After celebrating an important occasion for Michelin a few weeks ago, it's time again to celebrate an important occasion for the tire world: 90 years of winter tires. It's also time once again to tell you about Nokian, admittedly a manufacturer that is a little neglected on this blog, but whose green birch-based rubber we've recently covered. Indeed, the Finnish company boasts of having invented the first winter tire in 1934 to withstand the harsh Scandinavian climate. In the midst of winter transition, it's important to remember that what keeps us safe on a daily basis didn't come out of nowhere.
From a curiosity...
Winter tires weren't originally intended for the passenger car market. Nokian's first model, the Kelirengas Weather Tire, was designed specifically for trucks. At first, the aim was to facilitate the transport of goods, but by 1936 the company had realized the full potential of passenger transport. One of the first passenger tire models, the Lumi-Hakkapeliitta, was covered with suction cups to ensure grip! Connoisseurs will also recognize the Hakkapeliitta name, which remains an important line of winter tires for the Finnish company.
It seems that the recipe was a winning one, as other tire companies soon followed suit and began producing their own versions of the winter tire. Little has changed in the fundamental design of the winter tire, but the use of new technologies has obviously brought its share of improvements. These include the introduction of studs in the 1960s, as well as rubber recipes exclusive to each manufacturer and optimized year after year.
...to an obligation!
Today, virtually everyone in the Nordic countries knows the importance of winter tires. Their effectiveness in cold temperatures and on snow and ice is well established. However, there are only a few places where winter tires are mandatory. Here in Canada, this is the case in British Columbia and Quebec.
Another major change over the last nine decades has been the proliferation of all kinds of models, each adapted to a different portfolio and driving style. In 2024, there are no excuses for not owning winter tires as soon as you drive in cold conditions. Even a discount tire could save your life... What a great way to celebrate 90 years of winter tires!
