Pirelli Tests New 18-Inch Wheels

Pirelli Tests New 18-Inch Wheels

Although it is well known that Michelin is fond of introducing 18-inch wheels,. Hence, onto the F1 racing scene. So, Pirelli was the first tyre company to make and introduce its brand new 18-inch F1 tyres . Originally, the  18-inch wheel and tyre units were only used on normal passenger cars.

Pirelli’s Big Gamble: Pirelli Tests New 18-Inch Wheels

The Ups and Downs of 18-Inch Tyres in Formula One

Hello there, fellow motorsport aficionados! Today, let’s talk about a big topic in the F1 world: Pirelli’s switch to 18-inch tyres. Now, I know we’re used to dealing with tyres for our run-arounds here in the UK, but this adjustment in F1 is worth discussing.

First, let’s set the scenario.

Pirelli, the Italian tyre company, has been like a mad scientist in Formula One, constantly adjusting and experimenting. In 2021, they opted to upgrade from regular 13-inch tyres to larger 18-inch versions.

This was more than just a pretty new design; the goal was to increase performance and safety. However, as with any major shift, there has been a mixture of applause and jeers.

The Good Bits: Pirelli Tests New 18-Inch Wheels

Looks: Let’s be honest, these tyres look great. They offer the cars a more aggressive, modern look, which is appealing to fans.

Technology: These larger tyres are designed to be more durable, requiring fewer pit stops for tyre replacements. It’s similar to moving from a reliable vintage Ford to a sleek Audi: better efficiency, less hassle.

Performance: Larger tyres provide a larger contact patch with the track, resulting in increased grip and potentially faster lap times. It’s like having a pair of high-performance trainers for a sprint; you feel steadier and faster.

The not-so-good bits: Pirelli Tests New 18-Inch Wheels

Teething issues: As with any new technology, there have been problems. Drivers have complained that the tyres are tougher to get within the appropriate temperature range. It’s like trying to make a nice cup of tea but the water isn’t hot enough–frustrating!

Drivers have had to adjust their driving methods to accommodate these new tyres. For some, the shift has been easy, but for others, it’s been difficult, similar to learning to drive on the left after years of driving on the right.

Cost and Development: The transition to 18-inch tyres required teams to completely restructure their vehicles, which was not inexpensive. It’s similar to having to stock your garage with new tools for a new type of car: necessary yet expensive.

So, what is the verdict?

It’s a bit of a mixed bag, honestly. On the one hand, 18-inch tyres have introduced some interesting innovations to F1, making the vehicles appear cooler and maybe enhancing performance.

However, the adjustment has not been as easy as driving through the Yorkshire Dales. Teams and drivers have expressed dissatisfaction, and it’s evident that there is still potential for development.

Conclusion: Pirelli Tests New 18-Inch Wheels

Change is often difficult in the world of Formula One, just as it is in our Halifax garages. Pirelli’s decision to switch to 18-inch tyres was a bold one, with both successes and losses.

However, just as we adjust to new models and technology in our garages, F1 is also adapting. It’s all about trial and error to discover the sweet spot. So, let’s keep a watch out and see how this tyre story evolves. Who knows, it might even revamp the track!

Pirelli Tests New 18-Inch Wheels

combined with Lotus to  fit the 18 inch wheels and tyres on to the Team’s E22 Chassis and the new tyres were tested  on the Silverstone race track.

The Lotus car was driven by Charles Pick, who completed 14 laps in 1 minute 44.728 seconds. This easily beat the previous record and was nine seconds better than the time that was set by Jules Bianchi on the same track on a  Ferrari which was kitted out with with regular F1 tyres.

Watch out for further tyre developments with compounds and different tyre sizes?

The fact that Pirelli tests new 18-inch wheels, in my opinion is a step nearer them being used in further trials and on testing, before the new F1 season begins.

Pirelli tyres are the preferred tyre supplier to F1 at the moment, but it is no secret that Michelin tyres are taking interest in a bid not far into the future. Michelin though are well known to want to use 18 inch tyres.

They would also like to leave

the choice of tyres on any particular race day to the drivers and teams. This opinion is popular with some drivers but not so popular with others.

Some drivers would prefer to stick to the 13 inch tyres that are currently in use. Others are looking forward to trying out the 18 inch tyres. Only time will tell?

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Sourced through Scoop.it from: www.tyreblog.co.uk