International. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Pirelli P Zero, a tyre that has made its mark on the automotive industry since its launch in 1985.
Throughout its four generations, this model has been part of more than 3,000 specific approvals for various vehicles.
The P Zero has been present in some of the most iconic cars in history, such as the Ferrari F40, Lamborghini Countach, McLaren P1 and Pagani Zonda, among others. Its development has been linked to the evolution of sports cars since the 1980s, when the rise of turbo engines and superchargers generated the need for tires capable of handling unprecedented levels of power.
The model debuted in 1985 with the Lancia Delta S4 Stradale, inspired by the rally version of Group B. This tyre marked the start of a new category, Ultra High Performance (UHP), thanks to an innovative design that balanced grip on dry and wet surfaces.
Over the years, the P Zero has not only excelled on the roads, but also in motorsport, from Formula 1 to rally competitions. An emblematic episode occurred at the San Remo Rally, where driver Miki Biasion used P Zero tyres on a wet stage, achieving a victory against competitors on specialist tyres.
In addition, the P Zero has been a benchmark in technological innovation. In 2019, Pirelli introduced a version adapted for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, and in 2023 it launched the P Zero E, a tyre made from at least 55% recycled or bio-based materials, the first of its kind to obtain a "triple A" rating on the European label.
With the launch of the fifth generation of the P Zero scheduled for the coming months, Pirelli continues its commitment to innovation in the high-performance tyre segment, consolidating its relationship with premium and luxury car manufacturers.
