Motor Road Transport For Commercial Purposes
(Liquid Fuel, Steam, Electricity)

150 MOTOR ROAD TRANSPORT effects, (<7) the increased load capacity for a given horse-power. It is probable that the extensive use of pneumatic tyres, to the explusion of the solid type, would. result in less road wear and tear, and consequently in lighter taxation. The writer is not so optimistic, however, on this score as some would seem to be, for the reason that speed is a factor in road damage which counts for a good deal, while not only would the aggregate annual mileage of motor vehicles in Great Britain be vastly increased, but owing to higher road speeds many of our highways would require reconstruction. It is unlikely that any beneficial effect would accrue as regards this particular matter of road surface for a number of years. Nevertheless, if we pave the way for the next generation for more efficient road transport we shall have progressed. Disadvantages. Following are the disadvantages in the use of large pneumatic tyres— (1) The most serious handicap is the likelihood when the covers get worn of a puncture or burst. Therein lies a possible source of unreliability, the greatest enemy of industrial traction. To-day there are in this country some hundreds of vehicles operating on giant pneumatics, but because the movement is still in its infancy there is little data of value with regard to the period when the tyres get worn down. Such questions as (a) when to retread in order to get the most out of a cover and yet save a burst ; (&) the significance of any unreliability in running due to tyre troubles ; and (c) the amount of danger attendant on a burst when the vehicle is being driven fast—espe- cially with reference to public service motors—have yet to be answered satisfactorily.