Automakers are increasingly doing away with spare tires in new vehicles as a way to improve fuel efficiency and create more space for accessories, according to a Wall Street Journal report. As a result of this latest trend, some automakers, such as Toyota Motor Corp., Nissan Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co., are including “run flat” tires that are designed to run anywhere from 50 miles to 125 miles after puncture, which ideally allows drivers enough time to find a repair shop. BMW AG now offers run-flats or tire-repair kits instead of spares on models in three of its eight vehicle lines, including its popular 2006 3 Series, according to The Journal report. Consumers, however, are finding that run-flats can cost more than twice as much to replace as conventional tires, and some are finding that run-flats don’t last as long as regular tires.
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