- Pirelli has introduced a new range of products. all-terrain tires In North America known as the Scorpion XTM AT.
- The off-road tires come in two versions: one designed for gas-driven trucks and SUVs, and another featuring Pirelli’s Elect technology tailored for plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle models.
- At launch, there will be 21 different sizes available (comprising 10 regular sizes and 11 Elect sizes), featuring wheel diameters between 17 and 20 inches for the standard tires and between 18 and 22 inches for the Elect tires.
The concept of using one vehicle for daily commutes as well as outdoor adventures holds significant allure in the U.S., where numerous individuals already possess trucks or SUVs designed precisely for such dual purposes—a perfect example being a Toyota Tacoma equipped with a rooftop tent at a Kroger parking lot. Catering to this demand, Pirelli is venturing into the upper echelons of this profitable segment by launching its newest and toughest all-terrain tire: the Scorpion XTM AT. This innovative product was crafted through collaboration between teams based in Texas and Brazil, aiming explicitly “to bring joy to American drivers,” remarks Ian Coke, who serves as the Chief Technical Officer of Pirelli North America.
The Scorpion series originated back in 1998 with the introduction of the Scorpion Mud, a rugged tire engineered specifically for challenging terrains and exclusively off-road vehicles, unsuitable for regular roads. After more than twenty-five years and numerous iterations of Scorpion tires, Coke asserts that the Scorpion XTM AT "shouldn’t be considered suitable for street driving; this is built purely for off-roading." However, our experience from testing these tires both on paved surfaces and rough trails suggests that the XTM AT might achieve what the original Mud failed to accomplish fully.
Pirelli highlights the Scorpion XTM AT’s robust, highly voided tread design. This tread configuration with strategically sized blocks aims at minimizing road noise while ensuring superior control and off-road capability. This sturdy pattern extends through the dual-layer, thick-gauge, multi-part sidewalls which Pirelli refers to as the claw effect. It proves especially beneficial during travel on sandy terrains or other unstable grounds. Achieving this seamless continuity up to the shoulders required Pirelli to innovate within their production methods, diverging significantly from more than 150 years of established tire-making practices. Additionally, the Scorpion XTM AT includes stone rejecters embedded in the tread; thus, should you spot an unclean vehicle adorned with these tires out on the roads, maintain ample space to safeguard your windscreen. As advised by Ian Coke before we embarked on our test drive: “Maintain extra spacing amongst vehicles since those stone ejectors indeed function effectively.”
This tire gets the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) The rating indicates that this model can effectively handle snowy conditions. According to Pirelli, the XTM AT features an innovative compound technology enabling varying transition stages. This means the internal bonding of the rubber adapts with changes in temperature, ensuring the tire stays pliable regardless of heat levels. "We're talking about a real three-peak mountain snowflake here," states Coke regarding the tire. "And it’s definitely a robust version of the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol."
The most significant announcement might be the launch of the Scorpion XTM AT Elect tire, tailored explicitly for electric trucks and SUVs with distinct objectives. According to Coca-Cola (assuming this was meant as an introduction), the Elect boasts “significantly lower rolling resistance compared to standard models.” This feature aims at enhancing both range and efficiency, resulting in up to 5 percent greater travel distance when contrasted with regular tires from Pirelli. Nevertheless, the company notes that noise levels remain similar between the two versions. Additionally, they mention that the reduction in rolling resistance comes at the cost of diminished off-road capability, particularly in muddy conditions.
We got the chance to test the Scorpion XTM AT on both a 2025 Ford Bronco and a Jeep Wrangler. One standout feature was how quietly they performed; even in the relatively open interior of the Bronco, distinguishing tire sounds required some focus amidst the wind noise. While you could detect their presence, the sound wasn’t overly intrusive. Another notable aspect was the durability of the tread: despite aggressive terrain including high-speed drives over rough gravel paths filled with jagged stones and abrupt drops—lasting roughly twenty miles—not one of our group reported losing any pieces from the tires. This consistency held true throughout all four sets tested across those two weeks. Visually too, these tires impressed—they boast a robust-looking continuous shoulder design which adds aesthetic appeal along with functionality. As wear occurs near the rim, this banding remains sleek and streamlined rather than becoming ragged or uneven.
At launch, the Scorpion XTM AT comes in 21 different sizes, expanding gradually until it reaches a comprehensive lineup of 37 sizes overall. However, the dimensions between the electric vehicle (EV) tires and conventional ones vary significantly; the EV variant starts at a minimum width of 275 mm, whereas regular models begin as low as 235 mm wide. In terms of diameter options, the EV model offers wheels ranging from 18 to 22 inches, compared to 17 to 20 inches for the typical size. Once every planned dimension becomes accessible, this complete collection will span across widths starting at 235 mm up to 295 mm, encompassing various aspect ratios such as those rated at 50%, 60%, 70%, and even higher. It will feature rim diameters extending from 17 inches right through to 24 inches, alongside three distinct speed categories: R (capable of reaching speeds up to 106 mph), S (up to 112 mph), and T (maximizing performance at up to 118 mph). Additionally, flotation sizes will be included within these specifications. This robust offering includes a generous 55,000-mile limited warranty intended to provide consumers confidence when navigating challenging terrains without fearing potential damage.
Pirelli doesn’t deal directly with customers, which means prices vary based on their partnerships with different tire distributors. However, Pirelli shared some sample prices with us: A typical size for mid-sized pickup trucks like the LT 265/70R-17 123S comes in at around $282, whereas the Elect model in dimensions of 275/60R-20 115T has an asking price of about $344. While these figures might seem steep, they align well with comparable products available in the market. We were curious too about whether the Scorpion XTM AT could become standard equipment on newer models of vehicles such as trucks or SUVs. According to Pirelli, discussions are ongoing with vehicle manufacturers; notably, they mentioned collaboration efforts with companies including Rivian and plans related to the upcoming 2026 Ram 1500 REV.
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