Pirelli has launched the fifth generation of its flagship P Zero tire family. The innovations in this latest P Zero were achieved using advanced development technologies. By combining AI systems with algorithms designed by Pirelli, the company’s research and development engineers created new solutions borne out of an increased understanding of tire performance dynamics. Virtual prototype testing also played a key role in this process, reducing development time and optimizing resources.
The P Zero has two key strengths: improved handling (highlighted by track tests on dry and wet surfaces) and reduced braking distances. The new tire has been rated ‘A’ on the European wet-grip label.
The development strategy focused on tire structure and tread design. The latter was optimized through updates to the grooves and contact patch to enhance cornering grip. A more balanced contact patch improves braking performance and wear rate to ensure consistent performance throughout the lifecycle of the tire. The new P Zero also features new graphics with contrasting markings on the sidewall.
The fifth-generation P Zero tire comes in sizes from 18in to 23in, with over 50 products already available. These sit alongside the other tires from the P Zero family to provide coverage for the premium and prestige market across all applications. Most of the new line-up features Pirelli’s technologies (such as Elect, a technology package for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles), adopting solutions specifically designed to handle high torque and reduce noise.
Pirelli engineers are already working to equip dozens of soon-to-be-released cars, with specific versions already homologated for models such as the Lamborghini Urus SE, Audi A5, BMW M5 and M5 Touring, Mercedes GLE and GLS, Lucid Gravity, Polestar 4, Nio ET9 and Xiaomi SU7.
Over the past 40 years, more than 3,000 bespoke versions of the P Zero have been created for cars such as the Ferrari F40, Lamborghini Aventador, McLaren P1, every Pagani, Aston Martin V12 Vantage and Porsche 911, as well as dozens of other models from brands including Audi, BMW, Jaguar Land Rover and Mercedes.
