It's a Wrap! Nissan Teams With Michelin for Unique Concept Design

DETROIT, Jan. 5, 2004 -- Nissan designers had an idea for a truly unique tire and wheel package to complete their stunning new Actic concept. Working with the concept tire design team at Michelin brought that vision to life.

The challenge from Michelin's perspective was fitting the architecture of a car tire into a motorcycle tire shape and then mounting it on the unique wheel rim profile developed by Nissan.

The solution was a one of a kind design that wraps the wheel in rubber material carrying the pattern from the Michelin Concept (Wrap) 275-35R20 tread. The result is a 360 degree rubber signature with only the wheel spokes and hub exposed.

"It's an amazing concept -- both the vehicle and tire. Nissan came up with a very creative approach to the tire and wheel that really pushes the design envelope," said Tom Chubb, vice president of marketing for Michelin Automotive Industry Division. "To execute the concept, our designers and engineers also applied liberal doses of creativity. Solving these technical challenges is what Michelin thrives on."

  *  The tire offers a rounded profile, a bit like Michelin's hottest
     motorcycle tires.
  *  The Michelin logo is essentially reversed out of the membrane wheel
     wrap.
  *  The accompanying trailer is fitted with matching tires and wheels.

"The Michelin designers and concept tire team have been excellent partners in this project," said Tom Semple, president, Nissan Design America, Inc. "The hard work and creative ingenuity have been excellent assets to the project."