Abstract: A dual purpose automotive tire apparatus for alternatively supporting a vehicle's tire and/or rim in the event of a flat tire or providing enhanced traction for a vehicle on a slippery road surface. The apparatus includes a pair of elongated flexible retaining members defining extended end portions, a plurality of evenly spaced support members carried by and extending laterally between the retaining members and each defining a first surface providing a tread and second surface providing a traction element. Attachment members are provided for joining the extended end portions of the retaining members together about the vehicle tire and/or rim such that the first surfaces collectively project outwardly therefrom for supporting said tire and/or rim in the event of a flat tire or such that the second surfaces collectively project outwardly therefrom for providing traction on a slippery surface.