RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd. has upgraded its winter tire portfolio with the launch of the Eurowinter HS01 and HS01 SUV Studless Winter Performance Tire
Developed to perform in the harshest winter conditions, the Eurowinter HS01 offers an improved tread compound over its predecessor, the Eurowinter HS449, enabling drivers accustomed to snow on roadways to perform even more effectively, thanks to the tire line's "confident" grip and its predictable performance in ice and snow.
"Modern high-performance vehicles demand winter tires of equal caliber," Rick Brennan, vice president of marketing for Sumitomo Rubber North America (SRNA), distributor of the Falken brand in North America.
"Falken's Eurowinter HS01 and HS01 SUV tires are built to help drivers conquer icy and snowy roads with confidence."
SRNA claims the Eurowinter HS01 and HS01 SUV have 5% improved snow braking and 6% improved wet braking versus the HS449.
The HS01 launches in 31 sizes, covering rim sizes of 16- to 21 in inches, while the HS01 SUV comes in 11 sizes covering 18- to 21-inch rim diameters. All sizes are either V- or W-speed rated.
Tires are produced at SRI's plant in Thailand. Pricing information was not disclosed.
SRNA points to the company's proprietary 4D Nano Design and silica dispersion technology for ensuring the HS01's tread remains pliable and functional in freezing temperatures, while 3D "Canyon Sipes" and biting edges provide increased snow and ice traction without compromising vehicle stability.
Additionally, the tires feature a directional tread pattern, with central transverse grooves extending from the center area that expand in width to the shoulders, facilitating higher levels of snow performance and more efficient water dispersion, SRNA said.