This article digs into how Automated Tire Inc. (ATI), run by fourth-generation tire entrepreneur Andy Chalofsky, is rolling out an AI-powered robotic system called SmartBay. The idea? Replace the usual noisy, exhausting tire service with machine-driven precision that can flex to different vehicles, crank up throughput, and cut back on the need for highly skilled techs.
Overview of AI-powered tire service automation
SmartBay marks a move away from rigid, routine machinery toward a flexible robotic system that actually learns from every job. With AI in the mix, the system fine-tunes its process for each car, collects performance data, and keeps getting smarter over time.
The setup fits into a standard 12-foot service bay. That means one technician can now oversee up to three bays at once, which is a pretty big shake-up for shop workflow and staffing.
Key capabilities of SmartBay: it inspects, removes and installs tires, balances wheels, and gathers data to guide maintenance and improve the process. It’s not just a one-trick machine—it adapts as it goes, learning how to handle different tire types, wheel sizes, and service steps.
What SmartBay does for service speed and labor
Normally, tire service takes about 75 minutes per vehicle. ATI’s system can knock out the same job in as little as 30 minutes.
That’s a jump from about four tires per hour to as many as 24, per tech. This leap in efficiency is really what makes automation so compelling for tire shops and dealerships.
Technology, economics, and the leasing model
SmartBay blends robotics and AI to handle tire service in a way fixed machines just can’t. The AI collects data every time it runs, which helps it get faster, more accurate, and better at spotting issues.
The system slots into existing shop layouts without needing a total overhaul, aside from dedicating a 12-foot bay for the robot and its gear.
Leasing, cost, and return on investment
ATI leases SmartBay to dealerships and tire shops at $4,900 per month, or about $60,000 per year. They say that’s less than hiring an experienced tech, and, with throughput tripling, the numbers start to make sense.
The pitch focuses on labor efficiency, running more bays with the same crew, and easing the physical strain and safety risks of manual tire work.
Leadership, track record, and strategic vision
Andy Chalofsky has a long history in the tire world. He scaled Traction Tire to $100 million in distribution and SimpleTire to nearly $1 billion online before selling both.
Now, with SmartBay, he wants to shake up the traditional service shop—less noise, less stink, less heavy lifting—by bringing in machine precision and speed that could change how tire service happens on a big scale.
Operational considerations and workforce impact
With one tech able to supervise several robotic bays, SmartBay could really change job roles in tire shops. Instead of endless, tough manual work, techs might shift to more supervisory and quality-control positions.
This change could help with ergonomics and safety, but it also means skilled workers will need to program, monitor, and maintain the AI system, as well as interpret its data and deal with oddball situations.
Implications for the tire service ecosystem
AI-driven robotic systems like SmartBay are starting to transform how automotive service works. Shops and dealers who jump on board could get ahead with faster service, reliable quality, and the ability to ramp up capacity without needing a ton more skilled staff.
Still, whether this catches on everywhere will depend on how well the tech performs, what it costs to own and maintain, and how smoothly it fits into existing shop routines and inventory systems.
- AI-driven adaptation to vehicle-specific needs
- Significant throughput gains per technician
- Compact integration with existing bays
Here is the source article for this story: AI robot can change your tires in half the time