Michelin demonstrated predictive tyre health technology using a 1970 Ford Bronco retrofitted with Sonatus technology.
Michelin and Sonatus will showcase predictive tyre health technology at CES 2026. The demonstration will highlight Michelin’s SmartLoad and SmartWear models deployed through Sonatus AI Director to deliver real-time, in-vehicle tyre insights.
The companies said predictive tyre health technology can help fleets and drivers better understand how real-world conditions affect tyre performance and longevity.
Predictive Tyre Health Technology Goes Beyond Sensors
Traditional tyre monitoring systems rely on pressure sensors or mileage estimates. These systems do not account for braking intensity, vehicle load, or cornering forces. Michelin said it designed SmartLoad and SmartWear to analyse high-frequency vehicle signals instead.
The models deliver continuous insights into tyre health. Michelin said this approach can help fleets optimise tyre usage, improve safety, and reduce operating costs. According to Frost & Sullivan, software-based tyre monitoring that virtualises sensors could reduce bill of materials costs by $1.68 billion by 2030.
In-Vehicle Deployment Supports Tyre Digital Twin
Michelin combines tyre physics, modeling, and data with Sonatus’ in-vehicle AI orchestration. Together, the companies demonstrate how Michelin Tyre Digital Twin can support predictive maintenance at scale.
Sonatus Collector AI allows Michelin to calibrate algorithms for new automakers. Sonatus AI Director enables secure, containerised deployment across multiple electronic control units, it said. This setup allows the models to run at the vehicle edge, reducing cloud reliance and helping protect sensitive data.
“Our demonstrations at CES 2026 showcase how software-defined vehicle platforms can operationalise advanced partner solutions,” said Alexandre Corjon, senior vice president of engineering, Sonatus. “We are illustrating how predictive tyre maintenance can be integrated into the vehicle environment. This provides a clear view of the potential for safer, more efficient, and more sustainable mobility.”
“Michelin SmartLoad and SmartWear showcase how our expertise in tyre physics and modelling turns complex data into clear, predictive insights,” said Michelin Vice President of Michelin Tyre Digital Twin, Ali Rezgui. “These solutions help automakers and fleets extend tyre life, improve safety, reduce costs, and support sustainable mobility. Michelin SmartWear and SmartLoad are the first building blocks of a full portfolio that will enable the OEMs to have Tire Digital Twin in their vehicles. As the tyre is the vehicle’s only link to the road, its digital twin must be unique, versatile, and integrated with most vehicle dynamic software functions.”
CES 2026 Demonstration Details
Michelin will demonstrate predictive tyre health technology using a 1970 Ford Bronco retrofitted with Sonatus technology. The display will show how SmartLoad and SmartWear generate real-time insights. Michelin will also demonstrate how its MyTyres application converts vehicle data into actionable information.
