BMW’s new M features 20-inch wheels wrapped in P Zero tires.
Pirelli, an Italian tire manufacturer, seems to be making a habit out of creating bespoke tires for road vehicles as more automakers ask for custom-made sets from Formula 1. The new P Zero rubber for the BMW M5 features a special compound that contains polymers originally designed for motorsport’s crown jewel.
Pirelli claims that the midsize sedan will deliver a high level of grip and performance in wet conditions, regardless of whether it is in xDrive or pure RWD modes. According to the company, one of their priorities was to balance the front axle and rear axles. The solution was to use different layers in the front and back tire carcasses. Meanwhile, the contours of P Zero tires were modified to match perfectly the wheel rim.
The M5’s latest model rides on 20-inch alloy wheels at both axles. These are complemented by 285/35 ZR20 (105Y) XL tires and 275/35ZR 20 (102Y). Pirelli and BMW worked together to develop and test these tires. They are based upon the spring 2017 version of the P Zero. These tires have been modified to be “perfectly compatible with the features and chassis of this model,” according to both companies.
Pirelli has teamed up with another manufacturer to produce the winter tires, which were specifically designed for McLaren’s Sports Series, which includes the following models: 570S Coupe (540C), 570S Spider (570S Spider), and the 570GT. Pirelli is also offering a bespoke service for models that are less expensive, like the Hyundai i30N riding on exclusive UHP summer tires. It’s decorated with the “HN” logo on the sidewall.