Pirelli P Zero spec'd OE on BMW electric i-4 M50

MILAN — German car maker BMW A.G. has selected the Pirelli P Zero Elect as an optional original equipment fitment for the 2023 i4 M50 model, the first fully electric car developed by the brand's "M" high-performance division.

The four-door, five-passenger hatchback has two electric motors providing power to the four wheels, according to Pirelli, providing a power output of 400kW (equivalent to 544 hp) that delivers 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 3.9 seconds.

BMW is offering the P Zero Elect as an optional fitment in sizes 255/34R20 XL (front) and 285/30R20 XL (rear). The standard fitment for this vehicle are sizes 245/40R19 (front) and 255/40R19 (rear), but BMW did not identify which brand or brands it offers standard.

Pirelli said it developed P Zero tires with Elect technology, identified by the markings on the sidewall. The Elect logo, Pirelli said, also indicates the tire has been developed to "complement the characteristics of battery electric vehicles (BEV) and plug-in hybrid vehicles, such as instant torque, increased weight from the batteries and silent travel."

The P Zero Elect has been reinforced to support the car and deliver maximum performance, using a high-grip compound designed to provide grip for a precise and efficient handling.

Both entities celebrated milestones in 2022: BMW's sporting M division turned 50, while Pirelli marked its 150th anniversary.

Pirelli provides fitments for the BMW X3 M and X6 M SUVs, with P Zero for summer and Scorpion winter for the colder months. Pirelli also equips the 8 Series with P Zero tires and the M5 CS with P Zero Corsa, for use on both the track and the road.