# Shape-Shifting Rubber Wheels The Adaptive Automotive Tire Transforms to Fit Road Conditions By Michael Hines | Published 2012-05-16 | Autos Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adaptive-automotive-tire References: [springwise](http://www.springwise.com/automotive/automotive-tire-adapts-automatically-road-conditions/) & [htwk-leipzig.de](http://www.htwk-leipzig.de/en/) Those living in cold climates are going to want to pay close attention to the development of the adaptive automotive tire. This groundbreaking tire was created by researchers at the Leipzig University of Applied Sciences in Germany. Shape-shifting parts have been installed on the adaptive automotive tire to allow its longitudinal and transverse grooves to move separately, letting the tire shift its shape to provide better traction while on dirt roads or pavement. Designers have been trying to create a [shape-shifting tire](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modular-mobility-system) capable of conforming to any and all road conditions for some time now with little success. The adaptive automotive tire is still just a prototype, a patent-protected one at that, but its mere existence should bring hope to those sick of purchasing [snow tires](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/michelin-xice-snow-tires) come winter. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.8/10 - Popularity: 6% | Activity: 10% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/autos) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Adaptive Automotive Tires:** Opportunity for manufacturers to develop shape-shifting tires that can adapt to various road conditions. - **Road-condition Responsive Technology:** Potential for innovation in creating tires that can adjust their shape or tread pattern based on the type of surface they are on. - **All-season Tires:** Demand for tires that can perform well in both winter conditions and on regular roads. ### Who This Affects Most - **Automotive Manufacturing:** Automakers can explore the production of adaptive automotive tires to enhance vehicle performance and safety. - **Tire Manufacturing:** Tire manufacturers have the opportunity to develop shape-shifting tires for various road conditions, offering improved traction and durability. - **Winter Sports and Recreation:** Winter sports and recreation industries can benefit from the development of all-season tires, reducing the need for specialized winter sports equipment. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Adaptable Shapeshifting Steering Wheels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dynamic-steering-wheel.md) - [Omnidirectional Autonomous Vehicle Tires](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hankook-tire-wheelbot.md) - [Space-Inspired Airless Tires](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/metl-tire.md) - [Airless Car Tires](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airless-goodyear-tire.md) - [Eco-Friendly Automotive Tires](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sustainable-tires.md) - [Futuristic Auto Wheel Modules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wheel-module.md) - [Automated Tire-Changing Robots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tire-changing-system.md) - [Car Color-Changing Technology](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/car-color-changing-technology.md) - [Shapeshifting Superbike Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hypercycle.md)