CAR tires are black due to the addition of carbon black, a material mixed with rubber to improve its durability, strength and durability.
At first, the tires were lighter in color or even white, because natural rubber is a pale, milky color.
When automobiles first began production in the early 20th century, manufacturers used natural rubber to make tires, resulting in a white or light-colored appearance. To strengthen them, they added zinc oxide, which made the tires even shinier.
However, as car speeds developed and road conditions changed, the need for more durable tires became apparent.
During the 1910s, manufacturers discovered that adding carbon black to rubber greatly improved its wear resistance and performance by strengthening the rubber's structure and protecting it from UV radiation and heat. Carbon black also makes the tire more resistant to cracking and extends its life.
By the 1920s, the use of carbon black became standard in tire manufacturing, turning tires black and giving them their distinctive appearance today.
This change not only improved the practical aspects of the tires but also had the added benefit of making them easier to clean and maintain compared to white or light colored tires.