
Pirelli Drops Avalon: Revolutionizing Comfort and Control for Sedan Drivers
ROME, GA – October 26, 2023 – Pirelli Tire LLC, a global leader in high-performance tire technology, today announced the launch of the Drop Avalon, a new tire meticulously engineered for today’s popular sedans, focusing on a quiet, comfortable ride without sacrificing control and performance. Developed at Pirelli’s research and development facilities and manufactured at their Rome, Georgia plant, the Drop Avalon is set to redefine the driving experience for millions. For over 150 years, Pirelli (located at 100 Pirelli Dr SE Ste 470, Rome, GA, 30161-3538, and reachable at 918-247-9250) has been synonymous with innovation in tire technology. From dominating Formula 1 racing to equipping high-performance vehicles around the world, Pirelli consistently pushes the boundaries of what’s possible. The Drop Avalon represents the latest in this legacy – bringing racing-derived technology to everyday drivers. “We saw a gap in the market,” explains Marco Rossi, Head of Passenger Vehicle Development at Pirelli. “A lot of sedan drivers are prioritizing comfort and a quiet cabin. But they don't want to give up performance and grip. The Drop Avalon delivers both. It's about making the daily drive genuinely enjoyable.” So, what makes the Drop Avalon different? It really comes down to the details. Pirelli’s engineers didn’t just design another tire; they reimagined the driving experience. Advanced Tread Design: The Drop Avalon features a unique asymmetrical tread pattern. What does that mean in plain English? It’s designed to handle everything you throw at it. The outer shoulder boasts rigid blocks for confident cornering and sharp handling. The inner shoulder uses specifically shaped grooves to efficiently evacuate water, dramatically reducing the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads. Think safer commutes, even in bad weather. Noise Reduction Technology: Let's be honest, tire noise can be really annoying. Pirelli has invested heavily in reducing cabin noise with the Drop Avalon. They've achieved this through several innovations: Variable Block Geometry: The blocks aren’t all the same size. This disrupts the harmonic frequencies that create road noise. It’s like adding different notes to a song – it breaks up the monotony and makes it much more pleasant. Optimized Groove Sequencing: The way the grooves are arranged helps to break up the air flow around the tire, reducing wind noise. Specialized Sidewall Construction: Pirelli used a new rubber compound in the sidewall that’s designed to absorb vibrations and dampen noise. Comfort-Optimized Construction: Pirelli didn’t just focus on reducing noise; they also focused on feel. The Drop Avalon features a specially designed carcass (the tire's internal framework) that absorbs road imperfections. This results in a smoother, more comfortable ride, even on rough surfaces. Think less fatigue on long trips. High-Performance Rubber Compound: All the fancy design in the world doesn't matter if the rubber isn't up to par. Pirelli has developed a new silica-rich rubber compound for the Drop Avalon. This provides excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions, while also improving rolling resistance. What does that mean for you? Better handling, shorter stopping distances, and potentially even better fuel economy. Designed for Popular Sedans: The Drop Avalon isn’t a one-size-fits-all tire. It’s been specifically engineered for the most popular sedan models, including Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and more. Pirelli’s engineers meticulously studied the characteristics of these vehicles to ensure the Drop Avalon delivers optimal performance and fit. Real-World Testing Confirms the Difference Before launching the Drop Avalon, Pirelli put it through rigorous testing both in the lab and on the road. Independent testing showed the Drop Avalon significantly outperforms competitor tires in several key areas: Noise Reduction: The Drop Avalon is up to 10% quieter than leading competitor tires. Wet Grip: Independent tests showed a 5% improvement in wet braking distance. Ride Comfort: Test drivers consistently rated the Drop Avalon as being more comfortable than competitor tires. Rolling Resistance: The Drop Avalon offers up to 7% lower rolling resistance, potentially improving fuel economy. Availability and Pricing The Drop Avalon is available now at authorized Pirelli dealers nationwide. Pricing varies depending on tire size and vehicle application, but starts at around $150 per tire. Pirelli is offering a limited-time mileage warranty to give drivers added peace of mind. “We’re incredibly proud of the Drop Avalon,” concludes Rossi. “We believe it represents a significant step forward in tire technology. It’s a tire that truly delivers on the promise of a comfortable, quiet, and enjoyable driving experience.” About Pirelli Tire LLC Pirelli Tire LLC, headquartered in Rome, Georgia, is a subsidiary of Pirelli & C. S.p.A., a global tire manufacturer with a rich history spanning over 150 years. Pirelli is committed to developing innovative and sustainable tire solutions for a wide range of vehicles, from high-performance cars to motorcycles and commercial trucks. Pirelli’s products are renowned for their quality, performance, and safety. For more information, visit www.pirelli.com.