Pirelli Ready For Gravel Of Argentina
Milan, 8th July 2005 - After three rough and hot gravel rallies held in the Mediterranean , the World Rally Championship moves to the other side of the globe in Argentina , as the season enters its second half. After the scorching temperatures of the recent events, competitors now find themselves plunged into the depths of winter, as Argentina is in the southern hemisphere. This means that the all-gravel event is characterised by a wide range of temperatures which can be close to freezing point in the mornings. Heavy rain is also a frequent occurrence. The surfaces are quite varied, but mostly consist of soft and loose gravel which can quickly turn to mud. In these demanding conditions, Pirelli has an excellent record, with three Argentina wins in the last five years. Just one tyre pattern will be used by Pirelli is three partner teams (Subaru, Peugeot and Mitsubishi): the tried-and-trusted KP , which made a winning debut in New Zealand last year. Conditions in New Zealand are not entirely dissimilar to those which will be encountered in Argentina, so hopes are high for another strong performance. As always, the P Zero range is equipped with Pirelli's EMI anti-deflation system. FOR STAGES WITH SOFT AND SOMETIMES WET GRAVEL KP: (Size: 205/65-15) Steps: 2,4 and 6 (with evolution) Description: The KP is specifically designed to perform at its best in the mixed conditions which are likely to be encountered in Argentina . The KP works effectively in a wide range of weather, but is particularly effective when there are intermittent patches of water and mud. For heavier rainfall, the KP can be cut in order to disperse water even more effectively. The KP will be supplied to teams with a wide range of compounds to cope with the variety of temperatures seen in Argentina . The softest compound - the KP6 - is likely to be used in the coldest temperatures of the morning, while a progressively harder selection is available as conditions warm up. NB. The higher the step number, the softer the tyre compound. THE PRODUCTION CAR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Argentina is the fifth round of the Production Car World Championship. The Pirelli runners will run with especially reinforced KM tyres, as the rules do not allow Group N cars to use anti-deflation mousse. More information and photographs on Pirelli's motor sport activities: www.pirellicompetizioni.com