The winter tire Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10, like the models of previous generations for decades, is the "sales locomotive" of the Finnish manufacturer. The novelty differs from its predecessors with better driving properties. First of all, with grip properties on snow and ice, increased mileage and acoustic comfort.
Optimal stud position
The advantage of this model in terms of grip on snow and ice is largely due to the studding technology. As before, a large number of small metal elements are used. However, the shape of their hard alloy inserts and their location have changed significantly. The star-shaped studs in the shoulder areas are rotated 180 degrees. This allowed to increase the stability of the tire when exposed to lateral acceleration forces. The studs in the central part allow for effective traction and braking when accelerating and braking. The arrangement of steel elements in longitudinal rows with different pitches relative to each other significantly reduces the level of noise and vibrations, improving the acoustic comfort inside the car.
More reliable stud fixation in the tread
Some solutions used in this model were borrowed from tires of previous generations. We are talking about the technology of stud fixation in the tread, which is used here with some important changes. The basic lower layer of the tread, where the flanged part is located, is still made of a compound with increased stiffness. But its thickness was significantly increased, which made it possible to reduce the risk of stud loss. The special "cushion" - the space under the flange filled with air - is used almost without changes. This solution, which has proven itself well in the previous model, makes it possible to significantly reduce the level of noise and vibrations when driving on roads cleared of snow and ice.
Rubber compound based on natural materials
To a large extent, the superiority of this tire over its predecessors in all key driving properties is due to the use of a special rubber compound. A significant part of its composition is represented by oils based on natural materials. One-third of it is rapeseed oil and pine extract. Such a compound is characterized by increased elasticity and strength when broken and stretched even at very low temperatures, which guarantees reliable grip on any winter roads, resistance to abrasive wear, punctures, and tears.
Wear indicator
Another "borrowing" from previous models is the wear indicator. The numbers indicate the remaining tread depth, which for a new tire is about 8 mm. Their absence and the presence of a "snowflake" symbol mean that the tire does not provide the necessary level of safety on snowy roads and should be replaced, or used exclusively on surfaces cleared of snow and ice.
Main features of Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10
- optimal stud edge arrangement provides excellent stability and intense acceleration, braking on icy surface;
- reliable stud fixation in the tread is ensured by the increased thickness of the base layer of the compound;
- special "cushions" under the stud improve acoustic comfort;
- digital and symbolic wear indicators allow you to accurately determine the need to replace the tire.