In this paper, validation of a contact model for the prediction of low-speed friction from road surface microtexture is presented. The aim is to couple later this model with another model developed elsewhere to estimate the friction – speed curve from road- and tire measurable parameters. The model development is briefly presented. Microtexture parameters are also described. The experimental program carried out for the validation of the model is detailed. Diverse comparisons are made to show: - The influence of rubber properties on friction; - The correspondence between the British Pendulum Number and the tire μpeak; - The correlation between calculated and measured friction. Promising results are found. Scatter problems are also raised and analyzed to define ideas for further investigations.
