COLCHESTER, Vt.— Nokian Tyres P.L.C. is adapting its aramid sidewall technology, using aramid fiber, to its lines of van and cargo tires, which typically are used on heavier vehicles navigating poor roads, gravel and over curbs.
Such tires—including Nokian's Hakkapeliitta C3; Hakkapeliitta CR3; WR C3; cLine Van; and Nokian cLine Cargo—bear the weight of the vehicle and must provide stable handling under all conditions.
According to Nokian, the strength of the aramid fiber sidewall helps keep the tire stable, reinforcing the sidewall to withstand impacts, cuts and depressions better.
Nokian said the material also is used by the aerospace and defense industries, and it has been in use for several years on Nokian's line of SUV tires.
Petri Niemi, head of product and pricing management for Nokian said the tire maker wanted to offer the same durability to cargo and commercial van drivers. "In addition to protecting against unplanned additional costs caused by tire damage, Aramid fiber also ensures reliability in unpredictable situations."
The product also is available in these lines: Hakkapeliitta R3 SUV (new); WR SUV 4 (new); Hakkapeliitta 9 SUV; Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV; Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV; Hakkapeliitta LT2; Rockproof; eNTYRE C/S; Rotiiva HT; Rotiiva AT; Rotiiva AT Plus; WR G3 SUV; zLine A/S SUV.