We’ve all noticed it: Winters seem to be getting more extreme and lasting longer. Winter presents some of the most challenging driving conditions, with roads likely to be wet or covered with snow or ice. Have you considered fitting Cold Weather tyres? Maybe you should…
Cold Weather tyres such, are not just for driving in the snow. They are specially designed for a wide range of wintry conditions such as damp and wet roads as well as snow and ice. Contrary to popular belief, Cold Weather tyres do not wear more quickly than summer tyres so make sure you fit them early to enjoy maximum benefits. It is also recommended that you fit 4 Cold Weather tyres for optimum safety. As the cold weather approaches don’t be caught out, switch to Cold Weather tyres and drive in confidence.
For tyres, Winter starts before your thermometer even drops to freezing. At cool temperatures, the performance of regular ‘Summer’ tyres starts to suffer, and ‘Winter’ tyres start to have the upper hand. The differences can be startling: a typical car travelling at just 50km/h¹ on snow will take 48m to come to a halt with Summer tyres – a scary 24m more than if the same car is equipped with Cold Weather tyres.
One major difference between Summer and Cold Weather tyres is the formulation of the rubber used to make them. A good example is the new Alpin tyre produced by MICHELIN which uses a special compound that enhances grip and braking power even on wet or icy roads.
Because there’s less friction on Winter roads, tyre tread is even more vital. Cold Weather tyres need all the grip they can get – so they have wider, more uniform contact areas allowing a more gradual shift from one tread block to another. This new generation of Cold Weather tyres has 71 tread patterns per tyre, designed to stop snow, slush and water collecting between tread blocks. They create a caterpillar-like effect on slippery surfaces to get you going more easily… and help you stop when it counts.
Are Cold Weather tyres just for snow? What about the Winters many European countries can face? Temperatures can be sub-zero or mild, while roads can change very quickly between dry, wet, ice and snow.
The fact is, Cold Weather tyres designed for these kinds of climates perform better on every surface – so it’s a good idea to consider changing your tyres when the cold weather comes. Look for a brand that offers both superior mileage and braking, and make them an even wiser investment.
Talk to Auto Fast Fit about which Cold Weather tyres are suitable for your vehicle and your needs. 1Braking distance on snow from 50 to 0 km/h. Test carried out in 2007 by independent testing body "Test World" in Ivalo, Finland using 195/65 R 15.
