen in action here.