BARCELONA, Spain (March 1, 2004) — Michelin North America Inc. has officially launched its Pilot Sport PS2 ultra-high performance tire, the first of four replacement tires that are part of the tire maker's so-called “Year of Performance.”
The tire, which was previewed during the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show last November in Las Vegas, goes on sale today at authorized Michelin dealers in the U.S. and Canada. Dealers in Mexico will begin selling the tire April 5. Michelin said the Pilot Sport PS2 will be available in 59 sizes, beginning with 33 at introduction with the remainder to be launched throughout the year.
The first of four new performance tires to be launched in the replacement market in 2004, the tire is designed to expand driving performance without compromising key features like wet and dry grip, cornering and durability, Michelin said. The Pilot Sport PS2—which the company said is “reminiscent of the looks of a Formula One tire”—features a “Variable Contact Patch” system that aims to put more rubber in contact with the road during extreme cornering to enhance grip and performance.
Other performance tires slated to be launched this year include the Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 and Michelin Pilot XGT Z4 in June, and the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2, set to debut in August.