NOKIA, Finland (Jan. 30, 2017) — Nokian Tyres P.L.C. has developed and patented a "functional stud concept" that is at the heart of its newest Hakkapeliita winter tire range, which will be available in Europe and North America for the 2017-18 winter season.
Nokian claims the studded Hakkapeliitta 9 — designed for Europe's Nordic countries, Russia and North America — adapts to all forms of winter, thanks to the new stud concept, which involves "dedicated, tailored" studs for the center and shoulder areas of the tread surface. The studs help to optimize braking, acceleration and cornering on icy and snowy roads.
Juha Pirhonen, vice president of research and development for Nokian Tyres, said the new stud concept balances "longitudinal and lateral grip with eco-friendliness" thus allowing drivers to remain safe even if the weather and grip level change suddenly.
The studs in the center area feature a beveled body and a wider pin, which allows them to penetrate deeper into the ice than before, resulting in improved braking grip and lateral grip, Mr. Pirhonen said.