Michelin Develops Michelin Filot Sports Cup 2 RK1 For Ferrari F80
Jul 17, 2025
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Breakthrough development capabilities in just 15 months
Michelin effectively shortened the number of prototypes and the overall development period by introducing an advanced virtual development method that combines digital design, initial simulation, and its own C3M manufacturing process. This innovative approach not only reflected the high performance standards required by the Ferrari F80 from the early stages of its development, but also contributed to reducing the production of prototype tires by 20-30%.
Outstanding performance through extreme simulation
In collaboration with Ferrari, Michelin further advanced the simulation technology commonly used in the motorsport domain, particularly in the development of hypercar tires, demonstrating strong technological synergy between the two companies.
From the pre-development stage of the vehicle, the optimal tire size was derived through simulation, and it was verified through two virtual tests in Ferrari's Maranello factory dynamic simulator. In the design stage, three additional simulations were conducted to coordinate the detailed characteristics of the tires that perfectly match the performance required by the vehicle.
The ultimate technology to support the performance of the Ferrari F80
Michelin developed a new rubber compound based on the Ferrari F80's powerful output, torque, and blending methods used in motorsports to cope with high aerodynamic loads. It is the first method applied to tires dedicated to ordinary roads, providing excellent grip regardless of driving speed.
In addition, the Michelin Pillot Sports Cup 2 RK1 is designed with a high-strength dual' structure, effectively dispersing the impact and load applied from the transverse as well as the vertical direction, further enhancing the performance and durability of the tire. In addition, Michelin has developed a new shoulder belt reinforcement technology to fully support the performance of the Ferrari F80. In particular, the shoulder part located at the edge of the tire is designed to be harder so that the tire does not easily deform even during high-speed driving, greatly reducing the impact of centrifugal force, and as a result, the grip strength is improved, enabling more stable driving.
All three of these technologies are the world's first tires for general road use. The Michelin Pillot Sports Cup 2RK1 front wheel is 285/30R20 and the rear wheel is 345/30R21, which is also made with a unique standard.
C3M, Michelin's proprietary process method for precise production
Michelin utilized its own C3M production process method to manufacture the technically demanding Michelin Filot Sports Cup 2 RK1 with the highest level of precision. The C3M advanced process allows each material to be precisely placed in the correct location in a manner similar to 3D printing, helping to realize the planned performance at the tire development stage at a high level. Another advantage is that consistent quality can be maintained across multiple production processes.
Michelin's Promise for Sustainable Performance
Michelin has been implementing environmentally friendly innovations since 2016 by introducing simulations throughout tire development with Ferrari. Developed with special marking tires optimized for the Ferrari F80, the Michelin Filot Sports Cup 2 RK1 will be produced at Clermont-Perang's Gravanche plant, which boasts the least water resource use among the world's Michelin plants and has been carbon neutral since November 2019.
Editor Song Moon-cheol mc.song@carguy.kr
This article was translated by Naver AI translator.
