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Porsche And Michelin Launch New Pilot Sport S 5 Wet Weather Tire For Enhanced Performance On The 911 GT3 RS
Porsche and Michelin have introduced a new tire for the 911 GT3 RS, designed to enhance performance in wet and cooler conditions. This development aims to extend the track-day season for drivers in climates where weather might otherwise limit driving opportunities. The Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 is an optional tire that broadens the range of suitable weather conditions for this model.
The new tire, developed jointly by Porsche and Michelin, is tailored for use in wet and cooler environments. It offers improved handling and longer tread life compared to previous tires for the 911 GT3 RS. The Pilot Sport S 5 is particularly effective in wet weather, providing exceptional grip and precision not achievable with other ultra-high-performance tires designed for warmer conditions.
The development of the Pilot Sport S 5 began in 2022 at Michelin's Development Center in Ladoux, France. Extensive testing was conducted to optimize its wet handling characteristics. The tread pattern features four large central grooves with a depth of 7.4 millimetres, enhancing water evacuation. A high silica content in the rubber compound improves grip on wet surfaces and helps the tire reach operating temperature quickly.
Versatility Across Weather Conditions
In regions with temperate climates, spring and fall can bring varied conditions. Testing at Nürburgring and Portimão ensured the tire performs well even outside its core operating window. It maintains high performance on dry roads in warm temperatures while meeting track day enthusiasts' needs for precision, handling, and stability.
Market Availability
Initially available for the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 comes in sizes 275/35 ZR 20 for the front axle and 335/30 ZR 21 for the rear. These tires will be sold exclusively through U.S. Porsche Centers as part of their tire support program. Details regarding availability timing and pricing will be announced later.
The new tire also boasts high wear resistance, ensuring long-lasting performance enjoyment. Its design allows it to communicate grip effectively during demanding driving situations, inspiring driver confidence even under challenging conditions.
Andreas Preuninger, Director GT Vehicles at Porsche, stated: "We are responding to demand from our particularly performance-focused customers who have expressed a desire to spend more time on track during spring and fall." He added that these tires significantly increase the annual operating window of the 911 GT3 RS.
Jörg Bergmeister, Porsche Brand Ambassador, noted: "The Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 gets up to temperature very quickly." He highlighted its outstanding control and predictability when changing direction under wet conditions and low ambient temperatures.
The collaboration between Porsche and Michelin underscores their commitment to delivering tailored solutions that enhance vehicle performance across various conditions. This partnership continues a tradition of developing specialized tires that meet specific needs of Porsche vehicles.
Porsche Cars North America (PCNA), established in 1984, serves as the exclusive U.S. importer of several Porsche models including the iconic 911 series. Headquartered in Atlanta since 1998, PCNA supports over 200 independently owned dealerships across the U.S., ensuring customers receive top-notch service aligned with Porsche's legacy of vehicle excellence.
PCNA operates two Porsche Experience Centers in North America—one in Atlanta featuring two driver development tracks—and another near Los Angeles with an extensive track layout offering diverse educational modules. These centers provide unique opportunities for enthusiasts to engage with Porsche's rich motorsport heritage firsthand.
Porsche's proud racing history includes over 30,000 motorsport victories worldwide—a testament to its leadership within automotive innovation focused on advancing vehicle performance standards globally while maintaining safety efficiency benchmarks throughout its illustrious journey spanning more than seven decades now!
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