Pirelli has launched the latest evolution of its summer tire dedicated to SUVs, the Scorpion, designed to deliver safety, driving comfort and long-lasting performance. First launched in 1986 specifically for high-driving-position vehicles and originally fitted to the Lamborghini LM002, the Scorpion brand now ranges from SUV tires to on-road enduro and motocross motorcycle tires, as well as off-road applications in the bicycle sector.
Safety, comfort and mileage
The Scorpion was engineered for high performance in both dry and wet conditions and has been certified by the independent TÜV institute with the Premium Quality Mark. The tire ranked first in dry braking tests, took first place in wet handling and performed at the top in wet braking and straight-line aquaplaning.
At launch, the entire Scorpion range received a Class A rating for wet grip under European tire labeling, while offering acoustic comfort (Classes A/B) and high mileage performance. It also holds a Class B rating for rolling resistance and delivers consistent performance in both dry and wet conditions across the full range of summer temperatures.
Developing the Scorpion
Developing a product for the SUV segment requires a dedicated design to accommodate the unique characteristics of these vehicles, including greater weight and a higher center of gravity.
The Scorpion’s improvements stem from an integrated design approach, featuring a new tread compound that delivers stable performance in varying conditions, enhanced wet grip and excellent mileage, tailored to today’s SUVs. Its reinforced structure and updated compound ensure uniform wear, making the tire suitable for heavier vehicles. The profile and tread pattern, with new groove geometry optimized for SUVs, enhance handling and acoustic comfort, achieving Class A/B in European noise labeling.
Virtual development methods
For the Scorpion’s development, Pirelli’s R&D team employed virtual development processes. Using mileage-prediction tools created by engineers in Milan, more than 20 technological variants – combining different compounds and tread patterns – were evaluated virtually to identify the best approach for increasing mileage. Virtual testing, supported by driving simulators, also enabled optimization of handling, dry performance and driving experience. Subsequent physical tests confirmed improvements over the previous generation.
Third-generation Scorpion
The Scorpion range was developed specifically for the SUV segment, featuring dedicated technical solutions such as a reinforced carcass, wider central tread blocks and an optimized profile to ensure uniform pressure distribution and reduce shoulder deformation.
The Scorpion also incorporates innovative materials used in Pirelli’s latest Cinturato summer tires for saloons and CUVs. These materials helped the Cinturato achieve top rankings in the Tyre Reviews comparative test at its debut, demonstrating a strong balance between safety and efficiency while avoiding typical trade-offs, such as between durability and rolling resistance.
Available in 16 sizes from 18in to 22in, the Scorpion also features technologies such as Elect, which can increase the range of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles by up to 10%, and adopts solutions specifically designed for the characteristics of these powertrains.
In related news, Avon reintroduces Cobra Chrome whitewall tires after full redevelopment
