Green light from the FIA for gravel rubberThe new WRC gravel tyre from Pirelli is an innovative product that is both robust and environmentally friendly.
The 2008 FIA WRC regulations state that anti-deflation mousse cannot be used; so next year's gravel tyre has
been considerably strengthened in order to resist cuts, abrasions and punctures from sharp rocks, potholes, and other such obstacles.
Pirelli's technicians have relied on their experience of making run-flat road tyres in designing the gravel covers for the FIA World Rally Championship.
Pirelli, the Italian tyre manufacturer designated by the FIA as the Official Tyre Supplier to the FIA World Rally Championship from 2008-2010, has revealed the second tyre that will be used on the series next year.
Following on from the asphalt WRC tyre that was launched at the end of September, Pirelli's new gravel tyre has now been revealed.
This tyre has been developed during several test sessions carried out all over Europe, using a Peugeot 307 WRC prepared by Bozian Racing and piloted by Italian rally champion Paolo Andreucci.
Pirelli's new gravel tyre is called Scorpion, underlining the link between rally tyres and the Pirelli Scorpion road tyres fitted to off-road vehicles and SUVs.
Just as was the case for the asphalt WRC rubber, the new gravel tyre has been checked and approved by the FIA. The green light has now been given for production of the all-new gravel rally covers to begin.
Source Pirelli
