Magazine for the professional tire industry
Issue link: https://mtd.epubxp.com/i/114173
Winter tires handle well is truly an art that we will continue to master. And balancing these grip and handling demands with the requirements of low rolling resistance and low road wear is our ongoing focus." Ewing, Pirelli: "Winter tire technology is continuing to progress on the same course it has been heading, ofering a complete solution without compromises for the cold weather season: A tire ofering a smooth ride, handling, braking and snow and ice performance during the complete winter season." 'Te tire industry has not done a great job in educating consumers on the value of winter tires.' The top-rated tire in the 2012 "Consumer Reports" winter tire test was the Michelin X-Ice Xi3. Stephen Ewing, Pirelli Tire North America Niknam, Toyo: "We think winter tire technology is moving more and more toward fewer compromises between winter performance, dry performance and wear. Tire companies are also working toward a winter tire that has more performance capabilities in other seasons. In order to achieve this goal, patern and tread compound technology are the focus." ■ Pirelli's Winter 210 Sottozero Serie II fnished fourth in the "Consumer Reports" test. And the winner is... 'Consumer Reports' ranks Michelin No. 1 (and No. 2) The compound of an all-season tire starts to harden at 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius). Winter tire compounding takes that into account, and remains fexible before rain turns to snow and after. 36 Every year, "Consumer Reports" runs the results of one (or more) of its tire tests in its November issue. In 2012, the magazine tested a total of 78 tires in four categories, including the winter tire category. The top-rated tire was the Michelin X-Ice Xi3, followed closely by the Michelin X-Ice Xi2. Also recommended by "Consumer Reports" were the Hankook Winter I*cept Evo, Pirelli Winter 210 Sottozero Serie II, Uniroyal Tiger Paw Ice & Snow II and the Bridgestone Blizzak WS70. This year, the magazine will test 41 models of ultra-high performance all-season and summer tires for sporty and high-end touring cars. "CR" also will include evaluations of nine performance winter tires. MTD March 2013