Industry experts predict that tire sensors will become smarter and offer more vital data for drivers as electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity. Since EVs are generally heavier than gasoline-powered cars and possess greater torque, the need for safe tire wear rates is higher, says Yagil Tzur, Vice President of Product at Israeli tech start-up Tactile Mobility. Major tire manufacturers are developing advanced sensors and experimenting with products to help tires last longer, provide drivers with advance warning about when they need servicing or replacement, and ultimately reduce the risk of tire blowouts and increased braking distances. Continental, for example, has developed intelligent sensors that go beyond merely monitoring tire pressure by also gauging temperature and detecting punctures. Similarly, Goodyear has partnered with Gatik, a self-driving truck company, to estimate road friction and supply real-time data to automated driving systems. Bridgestone has designed the R192E tire for use on EV buses, which has higher load capacity and lower rolling resistance than traditional tires. Tire makers are also developing tire sensors to track various data streams about tire performance and offer value-added health services that integrate into relevant applications. Tactile Mobility is developing virtual sensor software that can use data generated from physical sensors to produce algorithms for a tire’s health. Their Tire Health Monitoring system can offer a 360-degree view of tire health status by monitoring tire wear, grip, stiffness, wheel balance, and other vital factors. The company hopes its system will lead to better-performing tires in the long run.