Nokian: Winter car tyres with retractable studs

For winters that are extremely cold, rather than simply exceptionally wet, tyre company Nokian is developing retractable tyre studs.

In icy conditions, the driver pushes a button on the dashboard that causes studs to rise up from the surface of the tyre. When the studs are not needed, they can be retracted back into the tyre.

Winter tyres

Once you’ve tried to fit snow chains with cold hands, you understand why there is such a thriving trade in winter tyres on the continent.

It’s unusual for British motorists to invest in winter tyres, which may be because they regard the assume they are expensive and intended only for snow. The reality is that the modern winter tyre outperforms summer tyres on wet and uneven roads – in fact, anytime the temperature drops below around 6 degrees Celsius.

In general, they cost no more than summer tyres. They can be used all year round, but wear out more quickly when used in the summer months.