RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Best in class R&D

The research and development activities carried out by Pirelli constitute a central phase for the development of new products. Pirelli counts over 2,000 people engaged in R&D, between the Milan headquarters and the 12 technology centres located all over the world, allowing a direct relationship with markets and end users, and with the main vehicle manufacturers whose R&D centres and factories are located in the same geographical areas.

Pirelli’s model for research and development is carried out through a number of collaborations with partners who are external to the Group - such as suppliers, universities and the vehicle manufacturers - for the purposes of pre-empting technological innovations for the sector, to direct research and development activities, and to respond to the needs of the end consumer

Technological innovation is an essential element of the Pirelli strategy and plays a central role in the company’s business model: Pirelli’s investment in R&D is around 5 per cent of its revenues from High Value products and boasts a portfolio of more than 5,900 patents. The research and development activities contribute substantially to the improvement of environmental efficiency along the entire product life-cycle, from the innovative raw materials to the process, distribution, use and up to the end of life of tyres.