A revolutionary new tyre that is kinder to soils than tracks is set to help farmers further reduce the compaction risk from tractors later this year.

Developed in Israel, the Galileo CupWheel is a hybrid system that combines the traction and flotation advantages of rubber tracks with the roadability, efficiency and compatibility advantages of tyres.

Sameh Todd, vice-president at Galileo, explains that the technology is at present used mainly on central pivot irrigators in Israel.

See also: How to reduce soil compaction and optimise crop yields

But it is now being introduced to other markets for use on tractors and construction vehicles.

Sameh says the footprint is more like a track, but with less ground pressure. 

That’s because a track has two to three rollers that vibrate and the weight is not uniformly spread across the area.

Whereas with the cup wheel, it is spread over the whole footprint as its construction allows the tyre to change its geometry.

“Traction is amazing because of its footprint.” Fuel consumption is reduced because more horsepower is on the ground, he adds.

The tyre runs at 0.48 bar (7psi) which is lower than VF low pressure tyres (down to 0.8 bar), resulting in very low soil compaction.

However, one key advantage is that the CupWheel can be used on the road, giving good stability at speed.

Another benefit is if a farmer gets a puncture, they can continue field work and then go home to repair.

In fact, Galileo is selling airless versions for skid steers and telehandlers.

The cost is 35% higher than VF tyres, but is still lower than a track system, says Sameh.

Tyres will be will be available at the end of this year and the UK distributor is Kirkby Tyres, near Liverpool.