CLERMONT-FERRAND, France (Nov. 24, 2010) — Group Michelin has developed a successor to its Pilot Sport PS2 ultra-high-performance (UHP) tire that draws on the firm´s racing tire technology to deliver longer tread life as well as improved wet and dry grip.
The Pilot Super Sport will launch in Europe in early January in 31 sizes in five rim diameters and in April in North Ameica with an even larger size range.
Michelin said it tapped into technology from its engagement in international endurance racing for the Super Sport, which replaces the PS2 that was certified as OE on more than 200 vehicles, Michelin said.
Clermont-Ferrand-based Michelin claims the new tire's performance exceeds that of its predecessor in all categories, thanks to the use of three proprietary technologies: an aramid fiber belt; dual-compound tread; and variable contact patch geometry.
Michelin is rolling out the tire in 31 sizes in five rim diameters, ranging from 225/45ZR18 to 265/30ZR22 and including sizes up to 345mm wide. It did not disclose pricing information.
Michelin North America Inc. plans to have some 17-inch sizes available as well when the tire launches in April.
Much of the development work was done with Porsche A.G., BMW A.G.'s M division and Ferrari S.p.A., Michelin said.
Michelin claims, among other things, that the Super Sport: delivers 10-percent longer road-going treadlife; shortens wet braking from 50 mph by nearly 10 feet; and shortens dry braking from 65 mph by 4 to 4.5 feet.