Scelta pneumatici per la Coppa Valtellina: LP9Engineering al lavoro

Tire selection for the Coppa Valtellina: LP9Engineering at work

Research and development work continues in the mountains of Valtellina. In preparation for the Coppa Valtellina , one of the most anticipated events in the Italian rally scene, LP9Engineering is actively engaged in an in-depth analysis of tire pressure and selection , with the aim of optimizing the car's dynamic behavior in real-world racing conditions.

The protagonist of this project is a Peugeot 106 Rallye , light, precise, and perfect for targeted testing on asphalt surfaces. The tires used for the competition are Pirelli P Zero RK , the range developed by Pirelli for asphalt rallies.

Pirelli P Zero RK: ​​performance and versatility on asphalt

Thanks to its two longitudinal grooves , this tire designed for asphalt offers excellent performance in both dry and wet conditions . The channels, positioned on the inside of the tread, improve directional stability and help prevent aquaplaning. The outside, however, features an asymmetrical profile with a flatter and less grooved footprint, optimized to maximize grip and lateral stability , two key aspects in the twisty sections typical of the Valtellina rally.

Fund Analysis: 3D Technology with iPhone 15 Pro

One of the most exciting aspects of this project is the ability to analyze the roughness and condition of the asphalt with accessible and precise tools, thanks to the power of the LiDAR sensor integrated into our iPhone 15 Pro .

We use a series of free apps and software to perform three-dimensional surveys of the road surface , generate point clouds and analyse profiles and deviations from the ideal plane .

✅ What we use

  • iPhone 15 Pro

  • 3D scanning apps:

    • Polycam (very accurate, free version sufficient)

  • Rigid support for the smartphone , or hand relief with controlled movements

  • Software on PC:

    • CloudCompare (free, open-source, and very powerful)

    • Alternatively: MeshLab

📏 What we get

  • Average deviation from flatness

  • Surface roughness on a small scale

  • Detailed roadway profiles

  • Color maps of micro-irregularities

🔧 Some practical tips

  • Scan in shadow or constant light to avoid distortion

  • Use ground references (e.g., squares or tape marks) to validate dimensional measurements

Thermal control: precise measurements, reliable data

LP9Engineering is also equipped to detect the temperatures of the rim and the asphalt both before and after each pass.

We use a high precision pyrometer to monitor:

  • Cold and hot rim temperature

  • Asphalt temperature , essential for evaluating real grip and choosing the right compound

This data allows us to correlate tyre performance to real-world conditions and further refine pressure and set-up strategies .

Engineering applied to reality

This project demonstrates once again how LP9Engineering is much more than a technical studio: it is a mobile solutions laboratory , where passion for motorsport meets concrete tools and advanced engineering knowledge.

Stay tuned: in the next updates we will share the first results of the analysis , technical considerations on the most effective pressures and content directly from the Coppa Valtellina service park.

Stay tuned!
📍 lp9engineering.com

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