Sumitomo releases winter tires for minivan tuning

Starting in September, Sumitomo Rubber Industries will be gradually introducing new winter tires, Dunlop W01 for Winter with white sidewall markings, to the Japanese market. These tires were developed in response to the growing popularity of minivan tuning in the country and will join the existing summer tire lineup, Dunlop W01, which was introduced in January in a similar design.

According to the company, the expansion of the lineup will allow minivan owners to enhance the appeal of their vehicles throughout the year. The new tires not only provide a high level of safety in winter conditions but also boast durability, which will reduce consumer expenses, including those of vehicle fleets.

The white color is used for the Dunlop logo and other design elements on the sidewalls. Sumitomo notes that the demand for summer tires with similar designs has been increasing every year, and it is expected that this trend will also affect the winter tire segment.

The Dunlop W01 for Winter tire features interlocking lamellas that increase traction in turns and reduce the likelihood of slipping. The reduced deformability of the blocks shortens the braking distance on ice and improves stability on snowy roads. Additionally, the tire profile is optimized for more reliable contact with the road surface, including when the vehicle is lightly loaded and used in an unloaded state.

The tires will be available in three sizes: 195/80 R15, 215/65 R16, and 215/60 R17.