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Porsche and Michelin Unveil High-Performance Tyres for Wet Track Conditions
Porsche and Michelin have once again joined forces to develop an innovative tyre that enhances track performance in wet and low-temperature conditions. The new Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 is designed to extend the track-day season by providing superior grip and safety, especially for the 992-generation Porsche 911 GT3 RS. This road-legal track tyre is engineered to maintain high-performance levels even in challenging weather conditions, making it a game-changer for driving enthusiasts who demand year-round precision and control.
Porsche’s Commitment to Performance and Safety
As with all Porsche models, meticulous attention is given to the fine-tuning of components to ensure an unparalleled driving experience. Since tyres are the only point of contact between the car and the road, Porsche has dedicated decades to collaborating with leading tyre manufacturers to produce highly specialized options. The Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 bears the ‘N’ marking, signifying its exclusive development for Porsche vehicles, and complements the existing ultra-high-performance (UHP) Pilot Sport Cup 2 R. This new tyre introduces a completely unique segment aimed at maximizing grip and precision in damp and cool conditions.
Extending the Track-Day Season
Performance-focused Porsche enthusiasts have long sought ways to maximize their time on the track. With the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5, drivers can confidently push their limits in wet and cold conditions, extending their track-day season into spring and autumn. According to Andreas Preuninger, Director GT Vehicles at Porsche, “The new tyres significantly increase the annual usage period of the GT3 RS.”
This tyre was specifically developed to handle circuits that become particularly demanding due to inclement weather. Extensive testing conducted since 2022 at the Michelin Development Centre in Ladoux, France, has confirmed its ability to offer exceptional performance in wet conditions. Porsche Brand Ambassador Jörg Bergmeister played a key role in the fine-tuning process, ensuring that the tyre delivers superior aquaplaning resistance, stability, and grip.
Advanced Technology for Unmatched Grip
A major highlight of the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 is its optimized tread pattern, designed for enhanced aquaplaning resistance. The tyre features four large central grooves with a depth of 7.4 millimeters, allowing for efficient water displacement. This design ensures greater stability and increases the threshold at which the tyre begins to lose contact with the road.
Additionally, the tyre incorporates a high proportion of silica in its rubber compound, enabling it to heat up faster and provide optimal grip even at ambient temperatures between 5°C and 15°C. Unlike standard UHP tyres that perform best in warm conditions (15°C to 30°C), the Pilot Sport S 5 maintains a high level of control and predictability in cooler weather. According to Bergmeister, “The Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 gets up to temperature very quickly. In wet conditions and low ambient temperatures, it offers outstanding levels of control and predictability when changing direction.”
Proven Performance on the Track
Testing at the Michelin Development Centre’s 2.8-kilometer ‘3bis’ circuit demonstrated the tyre’s remarkable performance in wet conditions. Michelin test drivers recorded lap times that were over 10 seconds faster with the Pilot Sport S 5 compared to the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 N0 tyres. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of the tyre’s improved carcass composition and optimized contact patch, providing enhanced feedback and confidence to drivers.
Versatility in Warm and Dry Conditions
While the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 excels in wet conditions, it is also designed to perform well in dry weather at higher temperatures. Rigorous testing at the Nürburgring and Portimão circuits has ensured that the tyre maintains its superior handling characteristics, even when ambient temperatures exceed 20°C. By balancing various tread designs, Porsche and Michelin have created a tyre that offers exceptional performance across a range of conditions, further enhancing the capabilities of the 911 GT3 RS.
The Best Porsche Experience in Dubai
For Porsche enthusiasts in Dubai, the introduction of the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 offers an exciting opportunity to enjoy unparalleled performance in diverse weather conditions. Whether tackling a wet circuit or navigating the cooler months, this tyre ensures optimal grip, stability, and lap-time improvements. If you’re looking to buy a used Porsche 911 GT3 RS or any other premium model, Auto Trader UAE provides a wide selection of high-quality used cars in Dubai. Visit www.autotraders.ae to explore the best deals on Porsche models and experience the pinnacle of German engineering with the latest advancements in tyre technology.
