WASHINGTON: An Indian-American owned engineering firm is developing zero pressure tyre for the U.S. military, which would change the dynamics of not only war but also the auto industry.

Akron, Ohio-based American Engineering Group (AEG), has received a $1 million Phase-II project grant from the US department of defense to develop tyres that will continue running even after being shredded by roadside bombs or gunfire, a media release said on Thursday.

Though military vehicle tyres are now equipped with run-flat inserts, the defence department wants to upgrade to a zero pressure tyre that's better at carrying heavier loads and can quickly move soldiers out of harm's way, it added.

Zero pressure tyres have been around for a long time, with major drawbacks such as bumpy rides and overheating.

The AEG prototype dissipates heat and has the tyre flexibility and strength to support the heavy military pick-up weight while providing a relatively smooth ride.

"AEG's motivation and driving force for this project are that AEG gets the privilege to be of help to save lives of our soldiers," said its owner Abraham Pannikottu.

Abraham has a mechanical engineering degree from Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (Surat, Gujarat). He later completed graduate studies in polymer science at the University of Akron. He has written several research articles on engineering applications of rubber.

His group is also working on new innovative product such as U.S. national football league helmet and implantable cost-effective titanium hip and knee.
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