Nokian to add ice grip symbol to winter tire line

DAYTON, Tenn.—The tire maker that claims to have invented the winter tire soon will show consumers that a line of its tires has passed a ice-gripping test to make their travel smoother.

Nokian Tyres P.L.C. is adding an "ice grip" symbol to the sidewalls of its Hakkapeliitta 10 and R5 passenger, SUV and EV tires that indicates they have passed rigorous testing on icy surfaces, according to standards established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

The symbol may start appearing on tires sold in North America and other parts of the world as soon as this winter, according to the Nokia, Finland-based tire maker.

To be eligible for the symbol, Nokian said the tires' ice performance was verified through an internationally agreed-upon ice-braking test by an accredited independent test laboratory. Tires had to perform at least 18% better than a standard reference tire to receive the symbol.

Nokian said the symbol is meant to reinforce with consumers the tires' ability to brake on ice. The tires also carry the tire industry's 3-peak Mountain Snowflake Symbol (3PMS), indicating they perform well in extreme winter conditions.

Nokian said it partnered with testers and other tire companies to formulate the test methods and standards for the symbol.

Steve Bourassa, director of products, said the symbol offers " more evidence that our winter tires offer legendary peace of mind in the toughest winter conditions. As the inventor of the winter tire, we work hard to lead the market in winter innovation so we can continue to keep drivers safe."

The non-studded Hakkapeliitta R5 debuts this winter, featuring a double block grip design that provides traction on wintry surfaces, and a new rubber compound that offers comfort and efficiency, according to Nokian.

The studded Hakkapeliitta 10, in its second winter season, combines state-of-the-art technology, rigorous testing and innovative production methods for better winter driving, Nokian said. The tire maker's double-stud technology changes stud positioning to optimize grip and handling on ice and hard-packed snow, according to Nokian.

Nokian manufactures the products both in Finland and at its factory in Dayton.