Eli5 Why do tires use air instead of solid rubber all the wsy?

Question

Wouldnt a solid rubber tire do the same job with no risk of punctures?

In: 296

Answer 1

Solid rubber tires would be much heavier, which would weight the car down, reduce fuel efficiency, make them harder to manage/maneuver for replacement.

Solid tires would be much more harsh of a ride because it wouldn’t absorb as much of the road bumps, etc.

Cost would be significantly higher due to the added material, but they’d still need to be replaced as often due to treat wear.