Technology and Features Used in Run Flat Tyre by Individual Manufacturers

Unlike conventional tyres run flat tyres or RFTs are more complicated to repair. Consulting the manufacturer of the run flat tyre becomes an essential part of repairing RFTs as different manufacturers use different technologies to build their run flat tyres. Though replacing them is a more convenient option and recommended.

What are “Run Flat Tyres or RFTs”

Run flat tyres are specially designed to maintain functionality even after puncture or a loss of air pressure. Conventional tyres tend to deflate fast and they become unusable and could cause accidents. RFTs are designed to increase safety and reduce the risk of accidents. It also eliminates the immediate need to change tyres which allows the drivers to reach safely to an automobile repair shop. Unlike standard tyres run flat tyres allows drivers to continue driving for a limited distance of 50 miles at speeds of up to 50 mph. Run Flat Tyres achieve this special trait through different technologies such as:

• Reinforced sidewalls: Reinforced sidewalls support the weight of the vehicle. It maintains the balance of the vehicle and provides additional strength. It prevents the tyre from collapsing when deflated or air pressure is lost.   
• Heat-Resistant Rubber: This minimizes overheating during extended driving with low or no air pressure and protects the tyre’s structure. They handle extra stress.
• Bead technology: Ensuring normal performance and providing comfort during regular driving is the main purpose of this technology. It is also used for improved grip on the rim when deflated and reduce the risk of detachment.

Manufacturers of Run Flat Tyres

Many manufacturers manufacture run flat tyres but three of them made a prominent name in this field. Bridgestone, Continental and BMW are celebrated manufacturers of RFTs. Bridgestone run flat tyres, run flat tyres BMW and Continental run flat tyre are renowned run flat tyres. These run flat tyres are expensive in comparison to other run flat tyres. Cheap run flat tyres can not only damage the car but also could be the reason for an unwanted accident.

Individual manufactures uses different technologies and features to make their run flat tyres stand out. Let us discuss about Bridgestone run flat tyres, run flat tyres BMW and Continental run flat tyre down below:

Bridgestone Run Flat Tyres

Bridgestone is a pre-eminent name in run flat tyre manufacturers. Other premium brands including BMW use RFTs manufactured by Bridgestone as OEM tyres.

Technology and Features:

• RFTs manufactured by Bridgestone are equipped withBridgestone DriveGuard andThird-Generation RFT Technology.
• Bridgestone reinforces NanoPro-Tech™ rubber compound which helps to enhance durability of the tyres.
• They use Cooling fin technology to reduces overheating. This technology also helps in improving ride comfort.
• Bridgestone run flat tyres have Sidewall-reinforced support that allows drivers to travel up to 50 miles of driving at 50 mph after a puncture.

Bridgestone Run Flat Tyres Price – £100 to £310 per tyre(Depending on size and brand).

Best For – Balanced performance & durability

Durability – 30,000–50,000 miles

Noise – Moderate to high

Comfort – Moderate

Wet Performance – Good

Dry Grip – Excellent

BMW Run Flat Tyres

BMW doesn’t manufacture run flat tyre but OEM Run Flat Tyres from other manufacturers including Bridgestone, Continental, Pirelli, and Michelin under the“Star-Marked” BMW RFTs.

Technology and Features:

• BMW customizes specific features in run flat tyres for BMW models including specific tread compounds and structures.
• BMW RFTs have reinforced sidewalls and bead technology to maintain grip and provide better control.
• BMW customizes RFTs to work seamlessly with BMW’s chassis, suspension, and xDrive systems.

BMW Run Flat Tyres Price – £150 and £250 per tyre (Depending on size and brand).

Best For – BMW owners looking for OEM fit

Durability – 30,000–45,000 miles

Noise – High

Comfort – Stiff ride

Wet Performance – Excellent

Dry Grip – Excellent

Continental Run Flat Tyre

Continental is another major manufacturer that manufactures Run Flat Tyres. They offer an extensive range of high-performance and touring options.

Technology and Features:

• They install ContiSeal™ Technology for self-sealing punctures. But this technology is only available in some models.
• Continental uses SSR or Self-Supporting Run-Flat Technology that offers reinforced sidewalls for driving up to 50 miles at 50 mph.
•   EcoPlus™ tread compound helps you save fuel by reducing rolling resistance.
•  Specially designed tread reduces road noise for a more comfortable, quieter drive.

Continental Run Flat Tyres Price – £90 to £250 per tyre(Depending on size and brand).

Best For – Comfort & longer tread life

Durability – 40,000–60,000 miles

Noise – Low to moderate

Comfort – More comfortable

Wet Performance – Best

Dry Grip – Very good

Conclusion

Due to their unique construction, run-flat tires are extremely difficult to repair once punctured, often requiring a full replacement. RFTs allow drivers to drive after being punctured so it causes more harm to the tyres that make it difficult to repair run flat tyres. Run flat tyre repairing should only be performed if the tyre meets strict criteria.

Some manufacturers are strictly against repairing severely damaged run flat tyre as it can increase the risk of accidents. Every RFTs manufacturer has different technology and features that they install in their run flat tyres to make them safer to use. Understating those features and technologies is extremely crucial when it comes to repairing these tyres.

There are very few mobile tyre repairing companies in London that specialize in repairing RFTs, among them 24hr Mobile Tyre Repair London has gained popularity. They have professional service technicians who have years of experience in repairing RFTs. 24hr Mobile Tyre Repair London consults with the tyre manufacturers before proceeding with the repair of the tyres.

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