As Tire Technology Expo 2025 approaches, TTI had the opportunity to speak with Kanwar Bharat Singh, head of algorithms and software engineering at Goodyear, about his upcoming presentation, Road Perception Technology for ADAS and Autonomous Driving Applications. Singh’s work focuses on groundbreaking advancements in tire-based road perception technologies, a vital component for the future of autonomous vehicles.
Could you introduce what you will be presenting at Tire Technology Expo 2025?
Kanwar Bharat Singh: I will be showcasing the latest advancements in Goodyear SightLine technology, which is designed to monitor road conditions and tire grip in real time. This technology leverages smart software, sensors, and algorithms to provide precise, actionable insights.
Additionally, I will introduce a state-of-the-art direct sensing solution that uses optical sensors. These sensors are engineered for the high precision required in automated driving, offering a transformative approach to road perception.
How can tires contribute to road perception, and what advantages do they offer over traditional sensors like cameras or lidar?
Unlike cameras, lidar, and radar, which rely on visual data, tires directly interact with the road. This allows them to detect changes in grip and traction more reliably, especially in adverse weather conditions like rain, fog, or snow, where visual sensors often struggle.
Tires provide localized, real-time feedback about road conditions, enabling vehicles to respond quickly to challenges like hydroplaning or slippery surfaces. This makes them a vital enhancement to vehicle safety systems, complementing data from other sensors. Integrating these technologies into tires is also a cost-effective way to improve road perception, enhance safety, and support connected vehicle ecosystems.
What are some recent advancements in tire-based road perception systems?
Two key trends are driving advancements. Firstly, the shift to electric vehicles has made more detailed data available, enabling virtual tire models to predict road conditions and grip with greater accuracy. Secondly, machine learning advancements now allow us to combine proven tire physics with data-driven methods. This hybrid approach results in more accurate and reliable systems, improving real-time road assessments and vehicle safety.
What key takeaways do you expect the audience to gain from your presentation?
My presentation will explore the challenges of road condition monitoring for advanced driver-assistance systems and autonomous vehicles. Attendees will learn about Goodyear SightLine’s innovative solutions, which leverage advanced sensing and fusion technologies. I will also showcase real-world examples of how these systems enhance the performance and safety of ADAS and automated driving applications.
What challenges are faced in integrating tire-based perception technologies into ADAS or autonomous vehicles?
One major challenge is achieving consistent reliability across diverse driving conditions. Estimating road conditions and tire grip accurately – especially in low-slip scenarios – requires sophisticated algorithms and data fusion.
Another challenge is fine-tuning these systems for specific vehicles. Variations in tire types, wear, and driving environments add complexity, making it essential to ensure consistent sensor performance.
Why did you decide to present on this topic, and how does it align with current trends in tire innovation?
As driver assistance systems advance toward higher levels of automation, the need for better situational awareness and reliable safety data becomes critical. While vision-based systems have improved significantly, they still face challenges in certain conditions. Tire-based sensing offers a consistent and reliable backup to these systems, enhancing safety and performance. This aligns perfectly with Goodyear SightLine’s mission to innovate road perception technology for autonomous vehicles.
How can tire-road interaction data improve the safety and efficiency of autonomous vehicles?
Tire-road interaction data provides critical insights, such as: estimating tire grip for better braking, acceleration, and cornering control; helping adaptive safety systems respond to dangerous conditions like hydroplaning; enhancing energy efficiency by optimizing tire pressure and vehicle performance, especially for EVs; and acting as a redundant layer of support for traditional sensors in adverse weather conditions.
What future developments do you foresee in tire technology enhancing road perception for autonomous systems?
The future lies in smart, connected tires with embedded sensors that provide high-quality, real-time data. Advances in materials and sensor miniaturization will improve durability and performance in various environments.
These tires will integrate with connected ecosystems to share road condition data, creating real-time cloud-based maps. This will help autonomous vehicles anticipate hazards, ensuring safer and more efficient journeys.
Kanwar Bharat Singh’s presentation will be a highlight of Tire Technology Expo 2025, offering insights into how tire-based sensing technologies are shaping the future of autonomous driving. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about these transformative innovations.
Register now to secure your place at must-attend sessions across the 3-day conference!
