Estoril (P), 30 May 2007– Pirelli Competizioni has recently signed an exclusive contract to supply the new Pirelli McRae Enduro Trofeo with its Scorpion Zero tyres. The brand-new championship will run within a number of Cross Country and Baja races sanctioned by world motor sport’s governing body, the FIA.

 Competitors will use identical cars, powered by production-based2.7 litre V6 Turbodiesel engines, putting out 250 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. The essential mechanical components, such as the 4x4 transmission, will also be production-based, mounted within a tubular steel space-frame chassis. The cars will run on 235/85-16 Pirelli Scorpion Zero tyres, which have been tried and tested on cross-country marathons such as the legendary Dakar Rally.

 Pirelli Competizioni’s Rally Manager Mario Isola commented: “This tyre forms the basis of our rally raid programmes. It’s a very competitive and strong tyre that works effectively even on the roughest gravel, so it ties in well with the philosophy behind this new single-tyre championship. The series rules will also dictate that only one compound, construction and pattern may be used – and lowering tyre pressures in order to tackle the most difficult and sandy sections will also be allowed. This rubber is an excellent solution as it showcases the ideal compromise for most conditions – it will be able to adapt itself to all the situations confronting the drivers  throughout the championship. In 2007 there will be a limited number of events on the calendar in preparation for a full season in 2008 – which will of course feature our Scorpion Zero tyres that have been exclusively chosen for the Pirelli McRae Enduro Trofeo. This Trofeo will enhance both the number of competitors involved in Cross Country and Baja racing across the world, as well as the whole reputation of the sport”.

 This year the Pirelli Scorpion Zero-equipped McRae Enduro Rally Car (as it is officially called) will first compete on the Baja GB in England from August 17-19. It will then contest the Morocco ORPI from September 24-30 and finally the UAE Desert Challenge in the United Arab Emirates from November 27-31.

 Pirelli tyres are marketed in Oman by their authorized sole distributor General Trading Enterprises LLC an OTE group of company with strong distribution and service network spread across Oman.