The artery is composed of elastic fibres which allow the artery walls to stretch following ventricular systole, so that the artery is able to maintain the high pressure.The artery has a smooth endothelial lining which reduces the friction of the blood flow.The artery has a narrow lumen and thick muscular walls to maintain the high pressure so that blood can be pushed far distances around the body.The artery is made up of a thick layer of smooth muscle which allows it to exert a high pressure during contraction.