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Tyres

Michelin invents all season tyres for high performance cars

With the new CrossClimate 3 Sport, the French manufacturer creates a new market segment for sportier drivers who do not need specific (winter) tyres for the colder months, but want to enjoy the performance of their cars at all times

by Alfonos Rizzo

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3' min read

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Versione italiana

3' min read

Translated by AI

For feedback, please contact
english@ilsole24ore.com

Versione italiana

Michelin revolutionises the all-season market by launching CrossClimate 3 Sport, which brings the advantages of the 'four-season' tyre to sports cars.CrossClimate 3 Sport marks a major step forward for those who want to enjoy the performance of their sports car (up to 300 hp) even in winter without having to change tyres during the season, provided that they do not need tyres specifically for more extreme conditions of use.

Exactly ten years after the launch of the first generation of CrossClimate - which kicked off a new era in the winter-certified summer tyre segment in 2015 - Michelin completely renews its offer for the cold season. The new CrossClimate 3 and CrossClimate 3 Sport are the result of a major technological evolution, responding to the growing demand for versatile, high-performance and safe tyres in all weather conditions.

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The two new models complement the existing range consisting of the Alpin and Agilis families, thus providing complete coverage for cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles. In addition to meeting European winter regulations, the entire Michelin range is now able to satisfy even the most demanding sports car drivers.

A market in full transformation

The growth of the all season tyre market is one of the most significant phenomena of the last decade. From 2014 to 2024, sales of this type of tyre increased exponentially in Europe and in Italy. In particular, the segment has significantly eroded the share of summer tyres, and is now an increasingly popular choice even in the premium market: one in two all season tyres is fitted on premium cars, compared to only one in three among summer tyres.

Italy proves to be a dynamic and steadily growing market, especially in the 18" and up segment, with winter also growing by 12% in 2024.

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CrossClimate 3 Sport: uncompromising performance for powerful cars

La vera rivoluzione, però, arriva con il Michelin CrossClimate 3 Sport, un prodotto unico nel suo genere che apre un nuovo segmento di mercato: quello dei pneumatici sportivi all season. Ideale per auto ad alte prestazioni fino a 300 CV, comprese ibride ed elettriche, il CrossClimate 3 Sport si propone come la scelta perfetta per chi non vuole rinunciare alla sportività nemmeno nei mesi invernali, non avendo esigenze specifiche durante i mesi più freddi. CrossClimate 3 Sport guadagna la Classe A sulla frenata sul bagnato, con un miglioramento del 6% rispetto al CrossClimate 3 e promette un comportamento dinamico ottimale grazie alla tecnologia Michelin Dynamic Response (derivata dal motorsport) con una risposta più diretta ai comandi sullo sterzo. CrossClimate 3 Sport è disponibile in 29 misure (18”–21”), con estensione prevista fino a 23” entro il 2026.

Also produced in Italy, with an eye on sustainability

CrossClimate 3: the new generation for all-Michelin CrossClimate 3 updates the CrossClimate 2 and sets a new benchmark in all-season tyres. Designed for a very wide range of cars and SUVs, including hybrid and electric vehicles, the CrossClimate 3 stands out for safety in all conditions, with a 4% improvement in wet braking (now class B in the European labelling); durability (+15%); lower rolling resistance (optimised energy efficiency also for electric vehicles); and availability in 63 sizes, from 16 to 22 inches. The technologies behind this performance are the V-shaped design of the channels for effective water drainage, an intelligent compound that adapts to changing temperatures and conditions, noise reduction and even force distribution for longer life.

Both new tyres are produced entirely in Europe, including in Michelin's Cuneo plant, the Group's flagship for innovation and quality. A confirmation of Michelin's commitment to contributing to the industrial development of the Italian territory.

All Michelin tyres - including the new CrossClimate - are also suitable for electric vehicles, a strategic choice in line with the evolution of the automotive market and environmental requirements.

Prices and positioning

The CrossClimate 3 retains the same price positioning as the CrossClimate 2, while the CrossClimate 3 Sport has an indicative price premium of 4 per cent. Michelin's winter season offer now boasts three all seasons and three winter tyres. Each tyre has the M+S and 3PMSF markings that certify its suitability for use in severe winter conditions

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