Pirelli ‘talking tires’ at annual UK speed festival

Goodwood, UK - Pirelli brought its latest advances in the field of tire technology to the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed, with particular focus on sensor-enabled systems. 

To the fore  was the Cyber tire, fitted with sensors that enable it “for the first time” to talk to the vehicle stability control systems, including ABS, ESP, and traction control.

Information provided by the sensors is used to offer better performance as well as safety, with an initial adoption on the Pagani Utopia, said Pirelli’s release from the 11-14 July event.

Tires P Zero Corsa, P Zero Trofeo RS and P Zero Win, it said, have been specifically developed for the Pagani Utopia, all equipped with special sensors embedded within the tread. 

These sensors, connected via Bluetooth to the control unit that manages the vehicle’s dynamic systems, enable the car to select the optimal driving mode to match the type of tires fitted. 

This dialogue between the car and tyres is made possible thanks to software created and implemented by Pirelli, which works directly with the car’s electronic ‘brain’. 

For example, it explained, sensor-enabled winter tyres will tell the ABS will be told how to make the most of them to reduce stopping distances. 

Similarly, when the vehicle is on semi-slick tyres, the stability and traction control will be informed that there is additional grip available. 

“This insider ‘technical knowledge’ allows the car’s control systems to work much more effectively, enhancing performance as well as safety,” stated Pirelli.

Image: PA Media / Goodwood Press & Media