Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2: this is the tyre that allowed Bugatti to reach 490 km/h

When facing a challenge like nearly reaching 500 km/h, a series of elements must be in perfect harmony with the rest of the whole. Bugatti wanted to prove its ability to surpass itself time and again, but for this it needed the support of brands like Michelin. Thanks to the development of specific tyres, the prototype based on the Chiron managed to reach the staggering speed of 490.484 km/h without disintegrating its tyres. However, the process required to conceive these Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres was not simple, and the company turned to the most cutting-edge technology.

The tyres used during the record attempt are very similar to standard OE specification tyres. These are identified by the marking “BG”, which means they were designed for use on the Bugatti and are road-approved, but the main difference lies in the fact that these had specific reinforcements to withstand the centrifugal force the tyres are subjected to at such high speeds.

To shape this engineering masterpiece, Michelin made use of its Technology Centre in Ladoux, France. At the same time, its facilities in Charlotte, South Carolina were also used, where they have technology capable of subjecting tyres to speeds of up to 510 km/h.

Bugatti and Michelin have been working together for more than 20 years, and on this very special occasion it was no different. Both companies joined forces not only for the development of the tyres, but also for the chassis of the prototype based on the Chiron, which was responsible for breaking the speed record. Much of their effort was focused on creating a tyre capable of withstanding extreme situations, but there was also room for comfort.

The Chiron is not only a vehicle focused on reaching unimaginable speeds, but also on offering a level of comfort that few hypercars can boast. This is how both Bugatti and Michelin have managed to create a fairly balanced car despite the excessive performance it claims.

Apart from these specific tyres, very little is known about the prototype created by Bugatti, so many questions remain to be answered. With the Frankfurt Motor Show about to open its doors, both Michelin and the French firm will surely take the opportunity to reveal more information about this newly achieved feat.