Tire & Wheel

Since 1925, the experts at Smithers have delivered independent laboratory testing and material analysis for tires and wheels of virtually every type. In addition, our market and technical consulting support the industry's toughest challenges.

Smithers recognizes the importance and legislative demands for tire and wheel manufacturers and assists with independent testing to understand construction, material selection and performance expectations. Our tire and wheel testing labs conduct a wide variety of durability and performance tests supported by compound development, analysis, and a full failure analysis service.

Tire Proving Grounds

Tire Proving Grounds

Tire Proving Grounds

Smithers is proud to manage an 898-acre proving ground for tire and vehicle dynamics, just fifty miles southwest of San Antonio, Texas. First established in 1999, the test facility has evolved over the years to offer a wide range of test surfaces, from rigorous off-road test courses to customizable vehicle dynamics areas (VDAs) and noise assessment lanes.

Tire Technical Consulting

Tire Technical Consulting

Tire Technical Consulting

Smithers was founded in 1925 with the idea of supporting the tire industry with analytical data that would support the growth in tire technology. Today, our consulting team continues that legacy by supporting clients on their toughest challenges.

Tire Testing

Tire Testing

Understanding the performance of tires and tire mechanics is critical in determining their influence on the ride, handling and safety of cars, commercial vehicles, and airplanes. With over 90 years of expertise in rubber testing, Smithers provides custom tire analysis and standard testing to meet your requirements.

Wheel Testing

Wheel Testing

Investing in wheel testing to meet or exceed client needs can help you earn the trust of both new and existing clients. Our laboratories perform precisely controlled and repeatable wheel testing to meet clients’ exact specifications. Using our wheel rim testing services for aftermarket parts will help you understand the durability and performance characteristics of your wheels.

Electric Vehicle Tires Special Report

Electric Vehicle Tires Special Report

Electric Vehicle Tires Special Report

With the global demand of electric vehicles on the rise, Smithers takes its industry expertise into the next evolution of insight.

Market Reports

Market Reports

Market Reports

Effective rubber compound development

Using recycled plastic materials: assessing comparative properties

Using recycled plastic materials: designing effective testing programs

AS9110 vs AS9100: Looking Closer at the Differences

How to optimize seal design to avoid failure