Pirelli has announced a significant milestone for its Elect tyre technology, achieving over 500 homologations since the product line's debut in 2019. Specifically engineered for electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids, the Elect range has quickly become a go-to choice for seven out of ten premium and prestige car manufacturers.
Pirelli Elect tyres have been tailored to meet the unique demands of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, offering several benefits over traditional tyres. According to Pirelli, these tyres can extend an EV’s range by up to 50 kilometres compared to conventional tyres. This added efficiency could lead to savings of up to €150 per year on charging costs, making them a practical choice for cost-conscious drivers.
Piero Misani, Chief Technical Officer at Pirelli, remarked, "Electric cars are very different from traditional internal combustion vehicles, so require specific tyres. The number of homologations obtained from major manufacturers confirms the validity of the path we have chosen to follow, which is to offer technology that can be adapted to vehicles, tyres, and seasons." He further highlighted how modern tools like virtualization and artificial intelligence have enabled Pirelli to design products that precisely meet the technical and performance demands of EVs.
Pirelli Elect tyres boast several features that set them apart, including advanced compounds that provide increased grip to manage the high torque of electric motors. Their reinforced structures help to support the added weight of EV batteries, contributing to a 20% reduction in tyre wear. Additionally, these tyres significantly enhance acoustic comfort inside the vehicle, reducing cabin noise by up to 20%, which is particularly beneficial in EVs where engine noise is absent.
Since its launch with the first-generation P Zero tyres for the Porsche Taycan, the Elect technology has been integrated across Pirelli’s product families. The P Zero range, known for its high-performance attributes, now features Elect technology in over 30% of its sizes. This technology is also increasingly present in Pirelli's Scorpion range, designed for SUVs, and the Cinturato range, aimed at sedans and CUVs. Moreover, the Elect range includes winter tyres (22%) and all-season tyres (17%), bringing the benefits of noise reduction and lower rolling resistance to a wider range of driving conditions.
Pirelli's commitment to innovation in the EV sector is evident from the rapid adoption of Elect tyres by major car manufacturers. With over 500 homologations, Pirelli has cemented its position as a leader in the growing EV market, providing tailored solutions that enhance the driving experience while addressing the specific needs of electric vehicles.
