…the cost and how they workIn South Africa, the demand for armoured vehicles has soared, especially in regions where security is a significant concern. However, even the most fortified vehicles can be vulnerable if their wheels aren’t equally protected.
To address this issue, SVI Engineering, based in Gauteng, offers a solution: Flats Over run-flat tyre safety bands. These bands are designed to keep vehicles moving even when their tyres are severely damaged.
A set of four Flats Over run-flat rings starts at R43,786 or $2,343 (excluding VAT). These innovative safety bands ensure that vehicles can keep moving even after the tyres have been shredded by metal spikes or bullets.
How bulletproof wheels work
The Flats Over run-flat tyre safety bands are designed with robust rubber rings, split into two halves and secured by a cable structure that tightens around the rim inside the standard tyre. This setup creates a smaller, highly durable “spare wheel” within each tyre.
This system protects against sudden pressure loss from road spikes or ballistic attacks, allowing the tyres to remain fully functional even after multiple gunshots. Additionally, these rings help mitigate damage from potholes, a common hazard on South African roads.
Real-world testing
To demonstrate the effectiveness of these run-flat rings, SVI Engineering conducted a test using one of its armoured bakkies fitted with safety bands. The vehicle was driven over a spike strip designed to cause maximum damage.
“After the bakkie accelerated over the spikes, both tyres on the driver’s side lost pressure,” explained Nicol Louw, SVI’s Business Development Director on TopAuto. “However, thanks to the run-flat rings fitted inside the tyres, the vehicle remained fully controllable, allowing the driver to keep going – and going and going, even after one of the tyres had virtually disintegrated.”
During the test, the vehicle covered 23 kilometres at an approximate speed of 50 km/h, with no damage to the rims. “It’s telling that what ultimately forced us to stop was simply the fact that we ran out of time,” said Louw. “This is tangible proof that even the most aggressive spikes are no match for the Flats Over run-flat solution, which gives motorists the vitally important ability to just keep driving.”
Broader applications
The Flats Over run-flat rings are not limited to armoured vehicles. They can be installed on conventional passenger cars, trailers, and most other vehicles with 16- to 23-inch wheels. The installation process is straightforward and can be handled by most tyre shops after a brief training session.
While the initial cost of the run-flat rings is significant, the peace of mind they offer, particularly in high-risk areas, makes them a worthwhile investment. In an environment where safety is paramount, SVI Engineering’s innovative solution is proving to be an invaluable asset for drivers across South Africa.
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