Bridgestone studying power-generating tires

Tokyo – Bridgestone Corp. is studying the supply of electricity to in-wheel electric motors through tires, as part of a major research project to support wireless charging systems for electric vehicles, the company announced 5 Sept.

The company has partnered with Fujimoto laboratory at the University of Tokyo and motion & control specialist NSK Ltd for the programme which is spearheaded by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST).

As part of the project, the University of Tokyo is responsible for the formulation and iteration of the concept of wireless charging in-motion for in-wheel motors as well as for the R&D of fundamental technologies.

NSK will oversee the development of in-wheel motors that are more easily incorporated into vehicles, while Bridgestone will lead the tire development process through materials technology.

The project is aiming at creating “game-changing technologies” to contribute to a "more sustainable society" and a reduction in CO2 emissions.

The current phase of the project is set to run from 2018 to 2022 under the JST research theme of addressing the global need to realise a low-carbon society.