From Finland’s forests to the world: Nokian launches MPT Agile 2

Nokian Heavy Tyres has introduced a successor to the Nokian MPT Agile, and it says this new-generation tyre offers “several improvements over the original.” The Nokian MPT Agile 2 takes up its predecessor’s remit of offering manoeuvrability, grip and reliability both on and off the road and at any speed; the tyre is aimed at defence and peacekeeping applications, rescue vehicles and off-road trucks.

Teppo Siltanen, product manager at Nokian Heavy Tyres, comments that “the key for a good off-road vehicle tyre is versatility.” He notes that such tyres must work as well on the road as they do on soft terrain. “Or anywhere the job at hand takes you,” he adds.

As the name implies, another factor influencing the Nokian MPT Agile 2’s design was manoeuvrability. Military applications, firefighting and other rescue operations all require precise steering, even at high speeds. “We are very pleased with the steering response and stability Nokian MPT Agile 2 offers,” Siltanen shares. “It is also quiet and comfortable to drive on road.”

Larger footprint, improved operating life

Siltanen says the original Nokian MPT Agile has “proven its worth many times over,” yet he adds that “through extensive product development and rigorous field tests we managed to make a better tyre.”

The most significant change is the symmetrical tread pattern; Nokian says this configuration “performs equally well regardless of the tyres’ rotational direction.” The manufacturer also reports that the new design “results in improved vertical and lateral grip on soft surfaces, better self-cleaning properties as well as more winter grip.” The sidewalls on the new-generation tyre also feature a camouflage pattern.

“The new design has larger footprint than the previous version, resulting in better flotation and smaller surface pressure – all desirable qualities on a soft terrain,” says Siltanen. “There is also less heat build-up improving the tyre operating life.”

An important aspect for extreme winter conditions is the ability to use studs. Nokian MPT Agile 2 comes with pre-marked stud locations.

Military and civilian use

The Nokian MPT Agile 2 is the latest product derived Nokian Heavy Tyres’ decades-old collaboration with Finland’s defence forces on the development of high mobility all-terrain tyres, however Nokian expects it will find friends outside military circles.

“Besides defence and peacekeeping applications, the tyre lends itself to many civilian uses as well,” shares Siltanen explains. “Heavy rescue vehicles such as airport fire engines, off-road trucks and other all-terrain vehicles can all benefit from the grip, reliability and good handling offered by Nokian MPT Agile 2.”

Nordic conditions provide plenty of challenges for tyres – ranging from snow and ice to mud, sharp rocks and other obstacles. The Finnish tyre maker believes the conditions encountered in its homeland have helped it create an all-new product that has “many uses worldwide.” Siltanen concludes: “As we often say, if the tyre works in Finnish forests, it works anywhere.”