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Porsche Carrera GT Enhances Performance With New Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 Tires
Porsche, in partnership with Michelin, has introduced a new tire for the Carrera GT. This super sports car, produced between 2003 and 2006 with 1,270 units made, now boasts enhanced precision and performance. Nearly two decades after its production ended, Porsche unveils this ultra-high-performance tire. The tire's rubber compound and construction have been optimized using advanced technology to improve performance on both wet and dry surfaces.
The Carrera GT was among the fastest production cars when it launched in 2003. Its V10 engine, initially designed for the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, was expanded from 5.5 to 5.7 liters for this model. It delivers 605 hp (450 kW) and 435 lb.-ft. of torque, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 205 mph.
The newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires replace the previous Pilot Super Sport tires introduced in 2013. These new tires carry the N-designation, which is exclusive to tires specifically developed for Porsche vehicles. The initial configuration is marked by an N0 designation.
Porsche development driver Joerg Bergmeister tested the Carrera GT with these new tires. He remarked, "The Carrera GT is an absolute dream car. This is why I’m particularly excited that the new tire raises the performance of this legend to a new level." His involvement in the development process highlights the importance of these improvements.
Developing new tires for a vehicle that's nearly two decades old is uncommon but underscores the Carrera GT's significance to Porsche and its customers today. The development aimed to enhance driving dynamics on both dry and wet roads using Dual-Compound-Technology with two different rubber compounds in the tread.
Michelin engineer Mathieu Greco explained that silica is used on the inner shoulder and tread blocks for optimal wet grip characteristics, while industrial soot enhances dry grip on the outer shoulder and tread blocks.
Testing at Nürburgring-Nordschleife
Performance tests conducted at Nürburgring-Nordschleife helped refine the tire surface further. Bergmeister noted that "the improvements that engineers were able to achieve in terms of feedback during spirited driving are impressive." He added that drivers can clearly sense when traction begins to slip.
The updated tires significantly enhance driving dynamics and enable quicker lap times compared to their predecessors. Bergmeister stated that "the new tires do not just make the Carrera GT faster; they also make it easier for the driver to pilot the car in a spirited manner."
Improved Braking Capabilities
The Pilot Sport Cup 2 also offers potential reductions in braking distances. From 62 mph, stopping distance can be reduced by up to eight feet, while from 124 mph, it can be shortened by up to 39 feet. Bergmeister emphasized that "tires specifically developed for a vehicle are always an advantage," highlighting their impact on both performance and stopping ability.
The new Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires are now available at Porsche Centers worldwide.
Porsche Cars North America Overview
Porsche Cars North America (PCNA), established in 1984, serves as the exclusive U.S. importer of various Porsche models including the Porsche 911, Macan, Cayenne, Panamera, Taycan, and more. Headquartered in Atlanta since 1998, PCNA features a Porsche Experience Center with driver development tracks and business facilities.
A second Experience Center near Los Angeles includes educational modules totaling over four miles of track along with business amenities. PCNA supports over 200 independently owned dealerships across the U.S., ensuring top-notch service aligned with Porsche's legacy of innovation in vehicle performance and safety.
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