Sustainability Channel

PIRELLI WINS THE "TYRE TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL AWARD 2009"

Hamburg, Germany, 18 February. A matter of pride for Pirelli Tyre at the Tire Technology Expo, the world’s most important exposition-conference devoted to the tyre industry, which organises each year the prestigious ‘Tire Technology Awards for Innovation and Excellence’.

In 2009, the authoritative jury, comprising international exponents of the tyre industry and research, has awarded the title ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ to Pirelli Tyre.

A choice motivated by research as a key factor in the activity of Pirelli in 2008, characterised by the creation of innovative materials, advantages for the environment and the constitution of partnerships with research organisation and institutes, such as those with the Silvio Tronchetti Provera Foundation and the Chinese University of Shandong.

Gianni Mancini, head of area processes, received the award on Pirelli’s behalf. With him on the podium were the representatives of Coda Development, VMI, Sumitomo Rubber Industries and Standards Testing Laboratories, winners of the other four award categories, which are ‘Tire Manufacturing Innovation’, ‘Environmental Achievement’, ‘Tire Technology’ and ‘Tire Industry Supplier’.

CARBON-FREE RACING: THE FIRST SERIES EMPOWERED BY PIRELLI

An innovative approach to motorsports, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup was founded in 2008 and is comprised of 30 factory-prepared and managed 2009 clean-diesel Jetta TDIs piloted by relatively unknown talented drivers aged 16 to 26.

The concept of the Jetta TDI Cup is as revolutionary as the cars raced, and each is powered by a 2.0- liter four-cylinder TDI clean diesel engine. The 2009 Jetta TDI clean diesel that the race car is based on was awarded the 2009 Green Car of the Year award by Green Car Journal.  In addition, Volkswagen has partnered with Carbonfund.org to certify the entire race series as carbon free, highlighting VW’s dedication to keeping our environment clean and carbon free – a dedication shared by Pirelli. 
Pirelli’s  participation  in the Jetta TDI Cup is an important component in the continuation of the Pirelli Group’s goal of creating more “eco-compatible” products, supporting more “green” projects and taking an active role in responsible eco-education through this series and through collaboration between Pirelli’s Silvio Tronchetti Provera Foundation and the universities and companies it partners with.
“This series is a very important part of our Motorsport growth in North America as it provides a platform to introduce young developing talent to our brand while reducing the impact motorsport has on the environment,” said Rafael Navarro, Pirelli Tire North America’s Director of Motorsport and Media Communications.  “Having the ability to support young talent in their progression in racing is one of the hallmarks of over a century of Pirelli Motorsport Heritage.”
“With the Jetta TDI Cup, we are preparing drivers for a career in motorsports and the 2009 schedule will be an impressive resume builder for them,” Volkswagen of America Motorsport Manager Clark Campbell said.”I’m looking forward to seeing our clean diesel Jetta TDIs on the track with Pirelli tires and in front of racing fans across North America.”