Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the development of modern Formula One cars and the tyres form about 25-30% of the whole picture. For this reason, Pirelli gives all the teams replica tyres to use in their wind tunnels and for development.

There are two samples available: a scaled down wind tunnel tyre that is about half as big as the real thing. Then there is a virtual tyre, which reproduces digitally the characteristics of the race tyres and allows the teams to simulate how it will perform on track.
 

 
On-track aerodynamics can be easily replicated in a wind tunnel, where Pirelli’s scale model tyre will change shape laterally and vertically in exactly the same way as a real tyre would under acceleration, braking and cornering.

Pirelli pays particular attention to the development of its wet weather tyres. There are two of these products available: intermediate and rain. The tread patterns of the wet weather tyres generate greater resistance and different vortices, but this is essential to guarantee the best possible safety and precision in all weather conditions