Even tiremakers dislike BMW's run-flats

BMW's run-flat tires have been the target of as much criticism as its quirky iDrive and flame-surface styling. For all its praise-worthy attributes, it seems there are a few annoyance BMW won't let go of. Run-flat tires are one of them, and even Michelin -- one of the companies that makes the tires for BMW -- is speaking out against them. "It is a very heavy tire, there is additional cost, fuel consumption is higher because of the very thick sidewalls, and comfort is hampered," a Michelin spokesperson admitted. Companies like BMW are motivated to remove spare tires for cost and space. Safety, however, is another consideration. BMW says the tires make sure customers do not lose control when they have a puncture.