Bridgestone launches IndyCar-inspired Firestone Firehawk UHP tire

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Bridgestone Americas Inc. has added the Firestone Firehawk AS V2 — an all-season ultra-high performance (UHP) tire inspired by the IndyCar Firestone Firehawk rain race tire — to the Firehawk product line.

"When designing the Firestone Firehawk AS V2, our goal was to produce an ultra-high-performance tire without trading off its performance in inclement weather," Ian McKenny, senior product manager, Bridgestone Americas, said.

"Our IndyCar rain tires use a braided tread to help deliver exhilarating performance even in a downpour. We've applied that pattern technology directly to the new Firehawk AS V2 to give drivers the chance to experience a sporty drive in any weather condition."

The tire, backed by a 50,000-mile limited treadwear warranty, features a combination of interlocking lugs and full-depth 3D sipes for consistent wear and performance throughout the tire's life, the tire maker said.

The interlocking lugs and large outboard tread blocks provide wet handling and hydroplaning resistance; the 3D full-depth sipes allow the tire to perform in snow throughout the life of the tire; and its Indycar-inspired tread pattern offers sport grip and responsive handling through corners, the company said.

Other features include:

• Increased speed ratings (H,V and W) versus the previous generation Firehawk AS tires (H and V); and
• Shorter stopping distance (five feet) in snow than the previous generation Firehawk AS tires.

The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 launches in 33 sizes, ranging from 205/50R17 to 275/40R20.

It was developed for popular sports and muscle cars such as the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang but is also designed to help enhance the sporty feel of popular sedans and crossovers like the Honda Civic, Nissan Altima, and Toyota RAV4, Bridgestone said.

The tire is available at all Bridgestone-authorized tire dealers in the U.S. and Canada.

Pricing starts at $161.99, according to Firestonetire.com.