Pirelli prepared for the 2014 rally season …
Scorpion
RK
Sottozero
Sottozero Ice
Pirelli has revealed details of its 2014 rally tyre line-up ahead of this weekend’s Monte Carlo Rally. They have four completely new tyres for the Monte, and the forthcoming Rally Sweden, but they are not just destined for the WRC, they will be available for “other key rally championships” all over the world.
The tyre that will be used most often is the new RK, in 235/40R18 size, which is available for all the top cars from the new R5 class upwards. This product, designed for asphalt, has two longitudinal grooves – in accordance with the regulations – for use in both dry and wet conditions.
This tyre will be available in two compounds for the WRC: hard for dry conditions, and soft for wet or low-grip conditions. A third compound, supersoft, will be homologated for the Monte Carlo Rally, to be used in very cold conditions.
Completing the asphalt range for Monte Carlo is the SOTTOZERO, in 235/40R18 size. This tyre comes in two versions: studded, for snow and ice, and without studs.
For gravel rallies, the Pirelli SCORPION XR will be available in 205/65-15 size. Designed for tough gravel rallies, it is distinguished by a symmetrical tread pattern that enhances durability and increases resistance to punctures. Two compounds will cater for the most severe and abrasive conditions, such as those found in Portugal, Mexico and Italy and a soft version for less aggressive surfaces like Finland. The soft compound can also be used for cold conditions with mud, as often found on Rally GB, for example.
Completing the range is the SOTTOZERO ICE in 205/65-15 size. This studded tyre is designed exclusively for Rally Sweden, and is meant for snowy and icy stages, with 380 studs to ensure high grip.
Mario Isola, Pirelli’s Racing Manager, presented the new tyres and explained their characteristics. “The hallmark of our new tyres is their versatility but at the same time their specific focus. So we have developed tyres like the RK for asphalt and Scorpion for gravel that are suited to wide variety of rallies, both on the World Championship and the European Championship. We’ve also developed some specific tyres for more specialised events, such as Monte Carlo and Sweden. In line with the sporting regulations we will have just one tread pattern for asphalt and gravel. This brings our competition tyres even closer to the tyres we make for the road.”