Hankook to launch new eco-winter tyre

While winter conditions in many of our neighbouring European countries are much more severe than here in the UK, Hankook representatives point out that some of these boast lower accident rates. Why? A major factor in this is down to tyre choice. Hankook therefore believes it is essential that “we educate our customers on winter tyres and contribute towards a reduction in motoring accidents during winter.”

So what’s Hankook’s view on when we fit winter tyres? The temperature in the UK generally begins to drop to below 7˚C in October which is when Hankook advises UK motorists to fit winter tyres.  Summer tyres can then be re-fitted in April as the temperature begins to rise once more. And to support this Hankook is launching a new eco-friendly winter tyre next month which meets the new EU labelling regulations providing advanced low rolling resistance, superior grip and a reduction in noise.  According to the company, the new winter tyre is specifically designed for small and medium-sized cars.

Do I need to inform my insurance company?

Following something of a media frenzy on the subject last year, Hankook is the only tyre manufacturer to proactively offer a recommendation on whether or not winter tyre users need to contact their insurance company. The company’s view is that the Association of British Insurers (ABI) advises you should always check with your insurance provider to inform them that you plan to fit winter tyres to your vehicle.  Most major motor insurers would not class the fitting of winter tyres as a modification however it is worth double checking with your insurer just in case.

Manufacturer encourages the market to get to grips with winter tyres

Hankook currently offers a range of winter tyres including: The Winter i*cept evo (W310), which is specifically designed for upper midsize to prestige vehicles. Its optimised silica compound helps to improve performance in snow, ice and wet conditions. The Hankook Winter i*cept evo (W310) is available in 14 dimensions in the UK, from 17 – 18 inches (series 45 to 35) in tread widths of 205 – 255 mm (speed rating V).

For those customers who do not want to change their tyres twice a year Hankook offer the Optimo 4S (H730), an all-season tyre that combines convenience and economy with safety and comfort. The Optimo 4S is designed for small to executive vehicles and is available in 31 dimensions in the UK, from 13 – 17 inches (series 70 to 45) in tread widths of 155 – 235 mm (speed rating T, H and V).

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