Michelin trialling Uptis airless tyres with DHL Express

Nearly 50 DHL Express vans will begin running on the Michelin Uptis airless tyre to make last-mile deliveries in Singapore by the end of 2023.

The pilot program began this week with the first Uptis-shod vehicles making their maiden delivery trips throughout the region.

Michelin says that thanks to the partnership with DHL, its Uptis airless tyres are now marketed in real-world conditions one year ahead of schedule.

The Michelin Uptis prototype is described as a puncture-proof wheel/tyre assembly with no compressed air and is intended for cars and light vans. The air has been replaced by a structure capable of supporting the vehicle. This ensures the wheel’s robustness and guarantees driving comfort and safety, according to Michelin.

It was designed as a plug-and-play solution that allows users to drive conveniently and not worry about road hazards impacting the tyres. Michelin says it will also reduce the number of tyres scrapped due to punctures.

With the Uptis tyre, Michelin says DHL can optimise its fleet’s productivity and ensure business continuity, as tyre pressure issues and punctures are eliminated. This will lower the frequency of tyre replacement, leading to less wastage.

“Michelin Uptis is a major breakthrough innovation in the tyre field. This is a result of some 50 patents linked to the tyre’s structure and high-tech materials,” said Bruno De Feraudy, director of OEM activities for the Michelin Group.

“It demonstrates Michelin’s capacity for innovation in favour of safer mobility that is better for the environment. We are delighted that DHL is trusting Michelin to equip its fleet with the very first Michelin UPTIS tyres, marketed one year ahead of schedule.”