Influence of Tire Pressure Distribution on Vehicle Cornering and Self-Steering Behavior

Tire pressure is a key factor influencing vehicle dynamic behavior, controllability, and handling performance. This study investigates the effect of tire pressure distribution on steady-state cornering and self-steering behavior near the handling limit. Experimental tests were performed on standardized constant-radius circular tracks at the ZalaZONE Dynamic Platform using winter and summer tires. Starting from the manufacturer-recommended reference pressure, the vehicle was tested at increasing speeds until the slip limit was approached. Symmetric and asymmetric front–rear tire pressure configurations were evaluated to assess their influence on steering demand, lateral acceleration, and handling balance. The results indicate pressure-dependent changes in steering angle demand, achievable lateral acceleration, and self-steering characteristics under the investigated test conditions. Asymmetric front–rear pressure distributions were found to modify the understeer–oversteer balance, highlighting the importance of tire pressure distribution in vehicle controllability near the handling limit. The findings provide practical trend-level insights for future studies on vehicle dynamics, stability control, and steering assistance functions, particularly in operating conditions where tire pressure may deviate from nominal values.