The Nokian zLine SUV tire was introduced simultaneously with the similarly named "passenger" model, on which it was based. Differing in its reinforced structure, it is much better suited to the increased load created by the increased weight of modern SUVs.
A significant portion of the changes were made to the tire's sidewall. Special aramid fibers are used here. They significantly increased the stiffness of this part of the tire, while its weight remained almost unchanged, thanks to the lightness of the material used. Additionally, it allowed to increase the efficiency of sidewall protection against mechanical impact.
All tread ribs in the central part are dotted with Z-shaped drainage elements. They are located against the direction of travel and are directed at a significant angle. This significantly improves their performance in water evacuation, which is directed into one of the grooves between the ribs. This improves the tread's ability to resist aquaplaning. Similar elements are also present on the edges of the tread, their shape has also been optimized to provide the fastest possible water evacuation from the center.
The Coral Silica compound was used in the manufacture of this tire. The name is due to the configuration of molecular bonds between its components. This feature provides not only uniformity of the rubber mixture, but also a number of other advantages. In particular, this is the ability of the tread to effectively withstand the effects of unfavorable factors, primarily excessive heat. In addition, the compound contains a lot of silica, which improves its performance in bad weather conditions.
Key features of Nokian zLine SUV:
- increased stiffness and resistance to mechanical damage of the sidewalls due to the reinforced design with aramid fibers;
- Z-shaped transverse grooves improve traction in bad weather conditions;
- Coral Silica rubber compound provides tread integrity at high speed and reliable traction on wet roads.