BMW iX electric SUV to roll on Pirelli P Zero Elect tyres

Italian tyre manufacturer’s Elect technology designed to enhance electric car characteristics

The new BMW iX will roll off production lines on Pirelli P Zero Elect tyres. The electric SUV’s xDrive50 version will run on the 255/50R21 109Y XL and 275/40R22 107Y XL sizes, with the latter size also available for the sportier M60 model. Pirelli will mark these tyres with a star on the sidewall, indicating that they have been developed specially for BMW as part of its ‘perfect fit’ philosophy. Pirelli will also supply to BMW a special, grippy 22-inch tyre designed for maximum performance. This tyre has an “I” on the side, in addition to the star marking.

Pirelli is targeting original equipment fitments for the latest generation of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Its Elect technology package offers reduced road noise, immediate grip to handle EV’s inherent torque advantage, an increased range thanks to reduced rolling resistance, and safety features. The BMW iX development partnership underlines Pirelli’s commitment to design specific tyres for electrified cars, BEVs or plug-in hybrids. These products are created from the beginning to enhance the individual characteristics of electric cars, as denoted by the ‘Elect’ marking on the sidewall of the tyre itself.

The Pirelli P Zero Elect tyres developed for the BMW iX focus on low rolling resistance, to allow the car to travel for more kilometres after a charge. They have an ‘A’ rating on the European tyre label to certify this feature, allowing the driver to take full advantage of all the car’s performance.

The specific profile of the tyre also influences the mileage, thanks to its superior aerodynamics compared to the standard P Zero, Pirelli adds. The external profile has been modified to ensure that the tyre protrudes less, reducing aerodynamic turbulence while improving overall efficiency, without sacrificing adequate rim protection. The ‘sunk’ lettering on the side of the tyre is just as distinctive, hollowed into the sidewall rather than standing out in relief.

Particular attention is paid to comfort for BMW iX drivers, with the dedicated Pirelli P Zero Elect tyres also equipped with PNCS (Pirelli Noise Cancelling System) technology, which reduces road noise. PNCS technology consists of a specific sound-absorbing material placed inside the tyre, which dampens the acoustic vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted into the car, with a consequent reduction in road noise. The tyre structure has also been optimised to cope with the considerable weight of this 100 per cent electric zero-emission vehicle, ensuring optimal levels of driving safety in all traffic conditions.

BMW iX, the manufacturer’s new all-electric SUV (Photo: Pirelli)