The Michelin Pilot Alpin PA5 non-studded winter tire, like the previous generation model, is adapted for use in the specific conditions of so-called "European" winters, characterized by frequent thaws and air temperatures just below 0 degrees Celsius. Compared to its predecessor, this model differs even at the conceptual level, which has made it possible to significantly improve the main operational properties.
Symmetric directional tread pattern
One of the innovations is the symmetric directional tread pattern. It turned out that the classic V-shaped design is more efficient on wet and snowy surfaces. Its key difference is the significantly increased number of tread blocks, which provide a contact patch with a much larger number of gripping edges.
Curved tread profile
Another important change is the shape of the tread profile. It is curved, which provides a closer fit of the tire to the road surface and, as a result, increases the size of the contact patch. This significantly improves the traction properties on dry pavement.
Several types of lamellas
The tire tread is equipped with several types of lamellas. Two solid longitudinal ribs in the center contain straight slots. These elements improve the longitudinal traction properties. All tread blocks have Z-shaped lamellas. The special structure of their walls provides them with fixation in the open position when contacting the road and, at the same time, the ability to limit block mobility. This significantly improves the traction properties on ice while maintaining the speed and accuracy of steering. Additionally, the blocks contain droplet-shaped slots. They dry the contact patch by capturing and holding moisture from the road surface, which improves traction on wet pavement.
Special compound
The tire tread is made of a compound whose physico-chemical properties are selected taking into account the design features of powerful passenger cars and the climatic conditions of European countries in winter. The rubber mixture contains a complex of silicon-containing components, as well as polymers. They provide the uniformity of the compound at the molecular level, increasing its strength, elasticity at negative temperatures of the external environment.
Main features of Michelin Pilot Alpin PA5
- V-shaped tread design provides better traction on wet and snowy surfaces;
- the curved shape of the tread increases the size of the contact patch, the force of the tire's adhesion to the road;
- several types of lamellas provide reliability to the traction properties on ice;
- special compound provides excellent handling in any road conditions.
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