The Next Step in Winter Traction, by Nokian

Nokian Tyres presented the world’s first retractable stud system on one of their Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV tires. The system works by extending and retracting the studs from the tires at the push of a button inside the car when the road conditions change. 

Nokian developed this technology to showcase what the future may hold in store for the winter tire. They know a lot about the past, having invented the winter tire back in 1934. Dubbed the Kelirengas, it was designed for use on trucks and buses. Two years later, the engineers adapted the concept for passenger cars, and they named this one the Snow-Hakkapeliitta. That brand is recognized today as one of the best winter tires on the market.

Don’t hope to buy a set of those retractable stud winter tires for the next cold season, tough. Nokian have no plans to put them in production right now, and they currently cost more than the Porsche Cayenne they tested them on…