The 2011 World Rally Championship marks the beginning of a major new period in the history for tyre giant Michelin. Michelin has returned to rallying’s premier series in a bid to extend its already impressive record in the discipline.
This return stems from the introduction of regulations which are coherent with values that are particularly important to the Michelin Group. Indeed, Michelin is always keen to be involved in motorsport so long as the regulations permit open competition between tire companies. In addition to enhancing the quality of the show, it is precisely this sort of competitive rivalry that enables technologies of the future to be developed. Michelin is also an active supporter of keeping costs low, notably by reducing the number of tires necessary for each event.
Michelin’s longstanding commitment to rallying, as well as to circuit racing, dates back to motorsport’s pioneering days. The life-size test bench these disciplines provide us with gives us a chance to validate advanced innovations in extreme conditions before they find their way onto our road tires. Motorsport consequently plays a valuable role in ensuring a balanced overall performance package for Michelin’s production tires and also contributes to a respectful approach to the environment. Today, motorsport effectively serves as a powerful stimulant for Michelin in its determination to rise to the challenges of the 21st Century.
Last but not least, Michelin seeks to profit from its involvement in the WRC to showcase its technological knowhow, just as it has done in other major motorsport championships and events for more than a century.
