SUV Version of Nokian’s Hakkapeliitta 7 Released

Nokian Tyres reports that the market launch of its new Hakkapeliitta 7 SUV studded tyre has provided 4×4 drivers “who enjoy driving in varying winter conditions” a “superior alternative” in terms of grip and driving stability. This new tyre, the Finnish manufacturer states, combines unyielding grip with exceptional durability and unique driving comfort. Designed for heavy use, this latest addition to the Hakkapeliitta winter tyre range is intended to continue Nokian’s emphasis on what it identifies as a core strength: the world’s leading winter tyre expertise. Nordic winter conditions were a focus when designing the Hakkapeliitta 7 SUV, and Nokian reports the tyre can easily adjust to quick changes in weather and temperature, from frost to snow storm to rain. The technical solutions incorporated into the passenger car version of the Hakkapeliitta 7 have also been adapted for use in this 4×4 tyre.

Grip and road contact are looked after by Nokian’s ‘Air Claw Technology’ – a combination of an entirely new stud solution and the droplet-shaped air shock absorbers in the front edge of the tread blocks. This innovation, Nokian explains, is similar to the cushioning used in some running shoes: the air vents in the tyre soften and absorb the studs’ impact on the road, and at the same time reduce stud vibration when in contact with the road surface. The air chamber technology also reduces road wear, reduces tyre noise and improves stud durability.

The new multi-edged anchor stud is designed to enhance longitudinal and lateral grip on a slippery surface. Nokian expounds that “the bear claw familiar from previous Hakkapeliitta tyres keeps the stud perpendicular to the surface as the tread block is optimally tightened when brakes are applied. Ensuring a smooth and safe driving experience is the new generation Eco Stud System, a stud cushion that enhances the stud’s performance and absorbs its impact against the road.”

While Nokian says the new tyre’s predecessors served as a reference point in the development of the Hakkapeliitta 7 SUV, the latest 4×4 models were also utilised when designing the tyre. Research conducted by the company’s R&D team was supported by testing at Nokian’s test centre in Ivalo, Finland.

“For heavy high-performance SUVs, balanced grip characteristics and the ability to control them are vital. Drivers who love to drive an SUV especially want reliable lateral grip to ensure good steering and stability of the high vehicle in high speed and in extreme conditions. To further improve the excellent lateral grip of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta SUV 7, the shoulders of the tyre are equipped with slush edges customised for SUV use to effectively remove the snow and slush between the tyre and the road surface,” commented Teppo Huovila, Nokian Tyres’ vice president, R&D.

The Hakkapeliitta 7 SUV will initially be available in 21 sizes for 16 to 21-inch rim diameters. Retail sales of the studded SUV tyre will begin in spring 2010 in Nokian Tyres’ key markets, including the Nordic countries, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Belarus.