Michelin’s Lee Willard, Jeff Anderson, and Eric Schmedding made a virtual presence at the 2021 BASH for a very informative Q & A session. To start out, Willard begins discussing the Fundamental Vehicle Dynamics of the Mid-Engine Corvette. These vehicles have weight closer to the center and rear which makes the car equilibrium more neutral. The weight distribution also helps to optimize load transfer for braking, combined braking, acceleration, and steering. Michelin has 2 tires on the C8 Corvettes, the Pilot Sport All-Season 4 ZP and the Pilot Sport 4 ZP. The Pilot Sport All-Season 4 ZP tires have maximum grip year-round with a unique multi-compound tread design. Willard said they are “great for sustainability and fuel economy.” The Pilot Sport 4 ZP tires have a 12% rolling resistance that allows more efficient power utilization. By using three new advanced tread compounds, these tires have a great maximum wet and dry grip ability.
Michelin then went on to introduce their new Pilot Sport All Season 4 tire. These new tires are an awesome fit for drivers looking for ultimate wet and dry performance, even in cold temperatures. Schmedding said that consumers would be able to use these tires in all temperatures including light snow. These new tires will replace the former Pilot Sport A/S 3+ tires. These new tires have many consumer benefits. They are the longest-lasting Ultra-High Performance all-season tire among leading competitors. Michelin shares that consumers can elevate their potential in all seasons with 4% better dry braking, 5% better-wet braking, and 10 % more snow traction than the Pilot Sport A/S 3+ tires that they are replacing. At the end of Michelin’s presentation, they spent time using their expertise to answer tire-related questions from virtual and in-person BASH 2021 attendees. The full seminar is available on the members-only section of the website.
