Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyre proves its mettle

Round 8 of the 2014/2015 FIA Formula E Championship took place at Berlin's former Tempelhof Airport where the Michelin Pilot Sport EV lived up every bit to its reputation. 

Due to the relative lack of traffic, the twisty 17-turn, 2.47km course was dusty and dirty early in the day, not to mention the abrasive nature of its concrete slabs.

At the same time, its width allowed the drivers to run three abreast in places and also led to repeated heavy braking and hard acceleration. Combined, these ingredients stood out as a big challenge for the Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyre which features a grooved tread pattern. 

Manager of Michelin's Formula E programme, Serge Grisin, said, "The conditions improved and, although we knew the surface would be tough on tyres, we believed we would be able to contain the phenomenon of wear." 

The first free practice session was dominated by Switzerland's Sebastien Buemi (e.dams-Renault), while the second was topped by Brazilian Luca di Grassi (Audi Sport Abt). However, it was Italy's Jarno Trulli (Trulli Racing) who surprised in qualifying by securing his first pole position of the championship, ahead of di Grassi and Buemi. Germany's best-placed representative Nick Heidfeld (Venturi) earned the other slot on the second row.