INFINITI and Pirelli, the official Formula 1 tire supplier, announced that they will collaborate on INFINITI’s “Project Black S.” The new partnership was announced in Montreal at the 2017 Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada by Tommaso Volpe, Director of INFINITI Global Motorsport, and Paul Hembery, Motorsport Director for Pirelli. Unveiled in March 2017, “Project Black S” explores the potential of a future performance grade for INFINITI. Pirelli’s contribution will include the design and construction of bespoke tires developed exclusively for “Project Black S.”

The ground-breaking project hints at how a performance hybrid powertrain, developed in close collaboration with Renault Sport Formula One Team, could significantly enhance the performance and dynamics of an INFINITI Q60.

“We are very excited about our ‘Project Black S’ and the work we are doing with Renault Sport Formula One Team on performance hybrid technology,” said Volpe. “Having another key Formula One player involved is proof of the interest it generates and will add even more focus on performance delivery. As we explore the feasibility of ‘Project Black S,’ Pirelli’s input and knowledge – both motorsport and automotive – will be invaluable. We couldn’t be happier to have them onboard.”

Pirelli was attracted to the Project Black S as a true track-to-road technology transfer project.

“We were fascinated with ‘Project Black S’ since INFINITI unveiled it at the Geneva motor show earlier this year,” said Hembery. “We simply had to get involved. ‘Project Black S’ is the ultimate expression of innovation and cutting-edge technology transfer, which is in our DNA, so we couldn’t let this opportunity go by. We are thrilled to be a part of it and to support INFINITI on this project.”