The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and ZF, renowned leaders in connected mobility and vehicle systems, respectively, have announced the successful integration of tyre intelligence technologies with vehicle motion control software. This collaboration introduces Goodyear SightLine, a suite of tyre intelligence technologies, into the ZF cubiX ecosystem—a scalable vehicle motion control software.

A convergence for improved driving experience

The integration aims to enhance the driving experience by combining tyre intelligence with vehicle dynamics through the ZF cubiX ecosystem. This integration provides additional tyre and road data to the chassis system, offering drivers improved comfort, control, and efficiency.

Martin Fischer, Member of the Board of Management responsible for the ZF Chassis Solution division, expressed, “Goodyear SightLine will deepen our connection to the road and expand the scope and value of cubiX by supporting the era of software-defined vehicles.” The collaboration seeks to unlock possibilities for customization and optimization in both vehicle motion and tyre intelligence.

Targeting vehicle safety and performance

Through extensive research, virtual simulations, and real-world testing, Goodyear and ZF have identified the potential of this integrated solution in enhancing vehicle performance and safety. Notably, the Goodyear SightLine solution addresses the risk of hydroplaning, capable of detecting partial hydroplaning early and providing recommendations for optimal speed to improve vehicle control.

In scenarios of heightened hydroplaning severity, the cubiX software, equipped with tyre intelligence data, instructs chassis actuators to implement corrective measures, ensuring vehicle stabilization. This collaborative effort aims to elevate safety measures and responsiveness in various driving conditions.

Synergy for enhanced vehicle responsiveness

The combined capabilities of Goodyear SightLine and cubiX extend beyond safety features. The integration promises enhanced vehicle responsiveness, offering more direct and linear steering, improved turn-in response, increased stability, reduced controller workload, and minimized intrusive interventions.

Chris Helsel, Senior Vice President, Global Operations and Chief Technology Officer at Goodyear, highlighted the significance of digitizing the connection between tyres and the road. Helsel stated, “By digitizing this connection and equipping vehicle control actuators with critical insights, we can help optimize vehicle performance and safety.”

Recognized innovation

The innovative integration of cubiX and Goodyear SightLine has received acclaim, being named a CES 2024 Innovation Award Honoree within the vehicle technology and advanced mobility category. This recognition underscores the potential impact of the collaboration on advancing automotive technology.

The collaboration between Goodyear and ZF reflects a broader industry trend towards integrating digital intelligence into vehicle systems to enhance safety, performance, and the overall driving experience. As automotive technology continues to evolve, partnerships like these play a pivotal role in shaping the future of connected mobility.