What are Ultra High Performance Tyres and Why Should You Use Them?

Inspired by motorsport, ultra high performance or UHP tyres are a specialised category of tyres. They offer enhanced abilities compared to standard passenger tyres. Let’s explore what sets them apart.

What’s the Difference Between Regular Tyres and UHP Tyres?

Regular tyres are designed for everyday driving, prioritising comfort, longevity, and moderate performance. Ultra high performance tyres, on the other hand, are engineered for maximum grip, precise handling, and high-speed stability. They typically feature more advanced materials and construction techniques to achieve these superior performance characteristics.

How to Recognize a UHP Tyre?

• Speed rating: One of the most telling characteristics of a UHP tyre is its speed rating. UHP tyres typically have speed ratings of V (240 km/h), W (270 km/h), Y (300 km/h), or even (Y) for speeds over 300 km/h in some models. These high speed ratings indicate the tyre's ability to handle the extreme forces generated during high-speed driving. 

• Other indicators: UHP tyres often have a low profile (lower sidewall) and a wider tread than regular tyres.

Are UHP Tyres Made for Track Racing?

While ultra high performance tyres are capable of handling some track conditions, they're not exclusively designed for racing. UHP tyres are developed for high-performance road cars, offering a balance between track-worthy performance and street usability. Therefore, they do not provide the optimal performance needed for racing.

Ultra high performance tyres boast several distinctive features that contribute to their superior performance:

1. Higher speed ratings: As mentioned earlier, UHP tyres are designed to safely operate at very high speeds. 

2. Softer and stickier compound: UHP tyres often use specially formulated rubber compounds that offer a perfect grip on dry surfaces. 

3. Wider tread patterns: The increased contact patch provides better grip, enhancing both acceleration and braking performance. 

4. Stiffer shoulders and lower sidewalls: This feature improves both steering response and cornering stability. So, you’ll get a better feel of the road while driving.

Investing in ultra high performance tyres can significantly enhance your driving pleasure:

• Improved cornering and stability at high speeds: The advanced design and materials used in UHP tyres provide exceptional stability, even at highway speeds and beyond. 

• Enhanced steering response and precision: The stiffer construction of UHP tyres offers more precise steering, allowing for better control of your vehicle, even when navigating tight corners. 

• Ability to withstand higher temperatures: UHP tyres are designed to cope with the heat generated during high-speed driving and hard cornering. Hence, you will not lose traction due to overheating. 

• Better traction and braking performance: The increased grip of UHP tyres translates to shorter stopping distances, particularly on dry roads. They work really well alongside ABS (anti-lock braking systems) which keeps the wheels from locking up during sudden braking. Some of them also provide excellent traction on wet surfaces and reduce the risks of aquaplaning. This means they play a critical role in driving safety. 

• Optimized for sports cars and some luxury vehicles: If you own a high-performance vehicle, UHP tyres can help you unlock its full potential. However, they are not exclusive to sports cars only. If you truly desire to experience superior performance from your everyday passenger car while commuting using UHP tyres, no one can hold you back.

Ready to experience the difference that ultra high performance tyres can make? Our range of premium UHP tyres offers something for every performance enthusiast. Michelin Pilot Sport 4s is one of the UHP tyres we are proud of. If you are interested in these high-performing tyres for your sports car, check if they are available at the dealers in your area here.