A long-time pioneer in "green" tires, according to business development manager Marc Bujold, in 2005 Nokian was the first tire manufacturer to completely eliminate high-aromatic oils from its production processes, he says. It doesn't use any carcinogenic chemicals or chemicals classified as toxic; a Birch Leaf insignia on the sidewall signifies the company's commitment.
"Feedback from customers about eNTYRE has been very positive," says Bujold. "In fact, these new sizes were requested by our dealers. With the addition of these sizes, we now cover the vast majority of passenger vehicles on the road today," he adds.
Molds are in process and the first North American deliveries of the new sizes are expected to arrive in early November."Like the 26 existing sizes, these new sizes offer the same great features," says Bujold. "The development concept was to provide drivers with ultimate safety, driving comfort and performance, in an environmentally friendly ‘green' tire."
He goes to say that the premium all-season tire delivers excellent wet grip, a smooth and quiet ride, long-wearing tread life and great handling properties. "The eNTYRE provides superior winter grip when compared to other premium all-season tires. The tires' low rolling resistance also provides better gas mileage."
Other innovations include Cooling Edge technology, which provides better cooling to the hottest part of the tire, improving both handling and durability; 3D sipes, for improved handling on dry roads and even tire wear; and Polished Grooves, which help expel water and snow from the tire's surface, he says.
Headquartered in Helsinki, Finland with a North American operation based in Colchester, Vt., Nokian Tyres, Inc. is the only tire manufacturer that focuses mainly on customer needs in northern climates, according to Bujold. It supplies tires for cars, trucks and special heavy machinery in areas that typically present challenging tire performance issues – snow, forests and overall harsh driving conditions in every season.
The company also owns the Vianor tire chain and has more than 600 outlets in 19 countries. As of last year, Nokian had 3,300 employees and sales of about 798.5 million Euros.
For more information, visit www.nokiantyres.com.
