The winter studded tire Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV uses the same progressive technical solutions that were previously implemented in the Hakkapeliitta 8 model. However, unlike the latter, this tire is designed exclusively for high-performance vehicles with wheel diameters ranging from 15 to 21 inches. The entire line of tire sizes includes over four dozen sizes, which implies an exceptional applicability of this model to the vast majority of modern crossovers and SUVs.
Like its predecessor, this tire was specifically designed for countries with a harsh winter climate and frequently changing weather conditions. The process of its creation took almost four years and required significant creative efforts from Finnish tire specialists. They decided not to abandon the symmetrical directional tread pattern, as it possesses extraordinary variability in terms of studding, removing a significant portion of the constraints when creating a spike placement scheme.
Nokian Eco Stud 8
The Nokian Eco Stud 8 studding technology owes its appearance to the new European legislation, which significantly tightened the requirements regarding the destructive impact of winter tire studs on asphalt. To meet these requirements, Finnish tire manufacturers had to completely revise the previously used stud design. The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV tire was one of the first to feature an anchor stud with a modified flange shape, which reduced the degree of its deviation when coming into contact with the road surface. This made the stud's contact with the surface more reliable and stable. In addition, a special rubber cushion made of very elastic rubber is now located under the stud, which not only reduced the harmful impact on roads but also significantly reduced the noise level.
Another component of this technology is the spike placement scheme, the location of each spike being the result of computer modeling systems. However, even with the "naked eye," it is easy to notice the amazing evenness of the spike distribution across the entire tread surface. Ultimately, this made it possible to provide excellent traction on ice.
Two-layer tread Cap&base
In addition to selecting the optimal spike placement scheme, Finnish tire manufacturers had to solve the problem of ensuring reliable stud retention in the tire. This was achieved thanks to the two-layer tread design. The studs are secured in the inner layer of the tread, which is made of a particularly durable rubber compound.
In addition to the reliability of stud retention, the rigid inner layer made it possible to improve a range of operational characteristics, including handling on dry asphalt, which was previously considered the "Achilles' heel" of Nokian winter studded tires.
Increased number of tread blocks
The new model features an increased number of tread blocks. This solution made it possible to significantly improve traction characteristics, as the contact patch now has many more sharp edges at its disposal. Additionally, the more tread blocks there are, the easier it is to select the locations for the studs, as mentioned earlier.
Another advantage of this technical solution was the lower tire temperature when driving, which increased the wear resistance of the tread and, consequently, the durability of the tire as a whole.
Reliable and stable handling on winter roads
The updated tread immediately draws attention to the structure of the central part. Unlike its predecessor, the tread blocks located here are rigidly connected to each other, forming a kind of continuous longitudinal rib. The presence of an element with high structural rigidity in this part of the tread made it possible to provide balanced and predictable handling, which will undoubtedly be appreciated by owners of all-wheel-drive urban SUVs. Additionally, this solution made it possible to neutralize the negative impact of the large weight of such vehicles on the tire, reducing the likelihood of uneven wear to a minimum. After all, as is well known, it is the central part of the tread of a tire installed on the driving axle that wears out most intensively.
Innovative rubber compound composition
As is well known, it is the rubber compound that has a decisive influence on all the main technical characteristics of a tire. In this model, a completely new rubber compound, Cryo-silane Gen 2, was used, which is the result of many years of work. The basis for the new rubber compound was second-generation cryosilane. In addition to this, natural rubbers, silica, and rapeseed oil were included in the composition. The latter component can be rightfully called one of the key ones.
Rapeseed oil, being one of the varieties of rapeseed oil, acts as a catalyst that allows all the components of the rubber compound to be combined at low external temperatures. It stimulates the interaction of natural rubber with silicon-containing components and also increases the strength of the tread on rupture. Additionally, the inclusion of rapeseed oil in the composition made it possible to significantly increase the dosage of natural rubber, thanks to which the tire demonstrates excellent elasticity in a very wide temperature range.
Main features of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV tire
- The significantly modified symmetrical directional tread pattern provides the tire with excellent efficiency on any winter surfaces;
- The rigidly connected tread blocks in the central part allow for a more even distribution of external pressure, which gave the handling characteristics stability and predictability;
- The unique Cryo-silane Gen 2 rubber compound with the addition of rapeseed oil provides the tire with excellent elasticity even at very low temperatures;
- The significantly increased number of tread blocks made it possible to substantially improve traction characteristics, especially on slippery surfaces;
- The new stud design and placement scheme, developed with the help of computer modeling tools, provide excellent traction on ice;
- The two-layer tread, thanks to which excellent handling is ensured, both on dry and snowy roads.
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