Mazda RX-9 features Mighty Morphin' tire technology and energy absorbent skin
The Mazda RX-9 is an advanced concept that came out on top in this year’s Michelin Design Challenge. It’s a hybrid featuring a 2.5L V6 and wafer-thin electric motor, but features a couple of technologies not seen before in the race for higher fuel mileage.
James Owen Design is the one-man firm responsible for penning the vehicle’s shape. The slick skin features electrostatic collectors that can collect electrical charges that build up on the exterior panels while driving through dry air. The electricity is store in capacitors that can then feed the hybrid drivetrain along with the onboard regenerative braking.
What’s more trick are the vehicle’s tires, which feature Electroactive Polymers (E.A.P.) that with varying levels of voltage from the vehicle’s electrical system can actually change the shape and depth of their tread pattern. The rubber donuts can go from flat and smooth to knobby and grippy, or even ride high on their centers for ultra-low rolling resistance.
Pretty interesting concept, but how the hell are you supposed to drive the thing?!?!?
The tires are a very interesting idea. Maybe we'll see them in production in... 20 years!
Sabre (Julian) 92.5% Stock 04 STI
Good choice putting $4,000 rims on your 1990 Honda Civic. That's like Betty White going out and getting her tits done.
static charges like that are usually high in voltage, but very low in current. Photovolteics have a much higher energy density potential. Only works when the sun are shiney, but continues to work even when the car isn't moving/generating static.
Patience is the ability to idle your motor when you feel like stripping your gears
