Last Updated on April 21, 2024
Discover the Legacy and Superiority of Nokian Winter Tires
When you want the best chance of conquering any extreme winter conditions on the road, you might wish to have Nokian tires fitted on your vehicle.
Why?
It would be reassuring to know that your winter tires were made by a company that invented the world’s first winter tire.
Nokian Tires’ Legacy
Historical Tidbit:
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In the beginning, there were only studded tires:
The first studdable winter tire that was designed was in 1961 – featuring a one-of-a-kind combination of Hakkapeliitta winter tires, Kometa studs, and the studded tire patent (by Veikko Ryhönen, a rubber technician)
Then, non-studded tires came into the picture:
“The first non-studded winter tires were developed in the 1970s; they could partially compensate for the grip properties of the studded tire by using heavy sipes on the tread pattern and new, innovative rubber compounds. The non-studded tire offered better driving comfort, as it was virtually silent,” says Peter Eromäki, who worked at Nokian Tires for over 35 years.
| Historical Tidbit:
Predecessor of Nokian’s Hakkapeliitta: The Kelirengas (“Weather Tire”) “Kelirengas was developed for trucks to move in thick snow. The transverse tread pattern of the tire dug into the snow like a track, which made climbing snowy uphills a lot easier,” says Matti Morri, Technical Customer Service Manager for Nokian Tyres. |
What more do we know about the company Nokian Tires? The important highlights:
1898 – when it all began
- It all started in 1898 when the Finnish Rubber Factory was established. Then, in 1988, Nokian Tires plc was founded.
1934 – the defining year for Nokian Tires
- Nokian Tires invented the world’s first truck winter tire (The Weather Tire).
2013 – Fastest on Ice ever recorded
- Documented in PR Newswire: “Nokian Tyres Fastest on Ice: New Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 sets New World record 335.713 km/hour.”
- Test driver Janne Laitinen registered a record speed of 335.713 kilometers per hour (108.602 mph) in freezing winter weather in the Gulf of Bothnia.
- The test used an Audi RS6.
2015 – Another historic date for the company
- “Nokian Tyres offers the world’s first AA class winter tire (the revolutionary Nokian WR SUV 3) in terms of wet grip and fuel efficiency.”
- Main Innovations:
- Nokian Twin Trac SUV Silica rubber compound (for excellent resistance to wear with its rubber compound containing natural rubber, silica, and rapeseed oil; for fuel efficiency with its shallow rolling resistance feature)
- Nokian Aramid Sidewall technology (sidewall compound contains aramid staple fiber, the same material used in aviation and military purposes, which is extremely durable – making the sidewall highly resistant to wear and cuts)
- Tread model design (symmetrical & directional tread design and strong sipes result in stable handling, even on wet and icy surfaces)
- Snow claws (shaped on the longitudinal and diagonal grooves for a powerful grip on snow)
- Groove lifts (promotes increased and controlled handling on dry roads)
- 3D lock sipe (the sipes stretch from shoulder to shoulder, increasing handling capability)
2020 – Increased production capability
- Nokian Tires began production in their third factory. Location: Dayton, USA
2022 and beyond
- Introduced Hakkapeliitta R5 non-studded winter tire
- The strategic decision to invest in new capacity in Europe
Nokian: Chief Innovator of Winter Tires
- As Nokian Tires puts it: “We’ll always be the inventor of the winter tire. But if we have our way, we’ll always be the main innovator in the market, too.”
Nokian Tires Manufacturing
FACTORIES
Passenger car tires are produced at Nokian factories in Nokia, Finland, and Dayton, US.
Truck and bus tires are designed in Nokia, Finland, and then produced by contract manufacturers in the EU – while all other heavy tires are manufactured at the Nokia, Finland factory.
Regarding future growth, Nokian Tires invested in new European manufacturing capacity.
QUALITY CONTROL IN THE PRODUCTION PROCESS
The manufactured tires are subjected to quality inspection visually by a human inspector and then by a machine.
During visual inspection, the tires will be checked for faults and defects in appearance. The machine will inspect the tire’s patterns, radial throw, and lateral force variation.
After inspection, the tire will be tested, labeled accordingly, and then transferred to the warehouse, ready for delivery.
Investment in Future Growth (6M-tire capacity with expansion potential)
Nokian Tires’ Board of Directors decided to invest in a factory in Romania for passenger car tires in Oradea in the northwest area (near the Hungarian border).
The site is planned to have a warehouse and distribution facility for storing and distributing the manufactured Nokian tires.
Construction of the new facility will be in early 2023, costing approximately EUR 650 million. Production is estimated to start in the second half of 2024.
“We are committed to building a zero CO2 emission factory – the first in our industry. The site location in Romania supports this target as we can utilize green energy produced near the site. In addition, we are critically evaluating the production processes to find the most sustainable ways,” says Adrian Kaczmarczyk, SVP of Supply Operations at Nokian Tires.
As early as this Winter 2022: New Ice Grip Symbol on Nokian Winter Tires
For Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 and R5 passenger, SUV, and EV tires – expect a new ice grip symbol on the sidewalls as soon as this winter.
Bearing this symbol will mean that said tires have been rigorously tested on icy surfaces, according to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards.
Now You Can Tame Winter with these Top 3 Nokian Tire Picks
Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV
Confidently Braving Severe Winters
While the weather can be unpredictable and hazardous, your tires should not be. Continuous improvement from one generation to the next is deeply rooted in our development philosophy. With the new Hakkapeliitta R5, we have focused primarily on superior winter grip and controlled handling, increasing driving comfort, and minimizing the environmental impact.
-Olli Seppälä, Nokian Tires’ head of R&D
Tackle the winter roads like a pro with the Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV tire! Best suited for passenger cars, crossovers, and SUVs, the Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV tire is your ultimate winter companion!
Its feature-packed design provides stability, durability, and wear resistance.
With its ice-breaking performance and advanced Arctic
Grip Crystals, you can brave even severe winters while enjoying a comfortable, puncture-resistant ride. Its Aramid Strong Sidewalls protect your tire from unwanted surprises, allowing you to enjoy winter days on the roads confidently.
Experience improved stability and comfort on the road with its sturdy tire structure while also enjoying fuel efficiency thanks to eco-friendly materials and compound technology.
Get ready for a smooth and safe ride with the Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV!
Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10
Superior Grip, Safety, and Fuel Efficiency in Winter
Results from Independent Comparison Tests – (Source: NokianTyres.com):
- Test Winner: Tekniikan Maailma 2022 (Finland) – “… The tire was praised on the good handling…“
- 1st Place: AFTONBLADET 09/2022 (Sweden)
- Test Winner: Dagbladet 2021
- Test Winner: AFTONBALDET 9/2021
- Test Winner: Tekniikan Maailma 2021
Get ready to conquer any cold conditions with the Hakkapeliitta 10!
With its Double Stud Technology™, The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 is a top-rated studded winter tire that offers superior safety, traction, and comfort. The shoulder studs provide grip during cornering and direction changes, while the innovative tread compounds deliver excellent traction in slightly cold to extreme freezing temperatures. The low rolling resistance design saves fuel and reduces emissions.
This 3PMS-rated tire will help you take on winter with confidence.
Nokian WR C3
Performance & Durability in Winter
The Nokian WR C3: This commercial van tire is designed to provide stable handling, control, and exceptional durability in winter conditions.
With pocket-type sipes that pump out water, a unified center grip and symmetrical tread pattern for driving stability, an optimized winter compound to reduce rolling resistance, a special clinch rubber compound for noise reduction and vibration dampening, a sturdy steel belt structure for fuel efficiency, and an aggressive tread pattern with dense sipe mesh to optimize grip – this tire is truly the perfect winter companion.
It’s perfect for whatever winter challenge you throw: it’s Mountain/ Snowflake (3PMSF) rated – so bring on the snow! Get your Nokian WR C3 today!
Are Nokian tires good?
Yes, especially its winter tires. Being responsible for inventing the world’s first winter tire is no easy feat – and continually coming up with innovations is even more difficult. And the icing on the cake is that these winter tires come out on top in expert tests worldwide.
Trusting the pioneer of Winter Tires: Nokian Tires.
Nokian Tires is the inventor of the first winter tire for automobiles and has been a prominent leader in winter driving safety since 1934. It didn’t rest on its laurels and has continued to innovate – creating breakthroughs in the industry.
Nokian Tires has successfully built on its legacy – and by the looks of it, they aren’t stopping. So, if you want winter tires you can rely on, check out Nokian tires.
Get ready to take on winter with confidence! Trust the pioneers in winter tires to keep you safe and comfortable on the roads this winter – get your Nokian winter tires at Tires-easy today!
Conclusion
In winter tires, Nokian stands out as a brand and a pioneer. Their commitment to safety, innovation, and performance makes them a top choice for winter driving. With Nokian Winter Tires, you’re always prepared, no matter what winter throws.
Navigating winter’s challenges requires the best tools at our disposal. With their legacy of excellence and innovation, Nokian Winter Tires stand out as the premier choice for cold-weather driving.
Their unmatched grip, durability, and safety have solidified their reputation as pioneers in the field. When facing the harshest winter conditions confidently, Nokian Winter Tires remains the gold standard, ensuring each journey is as secure as smooth.
FAQs
What temperature should Nokian winter tires be?
Nokian Winter Tires are optimized for cold weather conditions, typically below 45°F (7°C). They provide the best performance and safety when temperatures drop, ensuring optimal grip and traction on snow and ice.
Is Nokian a good winter tire?
Absolutely. Nokian Winter Tires are renowned for their exceptional cold-weather performance, innovative design, and reliable safety features. Originating from a country known for its challenging winters, Nokian has consistently set high benchmarks in winter tire technology.
How long do Nokian winter tires last?
The lifespan of Nokian Winter Tires depends on various factors such as driving conditions, maintenance, and driving habits. However, with proper care and regular rotation, these tires can last multiple winter seasons, offering consistent performance throughout their lifespan.
Are Nokian winter tires all weather?
While Nokian Winter Tires are specifically designed for optimum performance in winter conditions, Nokian also offers all-weather tires suitable for year-round use. However, for maximum safety and performance in snowy and icy conditions, it’s recommended to use Nokian Winter Tires during colder months.
