Pirelli & Cie SpA, the parent to Pirelli Tire North America Inc., revealed what's in store for the company in 2005 at the recent 75th International Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland.
In the wake of its strong financial results in 2004, Pirelli's overall plans are to increase its focus on:
* the faster-growing emerging tire markets;
* North America; and
* its MIRS (Modular Integrated Robotized System) automated
production process in the United Kingdom, Germany and the United States.
More specifically, the company is planning to expand its product lines.
1. High performance. Pirelli has added new sizes in its high and ultra-high performance tire lines. The Planet Zero size range is complete.
2. Tuner. The following tuner sizes are being added to the company's P Zero Nero line: 245/30ZR22, 255/30ZR21 and 295/25ZR21.
3. SUV/light truck. New Scorpion Zero Asimmetrico sizes -- 315/40R26, 285/30ZR22 and 335/25ZR22 -- will be added by the end of March. Additional SUV tire sizes are planned as well.
4. Run-flat. Pirelli is in the process of completing its Run Flat Eufori 17- to 19-inch tire line. It is original equipment on the BMW 1 and BMW 3 Series, which were on display at Geneva, and is attracting interest from a growing number of car manufacturers, according to the company. The Eufori is manufactured in MIRS plants.
Pirelli's OE presence with high, ultra-high and SUV tires grew in 2004. On the European front, Pirelli said it will continue its close collaboration with the Peugeot, Porsche, Volkswagen, BMW, Ford, Daimler Chrysler, General Motors and Fiat groups in 2005.
In the U.S., Pirelli said it expects to further increase its OE presence. At the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year, Pirelli was fitted on the Cadillac STS-V for the first time. It also was shown on numerous Ford Motor Co. cars, including the F-150 Harley, Five Hundred Mustang GT, Freestyle and Cobalt Supercharged.
Finally, Pirelli said it will triple its motorsports activities in 2005.
