Pirelli Cinturato Rosso with Seal Inside technology launched

Pirelli has introduced the new Cinturato Rosso with Seal Inside technology. The launch, which was held in the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, showcased the Italian tyre manufacturer's self-sealing innovation.

If an object such as a nail or a screw punctures the Cinturato Rosso, the sealing mastic inside the tyre sticks to the object and creates a seal around it. When the object is removed, the sealing mastic is 'pulled' towards the puncture and seals its edges.

The aim is to stop the tyre from going flat by preventing pressure loss in the first place. This means the driver won't be inconvenienced by having to stop to change the tyre or become stranded until assistance arrives. According to Pirelli, the technology works on objects with a diameter of up to 5mm, and puncture diameters of up to 6mm.

Pirelli demonstrated the technology by first taking the tyre pressure of an SUV fitted with these tyres. Then, the SUV was driven over a nail to puncture the left front tyre. Upon closer inspection, nail was partially covered in mastic. After the SUV was driven around the hotel's driveway, the tyre pressure was taken again to prove it had not dropped.

The mastic will be 'pulled' when the nail is removed, helping to temporarily seal the puncture

However, Pirelli stated that Seal Inside technology is not a permanent fix for a puncture, and that the Cinturato Rosso with Seal Inside technology is not a run-flat tyre. The company advised drivers to periodically check their tyre pressures, and if a puncture or leak is detected, to bring the tyre to a shop to have it properly patched.

This is because the puncture is like a 'wound'. And if not removed, the nail or foreign object in the tyre can cause the hole to grow as the car is driven, causing a risk of further damage.

Pirelli says the Cinturato Rosso with Seal Inside technology is built with quietness, comfort, and smooth handling in mind. The internal sealing layer aims to provide confidence in daily driving as well as longer road trips. It is designed to fit Japanese premium segment models, whereas the Cinturato P7 and P Zero are aimed at the European model segment.

In Singapore, the Pirelli Cinturato Rosso with Seal Inside technology is available in sizes from 16 inches to 20 inches and can fit vehicles such as sedans and SUVs.