Sudden tyre failure is not only annoying but also downright dangerous. In the future, new technology will help to reduce the number of accidents caused by tyre problems, with recently developed sensor systems constantly guarding tyre pressure and issuing a warning signal well before disaster strikes.In 85% of all cases, tyre rupture or explosion is caused by too low pressure. The real cause, however, is increased friction leading to excessive tyre temperatures and material failure with often catastrophic consequences. Slightly less worrying, even a small loss of tyre pressure causes not only increased wear but alos higher fuel consumption due to increased rolling resistance. Just as with too high pressure, the life expectancy of the tyre is significantly reduced (Figure 1).
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