Porsche Introduces a New High-Performance Wet Weather Tyre for GT Models

Precision-Engineered for Ultimate Performance

As with all Porsche models, meticulous attention is given to every component, and tyres play a crucial role as the only point of contact with the road. Porsche has a long-standing tradition of collaborating with select partners to create tyres tailored to the brand’s high-performance vehicles. In keeping with this commitment, Porsche and Michelin have introduced a road-legal track tyre specifically developed for the 992-generation Porsche 911 GT3 RS to enhance performance in wet conditions.

“Our performance-focused customers wanted the ability to push their cars on track even in less-than-perfect weather,” says Andreas Preuninger, Director GT Vehicles at Porsche. “With these new tyres, the GT3 RS can be driven on circuits for a longer portion of the year.”

Michelin Pilot Sport S 5: A New Standard in Wet Weather Performance

The Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 bears the ‘N’ designation, signifying its Porsche-specific development. It complements the ultra-high-performance Pilot Sport Cup 2 R, marking the creation of a new tyre category. Designed to deliver outstanding performance on circuits with wet and challenging conditions, the Pilot Sport S 5 also serves as a viable option for daily driving in cooler, damp climates.

Enhanced Grip and Safety in Wet Conditions

Since 2022, Porsche and Michelin have conducted extensive testing at the Michelin Development Centre in Ladoux, France. Porsche Brand Ambassador and former works driver Jörg Bergmeister played a pivotal role in fine-tuning the tyre’s characteristics. A primary focus was improving aquaplaning resistance, achieved through a unique tread pattern with four deep central grooves (7.4 mm depth). This design enhances water dispersion, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and improving vehicle stability at high speeds.

The tyre compound, rich in silica, further improves wet grip and allows the tyre to reach optimal operating temperatures more quickly. Best suited for ambient temperatures between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius, the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 provides superior grip and precision compared to traditional UHP tyres, which perform best at temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius.

“The Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 warms up rapidly,” Bergmeister explains. “Its control and predictability in wet conditions make a significant difference.”

Optimized Performance Across Varying Conditions

To ensure enhanced handling and stability, engineers refined the tyre carcass material and tread geometry. These improvements offer better road feedback, giving drivers increased confidence in extreme conditions. The results are evident: at the Michelin Development Centre’s challenging 2.8-kilometre ‘3bis’ test track, the new tyre enabled 911 GT3 RS lap times that were over 10 seconds quicker than those recorded with the previous Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 N0.

While optimized for wet circuits, the Pilot Sport S 5 remains highly capable in warm and dry conditions. Testing at the Nürburgring and in Portimão, Portugal, confirmed strong performance even at ambient temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius. Engineers carefully balanced tread patterns between the front and rear axles to ensure excellent performance across various conditions. The tyre’s durability also stands out, promising long-lasting track enjoyment.

Market Launch and Availability

Initially, the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 will be available for the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, with sizes 275/35 ZR 20 for the front and 335/30 ZR 21 for the rear. Distribution will be managed exclusively by Manthey, Porsche’s performance specialist based at the Nürburgring.

With this latest tyre innovation, Porsche continues to push the boundaries of performance, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy their GT cars to the fullest—regardless of the season.