Winter poses significant challenges for vehicle owners. Electric vehicle batteries deplete more rapidly in frigid conditions as drivers utilize extra energy for cabin heating, while numerous wheels experience loss of traction when snow begins to fall and roads freeze. In such cases, some individuals might resort to tire chains and studded tires; however, a new wheel design has the capability to deploy road-gripping studs whenever necessary.
Recently, Nokian Tyres introduced what it describes as “the world’s first non-studded winter tire featuring studs.” This groundbreaking automotive technology, the Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 01, houses studs within the tire until the temperature reaches a specified level, at which point the studs automatically emerge (without damaging the tire, mind you). This innovation allows users to benefit from the safety of studded tires during icy conditions and then revert to standard tires for the remainder of the year without needing to physically change the wheels. It’s a technology that seems straight out of a James Bond film … or that particular moment in “Batman Forever” where ice skates emerge from Batman and Robin’s footwear.
Nokian Tyres asserts that the Hakkapeliitta 01 provides 10% improved grip on icy surfaces and 5% enhanced grip on wet roads compared to the company’s previous winter tires, all while cutting road wear by 30%. Nokian further claims that these new tires operate more quietly than those of competing brands. Additionally, a majority of the Hakkapeliitta 01’s construction is composed of renewable materials such as pine resin and canola oil. If we can’t use that oil for cooking due to its elevated PAH levels — which are associated with cancer — at least we’ve found an alternative application for it.
Nokian’s studded tires have been a long-awaited innovation
Nokian Tyres has been involved in the winter tire sector since 1934 and has established itself as a leader in tire manufacturing. The Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 01 represents the company’s latest innovation, but the idea didn’t just materialize randomly.
The Hakkapeliitta 01’s development commenced in 2014 as a conceptual tire. At that time, Nokian Tyres aimed to provide drivers with control over the studs of the Hakkapeliitta 01; users could elevate and lower the components at the push of a button. However, as reported by Motor Trend, the technology would have been extremely costly — development manager Mikko Liukkula mentioned that they would have “cost more than the Porsche they were on.”
As time progressed, the concept tire transformed into the automated system it is today. A critical aspect of its launch (at least per Motor Trend) was a proprietary rubber compound that softened in warmer conditions just enough to accommodate the studs and minimize any potential wear. Furthermore, the final version of the Hakkapeliitta 01 includes two types of studs: center studs designed for acceleration and braking, and shoulder studs intended for cornering and lane changing. The Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 01 is suitable for passenger cars, crossovers, and sport utility vehicles. Given that the company offers a range of EV-compatible tires (electric vehicles necessitate specialized tires that can endure greater torque and offer improved traction), a Hakkapeliitta 01 tailored for EVs may not be distant.