How is Machine Learning Reinventing Tire Performance? | with Jeremy Vayssettes of Michelin
In this podcast episode recorded at CES 2026, Jeremy Vayssettes, Chief Technology Officer for Tire Digital Twin at Michelin, discusses how the company is expanding beyond traditional tire manufacturing into AI-powered software solutions. Jeremy explains Michelin's innovative tire digital twin technology, including SmartWear and SmartLoad algorithms that monitor tire condition in real-time using existing vehicle sensors without additional hardware. These models enable predictive maintenance, helping fleets optimize tire replacement timing, reduce costs, and improve safety. The conversation covers how the technology integrates with ADAS systems to provide better grip prediction and vehicle performance optimization throughout the tire's lifecycle. Jeremy also discusses Michelin's partnership with Sonatus, which uses the Sonatus AI Director infrastructure to scale these solutions across different vehicle manufacturers. The episode highlights the sustainability benefits of the technology, and how AI can help extend tire life while maintaining safety and performance.
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Michelin's Innovations
0:47 Introducing Jeremy Vayssettes
2:42 Understanding Michelin's Broader Mission
3:55 The Role of Software in Tire Technology
4:48 AI Innovations in Tire Management
7:54 The Benefits of Smart Sensors vs. AI
9:34 Developing a Comprehensive Tire Digital Twin
12:37 Sustainability in Tire Management
13:50 Collaboration with Sonatus
18:29 Future Prospects and Closing Thoughts
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Michelin's Innovations
0:47 Introducing Jeremy Vayssettes
2:42 Understanding Michelin's Broader Mission
3:55 The Role of Software in Tire Technology
4:48 AI Innovations in Tire Management
7:54 The Benefits of Smart Sensors vs. AI
9:34 Developing a Comprehensive Tire Digital Twin
12:37 Sustainability in Tire Management
13:50 Collaboration with Sonatus
18:29 Future Prospects and Closing Thoughts
Creators and Guests
Host
John Heinlein, Ph.D.
An experienced technology and marketing leader, John brings his background from startups and established companies to Sonatus. He worked for 14 years at Arm, most recently leading Automotive Partnerships for North America where he engaged OEMs, Tier-1s, and others to deploy Arm-based solutions into automotive applications, including autonomous vehicles. His team was integral to launching the SOAFEE industry initiative for software-defined vehicles of which Sonatus is a member. Earlier he served as VP and Chief of Staff to the CEO and led a group responsible for competitive strategy. For three years, he was VP of Corporate Marketing where he led centralized outbound marketing, spanning marketing campaigns, press, events, web, digital marketing, ecosystem programs, and working closely with investor relations. Prior to Arm, John had an 11-year tenure at microprocessor startup Transmeta where he held several senior roles spanning business development, marketing, and customer success, among others. John earned his B.S. in Computer Engineering from Carnegie-Mellon University and an M.S. and Ph.D., both in Electrical Engineering, from Stanford University.
