Pirelli’s Trofeo Track Tire Turned the Ford Mustang Dark Horse Into a Thrill Ride

In a sport like F1, where hundredths of seconds can be the difference between victory and loss, tires are crucial. Pirelli uses advanced simulations and virtual development to cut down on physical prototypes and make the process more efficient. When vehicle testing manager Kurt Niebuhr had the chance to visit Pirelli’s headquarters in Italy earlier this year, he got to see the simulation rig that’s key to the tire-maker’s development process. Manufacturers can send their newest and most secret products in encrypted files for Pirelli to use during tire development, and the whole process significantly cuts down on cost, raw materials and emissions. Mario Isola, the head of Pirelli’s F1 division, reiterated this at COTA, saying the company specifically focuses on quality aligned with sustainability.

The Trofeo Track tire is the direct result of Pirelli’s F1 learnings, and they’ll soon be available in sizes ranging from 17 inches to 21 inches, sold exclusively in the United States. Based on my experience at COTA, I’m hoping we buy a set for Edmunds’ own Mustang Dark Horse.