Pirelli presented its new 2017 Formula 1 tires in Monte Carlo. The new specification is a significant technical change, which has also had an effect on the balance and aesthetics of the cars that will compete next year.
In 2017 there will be new technical rules that include a significant increase in aerodynamic downforce. To fulfil the objectives of improving lap times, in combination with the latest aerodynamic modifications, the decision has been taken to have wider tyres and therefore a wider track.
The front tyre, which is currently 245mm wide, will increase to 305mm. The rear tyre will grow from 325mm to 405mm. So the new sizes for slick tyres will be 305/670-13 at the front and 405/670-13 at the rear (the total diameter will go from the current 660mm to 670mm). Wheel rim diameter remains unchanged at 13 inches.
The new tyres are more than 60mm wider at the front and more than 80mm wider at the back. Consequently, the 2017 tyre increases in width by 25% compared to the current size. This is the case for all three types: slicks, intermediates and full wet.
Pirelli put forward the need to modify the sporting regulations regarding tyre testing to the teams and the FIA. The resulting modification now means that the following tyre tests can take place this year. A total of 25 days of testing with modified cars, using prototype tyres in 2017 size are scheduled from early August 2017.
