Pirelli have just launched the latest evolution of its summer tyre for SUVs in the guise of the new Scorpion, designed to deliver safety, driving comfort and long-lasting performance.
The Scorpion tyre was first launched way back in 1986 designed specifically for high-driving-position vehicles such as the Lamborghini LM002. Today, however, the Scorpion range includes not just SUV tyres but also on road enduro and motocross motorcycle tyres, as well as off-road applications for bicycles.
This new third generation of Scorpion tyre stands out though for its excellent performance in both dry and wet conditions. It has been certified by the independent TÜV institute, which awarded it the Premium Quality Mark, and the tyre has been ranked first in dry braking tests as well as obtaining first place in wet handling. It has also positioned itself at the top of the list for wet braking and straight-line aquaplaning.
The Scorpion range was designated Class A in European tyre labelling for wet grip when originally launched. The tyre also provides acoustic comfort (Classes A/B) and high mileage performance, as well as Class B for rolling resistance. All in all, the tyre gives consistent performance in both dry and wet conditions over a wide range of summer temperatures.
Developed in collaboration with leading car manufacturers specifically for the SUV segment, the new Scorpion used dedicated technical solutions which includes a reinforced carcass, wider central tread blocks and an optimised profile to give the tyre uniform pressure distribution and reduce deformation in the shoulder area.
The tyre has also been constructed using some of the innovative materials that contributed to the success of the latest generation of Cinturato, Pirelli’s summer tyre for saloons and CUVs which gives a really good balance between safety and efficiency while avoiding typical trade-offs such as between durability and rolling resistance.
It is more challenging to develop a tyre specifically for SUVs and requires dedicated design to meet the characteristics of these vehicles, such as their greater weight and higher centre of gravity. So, improvements to the new Scorpion are as a result of an integrated design approach, leveraging a new tread compound that ensures stable performance in different conditions combined with improved wet grip and excellent mileage.
The reinforced structure of the tyre and updated compound also ensure uniform wear, making it ideal for heavier vehicles. The profile and tread pattern with its new groove geometry have been optimised for SUVs to improve not only handling but also acoustic comfort, achieving Class A/B in European noise labelling.
Available in 16 sizes from 18 to 22 inches, the new Scorpion also features technologies such as Elect, which helps to increase the range of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles by up to 10 per cent, adopting solutions specifically designed for the characteristics of these heavier powertrains.
For more information on the third generation of the Scorpion tyre for SUVs, please visit: www.pirelli.com.
Author Bio:
Simon Burrell is a UK-based motoring and travel journalist and editor, a member of the Guild of Motoring Writers and former saloon car racing driver.
Photographs courtesy of Pirelli
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