This is one of those things that look cool, but really isn’t. The D’Vinci Forgiato Radurra wheels are made from 2-inch thick polycarbonate and come in 20, 22 and 24-inch sizes. They’ll be available for about $2,000.
Now, as far as I’m concerned, the thing that makes these wheels not nearly as cool as they seem is the obvious dirt factor. To perform as desired, you’d basically have to have a wheel-Sherpa that got out and cleaned your wheels whenever the car stopped. Plus, even if you somehow magically manage to keep that polycarbonate clean, well then it’s just providing a view of your grimey ass brakes. Yea, no thanks.
Clear wheels showcased at SEMA [Mobile Magazine via Engadget]
I have to wonder how heat-resistant that material is, as well, not to mention torsion-resistance… Low profile tires get hot a lot quicker than normal tires, and that might just melt while you’re cruising on the highway. Not to mention that the lateral forces that the wheels have to support when you make a sharp turn are enormous, especially at higher speeds. What’s to stop that plastic contraption from falling apart when you corner? This has to be a show-only item, not built for practical, real world use.
As far as your comment about keeping the wheel clean! Here is my answer to that.
1- A person who buys these wheels will not drive this car everyday.
2- A person who buys this wheel can afford for someone to come to their house everyother week and take the wheels of and clean them
3- A person who buys these wheels do not care to impress a girl sitting in the next car. They probably have a lot of bling and green to do that. They just want to be seen in a one of a kind car.
4- Oh!! by the way these wheels are not $ 2,000.00 retail They are aprox
$ 4,500.00 you haven’t even done your homework right to be able to judge these wheels. Why don’t you call the manufacturer and get more facts.
Polycarbonates can with stand temps. up to 374-500°F Before they start to melt.