BMW run flats dissed by their own manufacturer?

You don't see the truth like this very often!

Run-flat tyres fitted to BMWs are heavy, increase fuel consumption and have a negative effect on ride comfort - that's the opinion of Michelin, one of the companies that makes run-flat tyres for the German carmaker.

The candid assessment is made by Didier Miraton, the director of the Michelin Technology Centre.

He says carmakers such as BMW pushed for run-flat tyres.

"The OEMs (original equipment manufacturers or carmakers) are motivated by the spare wheel suppression (removal) for the reason of cost and space. We are, of course, following them on that path because it makes sense," Miraton says.

Full article here

Thanks to AutoBlog for the tip...

Beemer4u - 6/24/2006 11:13:44 AM

+1 Boost

BMW does not use Michelin Pax run flats.

Extensive safety testing has proven that the reinforced sidewall variety (Dunlop, Continental)provide much better handling and braking in the event of tire failure. There are tradeoffs and the design is not perfect. If you have ever fixed a flat on the side of a busy freeway, you can understand the benefit and encourage further developement. Michelin has an inferior design. They should stop pissing on the concept and get to work on better and safer technologies.

phantom330 - 6/26/2006 9:12:54 AM

+1 Boost

Beemer4U is correct, I believe the majority of run-flats used by BMW are either Bridgestone or Pirelli. With that being said I honestly can't tell the difference between run flats and conventional tires, I'd like to do a back to back on the same car though. I'm sure the performance on the conventional is better, but it is nice to have the security factor of the run flats.

CarFreak - 6/26/2006 5:42:26 PM

+1 Boost

REad it again it says only the Rolls uses PAX Tyres and if you dont notice the road noise and the difference in feel then it's frightening that you still have a license! the concept is fantastic but until they fix the noise the wear issues they have and find a way to get more performance out of them they need to go back to the drawing board and give the spare's back