Driving Innovation: Circumnavigating the Globe in Under 8 Days with Michelin Tires
In a groundbreaking achievement, Mercedes-AMG and Michelin traveled the equivalent of Earth’s circumference, 40,075 kilometres (24,855 miles), in under eight days at 300 km/h. The journey began at the Nardò Technical Center in Italy, where the CONCEPT AMG GT XX electric vehicle maintained a consistent speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) throughout.
This endurance record highlights the future of high-performance electric mobility and showcases Michelin’s latest innovation: the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 energy tire.
This success paves the way for the commercial launch of the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 energy range in 2026, bringing race-proven technology to everyday drivers.
Here’s what made it possible:
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 energy tire, engineered for performance, consistency, and energy efficiency, featuring an advanced dual-compound tread design
The CONCEPT AMG GT XX, powered by the new AMG.EA electric platform, delivering over 1,300 hp and setting 25 EV endurance records
Michelin teams on site 24/7, including engineers and technicians, ensuring optimal tire performance through real-time monitoring
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 Energy: Engineered for Performance and Efficiency
Developed specifically for the CONCEPT AMG GT XX, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 Energy tire combines advanced materials and innovative design:
Dual-Compound Tread Architecture:
Energy-efficient compound on the outer edges helps reduce energy consumption
Adaptive grip compound in the centre enhances traction on both dry and wet surfaces
Real-Time Monitoring:
Integrated RFID technology enables continuous performance tracking and optimization
Custom Dimensions:
Front: 265/40 ZR20 107Y XL MO1
Rear: 295/40 ZR20 113Y XL MO1
These features help deliver consistent performance and improved range, making them ideal for long-distance electric driving.
Strategic Partnership
This record-setting challenge marks the latest milestone in a 30-year collaboration between Mercedes-AMG and Michelin. The partnership is built on shared values of innovation, performance, and sustainability.
Michelin provided technical support 24/7 throughout the event, including:
On-site engineers and technicians
Dedicated tire fitting teams
Continuous monitoring and support
"Congratulations to Mercedes-AMG for this symbolic endurance record, to which Michelin is proud to have actively contributed. This circumnavigation in under eight days by the CONCEPT AMG GT XX is a striking demonstration of the possibilities of innovation: tyres capable of delivering both performance and energy efficiency, from the first to the last mile. This success takes on its full meaning on the eve of the commercial launch of the new MICHELIN Pilot Sport 5 energy range. This will benefit directly from the technologies validated in the field, such as the never-before-seen dual-rubber architecture on the tread. This challenge illustrates Michelin’s commitment to turn its sporting challenges into innovation accelerators for mobility that is ever more sustainable".
Serge Lafon President, Automotive Original Equipment Business Line, Michelin
Give Your Mercedes-AMG the Tire It Deserves
Source: based on the Michelin press release 08-28-2025: Michelin and Mercedes-AMG innovate to travel the Earth’s circumference and set an endurance record in an electric car | Michelin
Photos credits: (c)Mercedes-AMG, (c)Michelin