Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV – Northern comfort and unparalleled stability

In addition to its new winter tires for passenger cars, Nokian Tyres is also introducing the non-studded Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV tailored for sport utility vehicles. This new tire combines firm winter grip with precise, enjoyable handling.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV

This full-fledged SUV tire effectively utilises the same innovations and technical solutions as the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 that was developed for passenger cars. This new non-studded introduction to the Hakkapeliitta family of winter tires represents the core competence of Nokian Tyres: the world’s leading winter tire expertise.

The versatile size selection of this ruler of demanding Northern conditions includes 47 products from 15 inches to 21 inches, covering both smaller and larger SUVs. The selection also includes special products that utilise Flat Run technology. The new Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV will be available at tire retailers in the autumn of 2013. The key markets for the new product are the Nordic countries, Russia, and Ukraine.

New Cryo Crystal Concept: optimal grip

The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV actively supports the stability control systems of SUVs, bearing and managing its high wheel loads in a stable, yet flexible, fashion on both icy and wet roads. It is also excellent on snow and bare roads, thanks to its unique Cryo Crystal Concept, new tread model, and innovations that improve winter grip.

The special Cryo Crystal Concept forms a perfect combination with the tread compound developed for non-studded winter tires. Diamond-tough grip particles that have the appearance of a multi-edged crystal have been added to the rubber compound in order to improve grip on ice by grabbing onto the driving surface. The microscopic and eco-friendly particles work like built-in studs, creating sharp, tough grip surfaces inside the rubber. As the tire wears down, new crystals are exposed to provide much-needed grip reserves. This helps to maintain precise handling and excellent grip even as the tire ages.

The cryo-silane based winter silica compound used in the latest Hakkapeliitta winter tires for passenger cars was also adapted to demanding SUV use. The optimal combination of silica, canola oil, and natural rubber provides the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV with the best possible grip on ice, snow, and wet roads, in both extremely low temperatures and rain in temperatures near zero.

The canola oil that is used in the wear-resistant, firmer rubber compound improves grip on ice and snow, and also increases tear resistance. According to tests, the unique rubber compound brings the ice grip of this new non-studded tire to an entirely new level, as in the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2.

Balanced safety under extreme conditions

Optimal winter grip is ensured by a large number of fresh innovations. The management of balanced grip is essential in high-performance SUVs that are higher than normal cars. The ratio of longitudinal and lateral grip needs to be optimal in order to preserve steering and stability in surprising situations that require quick reactions. The straight, effectively serrated shoulder areas of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV increase the gripping edges and allow for reliable lateral grip, especially when cornering.

The denser and sharper zigzag sipes on the aggressive tread pattern increase the grip required during extremely slippery weather and when driving in deep snow. Wider individual sipes create a larger grip surface for rough ice and snow. The heavily grooved surface and the open block gaps in the shoulder area have excellent self-cleaning properties in snow and slush.

The polished side grooves actively drive out the wet slush that collects on the road, preventing the ever dangerous slush-planing and aquaplaning.

Grip claws and Pump sipes ensure stable road holding

The Grip claws located in the grooves between the tread blocks improve grip on snow and ice, especially while braking and accelerating. In addition, the agile grip on snow is furthered by the serrated edges on the side surfaces of the Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV’s central tread blocks.

Sipe activators are included on both the shoulder area and centre tread. These sipe activators are a necessary element that creates additional grip under rapidly changing weather conditions. The wider sipe activates a narrower one, when the feel for the road is weakened.

The pocket-type Pump sipes on the shoulder tread blocks remove water from the road surface, ensuring stable and sure grip. The increased volume of the patented pump sipes further improves wet grip.

Pleasant, predictable driving

The new tread pattern’s unified centre rib and heavily siped tread blocks that expand towards the sides ensure stable, predictable handling for any SUV driver who likes to enjoy the vehicle’s power reserves. The sturdy centre rib also creates a more even wear pattern, providing additional safety as the tire ages. Large winter tires installed on driving wheels will most likely wear out in the centre area first.

The pleasant handling of the sturdy Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV is at its own in the varying Northern winter. The durable multi-layered tread structure ensures that you will move firmly, whether on rural by-roads or urban highways. Impacts and vibration created by uneven road surfaces are damped by the tire’s sidewall before they proceed from the tire into the rim.

Nordic non-studded tires generally achieve the best ratings when the rolling resistances of different tire types are compared. Due to its lightly rolling tread model and entirely new tread compound, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV has minimal rolling resistance, even below the values of summer tires. Lighter rolling results in lower fuel costs and less vehicle carbon dioxide emissions.

Driving Safety indicator and new info area

Indicators on the tread surface provide increased comfort and add to safety. The Driving Safety Indicator (DSI) developed and patented by Nokian Tyres, displays the remaining amount of tread surface on the tire’s main grooves in numbers. The snowflake symbol Winter Safety Indicator (WSI) that indicates winter safety, remains visible to a groove depth of four millimetres. Once the snowflake has worn out, the driver should purchase new winter tires.

The location and pressure indicators on the sidewall information area improve safety. The information area allows for recording the correct inflation pressure and installation location during tire change. Like the other Hakkapeliitta winter tires, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV is also covered by the unique Hakka Guarantee.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV – Northern comfort and stability

First-class winter grip
Extremely stable and sturdy
Pleasant driving feel in all weather conditions

Photos:
www.nokiantyres.com/HakkapeliittaR2SUV

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 – Northern comfort:
http://youtu.be/1KtYGth-4-k

Testing under extreme conditions:
http://youtu.be/f4TSgk_1TQU

The world’s first winter tire in 1934
https://www.nokiantyres.com/first-winter-tyres

Hakkapeliitta winter tires:
www.nokiantyres.com/hakkapeliitta75

Story of the Hakkapeliitta winter tires:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=JA-YfJDKvwE&feature=share&list=PL1BE04B7BAC224A97

Test winner, Nokian Hakkapeliitta:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkQotSMzSfs&feature=share&list=UUv-VDEjbdBkuZ-eSvYOn0FA

Nokian Hakkapeliitta – Fastest on ice:
www.nokiantyres.com/fastest-on-ice
www.nokiantyres.com/fastest-on-ice-electric-car-e-ra

Hakkapeliitta Winter Driving School:
https://www.nokiantyres.com/winter-driving-school