Korean specialist Kumho...

Korean specialist Kumho has developed new road and track rubber, called the Ecsta MX-C, which produces clouds of red smoke when spun. The amazing invention has been wowing US motorsport audiences, and is now available here.

Scientists added a combination of colour chemicals to the compound in order to produce the spectacular effect. As with normal tyres, the rubber is black, but it does have a red tinge.

A spokesman told us: "The tyres have been a very effective publicity tool in America, and have delighted crowds. They are a good example of how our hi-tech factories can develop niche items."

He promised that other tyre smoke colours, including blue and yellow, will be wheeled into the UK soon.