Bulletproof Tires: Are They Real? (Explained!)

Vehicle tires come in different types, qualities, and price ranges. But, choosing which ones to get will depend on your needs and convenience.

Are bulletproof tires real? Well, technically, there are no such things as bulletproof vehicle tires. However, some tires are resistant with rubber or metal bands inside. These types of tires don’t need air to remain rigid, but they have a girded sidewall to keep them rigid without any air pressure.

Due to the high demand in terms of security, bulletproof tires have become the outstanding type of wheels for most high-ranking officials, police, military, diplomats, ambassadors, presidents, and many more.

However, some are still debating whether bulletproof tires are real or not. So, in this article, we will discover the truth and more things about it. So, without further ado, let us start!

Table of Contents

Do Bulletproof Tires Exist?

Bulletproof is the term most experts and manufacturers use to describe these innovative vehicle tires.

Essentially, a “bulletproof tire” absorbs or deflects the impact energy of the projectile in a manner that keeps it functional even after an impact.

A bulletproof tire is a run-flat tire that resists deflation when punctured and helps the vehicle and its occupants escape harm, even if its speed is reduced for a limited period. In addition, due to its air-less tire design, this vehicle is resistant to bullets and nails.

Rubber or metal bands are inserted inside these tires to make them resistant. Its purpose is to provide traction and control when they are shredded.

How Much Do Bulletproof Tires Cost?

Bulletproof tires are a bit pricey.

A bulletproof tire usually costs somewhere between $200 and $500. This amount is about a 50% to 200% price increase compared to standard tire pricing.

How Do They Make Bulletproof Tires?

Bulletproof tires are referred to as run-flat tires. A run-flat tire is a pneumatic type of automobile tire invented to withstand the impacts of deflation when spiked and allow the car to continue to run at lowered speeds, beneath 56 mph—and for restricted distances, commonly between 10 and 50 miles.

There are two different types of run-flat-tire, and they are built differently in some ways somehow.

Run-flat tires primarily come in two types: self-supporting and support ring. In the event of air loss, the self-supporting run-flat tire is designed with a reinforced sidewall that will continue to support the vehicle.

On the other hand, the support ring run-flat tire system is built with a rigid rubber ring or another material created to sustain the car’s weight after a spike.

As with both systems, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warns the driver when tire pressure drops. The driver may fail to notice an underinflated tire without it.

In addition to being installed for normal driving, run-flat tires also provide protection against bullet punctures.

Are Military Tires Bulletproof?

Most military vehicle tires are made bulletproof. As a result, their tires can withstand the power of gunfire, extreme terrain, explosions, IEDs, and these tires have a maximum speed of 25mph.

Are Bulletproof Tires Legal?

Yes, bulletproof tires are legal. You can even own or purchase vehicles with bulletproof tires.

Some cars are also furnished with run-flat tires, a smokescreen emitter, and even designed with road tack dispenser systems.

Are Kevlar Tires Bulletproof?

No, Kevlar tires aren’t bulletproof. Kevlar reinforces the sidewall with less belting. Its purpose is to make the MT/R more manageable to air down compared to the tires with more sidewall belting.

Summary

In summary, the run-flat tires or these bulletproof tires’ designed materials and upgrades are what make them bulletproof.

These types of vehicle tires may be pricey, but they assure high quality and secure your safety while you drive despite your tires being punctured.

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Image credits – Canva