Inflatable tires have been a popular choice for vehicles since the 1800s, despite their drawbacks such as needing regular pumping and the risk of going flat or exploding. However, these tires also have advantages, including being able to absorb shocks and provide a smoother ride.
The first patent for an inflatable tire was granted in England in 1845 to inventor Robert William Thomson. Thomson’s design aimed to reduce the force needed to pull carts and improve overall efficiency by using materials like sulfur rubber or gutta-percha. John Boyd Dunlop, a Scottish veterinarian, later improved upon Thomson’s design and successfully commercialized inflatable tires.
Dunlop’s tires quickly gained popularity, especially in the cycling world, where they offered increased speed and comfort compared to hard tires. The use of air in inflatable tires allows for compression, reducing rolling resistance and making it easier to move at higher speeds with less energy consumption. Despite their various advantages, the technology of inflatable tires has not evolved significantly over time but continues to be the preferred choice for vehicles worldwide.