Michelin Pilot Sport Cup + OE Approval for BMW M3 Extended

The recently introduced Michelin Pilot Sport Cup + has been approved as original equipment on the latest version of the BMW M3, launched in the second half of 2007. Already OE for the coupe version of the M3, the Pilot Sport Cup + is the French tyremaker’s top-of-the-line sports tyre. Developed for high speed track racing, it also meets all the requirements of public highway driving, as evidenced by the “DOT” marking on the sidewall.

The technology ensconced within the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup + enables the tyre to handle extreme track conditions while delivering optimal grip for safe everyday driving. To achieve this dual objective, Michelin implemented a two-compound design. Because wet-road driving makes considerable demands on the inside shoulder, silica has been included in this section of the tread, thus guaranteeing superior traction on slippery surfaces. Inversely, carbon black is used on the outer shoulder for maximum grip on dry surfaces. These two different blends, each of which is adapted to a specific type of use, are rarely seen together on the same tyre. Michelin claims that its ability to combine technologies that are normally incompatible is what makes the Pilot Sport Cup + a truly innovative product.

Michelin worked in close cooperation with BMW M GmbH to develop a tyre that would meet the standards of the new M3. Equipped with 19-inch wheels, the car can leverage the performance features of the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup + to reach its full potential. The fitments specified as OE for the M3 are as follows:

Front : 245/35 ZR19 (93Y) XL Pilot Sport Cup +
Rear : 265/35 ZR19 (98Y) XL Pilot Sport Cup +