Nokian’s innovative Hakkapeliitta 01 tires bring retractable studs to winter roads

Nokian Tires has been working on perfecting their winter tires for a long time, and what comes next is a real game changer for drivers dealing with unpredictable road conditions: the Hakkapeliitta 01 is the first studded tire that can adjust its studs itself, all without the need for buttons or electronics, just a clever piece of material science that responds to temperature changes.

The engineers behind this designed the technology around a certain base layer in the tire that hardens and begins to push the studs out when temperatures drop below freezing. This gives them a firm grip on the ice. Warmer air has the opposite effect and the studs slide back in, resulting in smoother interaction on dry or wet roads. The transition happens quickly enough to be useful once you reach a stretch of road that goes from snow-covered to clear asphalt in an instant.

The studs are 10.5mm long and use the same tungsten carbide tips as the Hakkapeliitta 10. Where they are placed on the tread is important; the center studs are aligned for powerful acceleration and braking, while the studs on the shoulders are oriented just right for optimal steering. Each tire features approximately 220 studs, which are secured with additional layers to prevent them from sliding and to keep them in place if necessary.
The benefits are obvious: up to 10% better traction on ice than the Hakkapeliitta 10.5% better grip on wet surfaces and up to 30% less wear on the road because the studs remain tucked away when not in use. Plus, the ride is quieter, with noise levels down one decibel at highway speeds, a small but welcome improvement. The tread compound is also more environmentally friendly, with a blend of natural rubber, bioresins and oils from pine and rapeseed oil, ensuring it is still robust while being environmentally conscious.

Aramid fibers provide extra strength to the sidewalls, where impacts are common, and the tire carries both the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake insignia (for winter tires that can really handle the deep stuff) and Ice Grip accreditation. Even if studded tires are not allowed in their area, residents can still use them if they are available.

Nokian Tires plans to launch in the key Nordic and North American regions in autumn 2026. The range is also quite extensive, with 124 sizes ranging from 14 to 22 inches, suitable for almost any passenger car, crossover or SUV, while production still takes place in Nokia, Finland.
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