In so doing, the new tires were specifically designed to be more precise when changing direction, ensure maximum consistency and less overheating than what was oftentimes seen with the 13-inch tires.

July 10, 2014 Pirelli’s new 18-inch concept tires formed the centre of attention at Silverstone, with Lotus F1 Team reserve driver Charles Pic giving the new design its debut on Wednesday morning.

On casual inspection, the DOT-legal 37x12.50R17LT General Grabber looks just like its race-only cousin, but there’s more under the carcass than meets the eye.