Pirelli has begun developing its tire range for the 2021 World Rally Championship, where the Italian firm will be sole supplier. The first tire to form part of the 2021 WRC range was introduced at the 2020 GP Ice Race.
The Sweden-specification studded Sottozero Ice J1 tire, in 205/65 R15 size, will be used by the top tier World Rally Cars from next season. Equipped with 7mm studs, the tires feature a tread pattern characterized by robust blocks and tungsten-tipped studs.
The ‘Sweden’ Sottozero Ice makes full use of Pirelli’s proprietary technologies: for this tire, the studs are incorporated into the tire during the vulcanization process, rather than being inserted afterwards. This technology is used only by Pirelli and favors stud retention, which helps to maximize performance in competition.
Terenzio Testoni, head of rally and off-road activities at Pirelli, said: “The icy track provides a spectacular arena for cars from different eras to compete against each other, with Pirelli tires designed specifically for these conditions helping to make the action even more thrilling.”
