A new world record for the fastest car on ice has been set by
Nokian test driver Janne Laitinen, who achieved 206.05 mph on
the Gulf of Bothnia in Oulu, Finland.
The record was broken on a 14-kilometre ice track in freezing
conditions with Nokian Hakkapeliitta 7 studded tires in size
255/35R20 97 T XL.
“Testing at high speeds in demanding conditions forms an
important part of our winter tire development,” says Matti
Morri, technical customer service manager. “Testing our
boundaries can teach us new things, which can then be
reflected in all of our products.”
Extreme speeds emphasize the role of top-quality tires; they
are the vehicle’s only contact point with the driving surface,
according to Morri. When driving at exceptionally high speeds
on slippery ice, the tire must provide maximal grip, excellent
structural durability and handling properties that are in line
with the car’s high power.
The acceleration formula is demanding, and the tires are under
immense pressure at these high speeds. Their diameter can
increase by 15-20 mm. As the air resistance increases, more
traction is needed in order to pick up speed.
The Guinness World Records organization outlines detailed
rules for ice-driving world records. The vehicle takes a
flying start. The ice has to be natural and it may not be
roughed up or treated with any chemicals, and the tires must
be commercially available and approved for road traffic in the
country where the record attempt takes place.
Nokian developed the world’s first winter tire for raw,
subzero conditions back in 1934, according to Morri. Two years
later, it introduced the Hakkapeliitta, designed for northern
winters.
For more information, visit www.nokiatyres.com.
