This month, Aston Martin announced its plans to launch the exclusive Rapide E electric sedan, which will be produced in very limited numbers. Following this revelation, tire manufacturer Pirelli unveiled a new range of P Zero tires specifically designed for the new Aston Martin. Key features of these specialized tires include low rolling resistance to maximize the vehicle’s battery range and a noise-cancelling system to maintain a tranquil environment inside the driver’s cabin.
Pirelli has specified that the Rapide E will be fitted with 245-millimeter wide tires at the front and 295-millimeter tires at the rear. This staggered tire width is typical for high-performance rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Notably, each set of tires will serve distinct purposes: the wider rear tires are crafted for optimal traction and road feedback, while the front tires focus on efficiency and grip, particularly in wet conditions. Aston Martin aims for the Rapide E to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under four seconds and to achieve a range exceeding 200 miles on a single charge.
All four P Zero tires will incorporate Pirelli’s noise-cancelling technology, which was initially developed in 2013 for the Audi RS6. This innovative system is designed to minimize the noise transmitted from the tires to the interior of the car. According to Pirelli, regular tires produce vibrations as they compress on various surfaces, which can travel into the vehicle through the suspension and steering components.
Pirelli explains that the noise-cancelling system consists of a polyurethane device installed inside the tire. This mechanism helps absorb vibrations, limiting how much noise reaches the inside of the vehicle. The Pirelli Noise Cancelling System can reduce noise levels by 2 to 3 decibels, effectively halving the overall noise experienced within the cabin.
While this noise-cancelling technology was originally intended for internal combustion engine vehicles, it may prove even more beneficial for electric vehicles like the Aston Martin Rapide E. Since electric motors are inherently quieter than traditional engines, tire noise often becomes the loudest aspect of an EV. Incorporating quieter tires is a natural progression as luxury hybrid and electric cars continue to gain popularity..
