Pirelli&COTA

The Circuit of the Americas was on of only two circuits (Hockenhein in Germany be-ing the second) on the 2012 calendar that Pirelli was not familiar with since enter-ing F1 in 2011 as the sole tyre supplier. It was a difficult task for the Italian manufac-turer to fully grasp the brand new track; un-derstanding the nature of a new surface is always complicated.

by Jay Eff

F1 Traveler Magazine | March 2013

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Pirelli conducted extensive testing at the circuit by using sophisticated laser measuring equipment in order to as-sess the abrasiveness of the circuit by examining closely the spacing and shape of the stones that make up the ag-gregate. Several readings were taken from the machine, in order to ensure an accurate representation

The complex testing, as well as some asphalt samples from the new venue, allowed Pirelli to calculate the likely wear rate and the effect of the asphalt and ambient tem-peratures on the tyres at different points on the circuit.

Following the tests, Pirelli decided to opt for the P Zero Silver hard and P Zero White medium tyres: a reasonably conservative compound choice for a circuit where there are still a number of unknown factors when it comes to tyre performance.

The fast and challenging 5.515-kilometre track features varying elevations that alternate slower and more techni-cal sections with other areas that are very quick.

The opening sector of the lap is particularly demanding, with a uniquely profiled hairpin turn one and then a rapid sequence of direction changes from turns four through six: reminiscent of Silverstone or Spa. This puts a lot of energy through the tyre structure, particularly the outside tyre that has to withstand the majority of the cornering forces. Trac-tion is also a vital aspect of tyre performance in America in order to find optimal grip coming out of the slower corners.

KEY POINTSTurn 11 is particularly demanding in Texas as the drivers start to brake heavily with the car already turning, creat-ing an uneven distribution of forces across the tyres. Good grip from the compound is essential for an effective turn-in.

The cars are likely to run with low gearing and medium downforce, with the set-up expected to be similar to that of Istanbul Park in Turkey.

America is a key market for Pirelli, where the full range of P Zero tyres is sold for Ultra High Performance vehicles, as well as a unique P4, P6 and Cinturato P7 ‘Four Seasons’ range for year-round motoring. Pirelli also sells its com-plete line-up of premium winter tyres in the United States: Winter Sottozero, Winter Carving and Winter Snowcontrol.

Pirelli’s American headquarters is located in Rome, Geor-gia – which also houses a Research and Development facility along with a factory that uses the patented MIRS (Modular Integrated Robotised System) process. However, 90% of Pirelli tyres sold in the United States are actually made in Latin America.

The Georgia plant produces approximately 400,000 tyres per year. By 2015, Pirelli’s total production in the American continent is expected to rise to 3.9 million tyres. The tyre market in America is growing by an average 2.1% per year.

Click or scan to view a video of Pirelli and Cota.

photos and video courtesy Pirelli