The Lexus LC500 luxury sports coupe wore Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP tires at its world debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
For the first time, Michelin North America Inc. engineers deployed a new hybrid sidewall technology that allows the tire to maintain its run-flat capabilities and superior handling performance while also reducing the tire's overall mass and rolling resistance.
Available on the all-new Lexus LC500 model, Michelin says the specially tuned Pilot Super Sport ZP tires were designed to contribute significantly to handling and performance. During an intensive development period, the project included more than 1,200 prototype tires and countless hours of testing at Michelin facilities in Greenville, S.C., and Ladoux, France, as well as the Higashifuji proving ground and the Japanese Automobile Research Institute in Shirosato, Japan.
"Michelin's global development team worked very closely with the Lexus team to develop a Pilot Super Sport that helps meet the high performance and safety needs of the Lexus LC500," says Thom Roach, vice president of original equipment marketing for Michelin North America. "Owners will enjoy the peace of mind that Michelin run-flat technology offers without giving up the quiet cabin and comfortable ride that Lexus owners value."
Exclusively for the North American International Auto Show, Michelin designed a concept version of the Pilot Super Sport featuring its Premium Touch technology on the sidewall of the tire. The special tire incorporates elements from Lexus' brand design language to enhance the beauty of the LC500 when on display. Premium Touch uses a proprietary mold-engraving technology to produce superior aesthetic contrast and premium velvet texture.
For more information, visit www.michelinman.com.
