Pirelli Rally Tires: secrets for maximum performance

Maximizing Performance: The Importance of Tires in Rally Car Racing

The tires on our Rally car are crucial because they are the only point of contact between the vehicle and the ground. They play a critical role in impacting overall performance and can make all the difference on the special stage. They’re the only component that allows us to transfer power to the ground, steer the vehicle, and navigate corners at high speeds. As there are numerous factors that affect their proper functioning, let’s explore them together.

Pirelli rally tires: available compounds and models

Pirelli, Italian manufacturer, have designed and produced various types of rally tires to suit all driving conditions, including:

• tires for modern rally cars
• tires for historic rally cars

Subcategories include:

• Dry asphalt tires
• Wet asphalt tires
• Snowy asphalt tires
• Gravel tires
• Ice tires

Dry asphalt and gravel tires come in a variety of compounds, ranging from the softest to the hardest, to ensure maximum grip and ideal performance under various temperature conditions. The ultimate goal of selecting the correct compound is to choose one that can function effectively within its designated temperature range, avoiding the problems of overheating or too-low operating temperatures, which can impede the mechanical grip action of the rubber mix.

Factors affecting the functioning of rally tires

Once the ideal model and rubber compound have been selected, the first variable we control is the tire pressure. The manufacturer’s engineers have determined the optimal pressure value for maximum tire performance. It’s important to reach this pressure during the special stage and not exceed it to avoid performance loss. Choosing the right pressure value to start the special stage is thus crucial. External elements such as air temperature, grip, special stage length and driving style influence pressure changes, making it essential to understand these dynamics to devise an effective strategy.

The impact of driving on rally tire performance, pressure, and wear

Rally tires are put to the test during special stages, enduring significant longitudinal and transversal forces. The driver plays a critical role in determining the load and force values that the tire must bear, depending on their driving style and use of vehicle momentum. Effective driving techniques can maximize the potential of tires without causing unnecessary strain, while incorrect driving – such as excessive understeering – can lead to premature tire wear and damage. Given the complexity of factors involved in tire performance, our Rally Courses for drivers offer a comprehensive analysis of tires and techniques for optimal use. Participants in rally courses with FIA-approved rally cars have the added opportunity to test tire compounds and ensure their proper application in the field.