Bridgestone is adding two new snow tires, the DM-V1 and LM-60, to consolidate its Blizzak tire line.
They fit vehicles ranging from light trucks and SUVs to sports cars and sedans.
“Last winter was brutal for many parts of the United States and Canada,” says John Baratta, president of replacement tire sales at the company’s U.S. and Canada consumer tire sales division.
“Preparation is key, and when winter conditions are severe, snow and ice tires are a must,” he points out. “By expanding the Bridgestone Blizzak tire line with these new products, we’re making it possible for more drivers to equip their vehicles with a dedicated winter tire.”
The DM-V1 will be available in 46 R-rated sizes ranging from 15 to 22 inches in the 75-45 series.
Replacing the DM-Z3, the DM-V1 features Bridgestone’s proprietary Nano-Pro-Tech rubber compound and Multicell technology to disperse surface water and improve grip according to Baratta. “A directional tread pattern and 3-D sipes enhance dry performance and continuous lug design, and Center Multi-Z tread grooves in the DM-V1 increase traction in the snow and ice,” he says
Designed in response to unique winter conditions found in the U.S. and Canada, the LM-60 incorporates continuous lugs and zigzag sipes to improve snow and ice traction, Baratta reports. Circumferential grooves channel water out of the tire’s footprint area to resist hydroplaning while a directional tread pattern and 3-D sipes enhance dry performance, he adds.
Available in 34 H-rated sizes from 17 to 20 inches in the 60-35 series, the LM-60 consolidates existing Blizzak tires into one H-rated tire line that includes the LM-18, LM-22 and LM-25.
“Winter tires offer peace of mind,” Baratta explains. “In fact, in an effort to protect the motoring public, last year the Transport Authority in Quebec issued a mandate outlawing the use of anything but winter tires from mid-November through mid-April.”
He also notes that “as with any purpose-built winter tire, the Bridgetone Blizzak should only be used during the winter season. During other seasons, drivers should use conventional tires.”
For more information, visit www.bridgestone-firestone.com.
