As the winter season approaches, the importance of choosing the right tyres for your vehicle cannot be overstated, especially for those living or driving in the North Eastern and Himalayan states of India, where harsh winter conditions are common.

Winter tyres, in particular, stand out in these regions due to their unique features. In this blog, we'll explore how winter tyres differ from other types of tyres, outlining their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Difference between winter tyres and normal tyres:

There are a few visual cues you can follow to identify winter tyres.

Tread Design: Winter tyres have deep, aggressive tread patterns with numerous sipes (tiny slits) that grip ice and snow effectively.

Rubber Compound: They are made from a special rubber compound that remains flexible in cold temperatures, ensuring excellent traction.

Pros and cons of winter tyres:

There is not much to state here, as is obvious by their construction and tread design. Still here is a brief overview of advantages and disadvantages of winter tyres.

Pros:

• Exceptional grip on snow and ice

• Improved braking performance on snowy roads, and

• Enhanced handling in freezing conditions where roads are covered by hard icy layers

Cons:

• Reduced fuel efficiency due to heavier construction

• Faster wear on dry, warmer roads

How winter tyres work together with ABS and EBD for safer rides?

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is a safety feature that prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, which can cause skidding and loss of control. When the ABS sensors detect wheel lock-up, it modulates brake pressure rapidly, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.

EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) is a technology that works in conjunction with ABS to distribute braking force optimally to each wheel.

How these systems work together?

When driving with winter tyres on icy or snowy roads, the enhanced traction of these tyres provides better grip during acceleration, turning, and braking. If sudden braking is necessary, the ABS system prevents wheel lock-up, allowing the vehicle to stop in a shorter distance while maintaining steering control.

EBD complements ABS by ensuring that braking force is distributed optimally among all wheels, maximizing stability and control during braking on slippery surfaces.

At what temperature should you switch to winter tyres?

The ideal time to switch to winter tyres depends on several factors, including the climate in your region, local regulations, and your personal preferences for safety. However, a common rule of thumb is to install winter tyres when the temperature consistently drops below 45°F (7°C).

Do all-wheel drives and SUVs with traction control need winter tyres?

Yes, definitely. All-wheel drive systems and SUVs with traction control systems do not create additional traction, they simply maximise the traction you have got. So, having a set of winter tyres will help enhance drivability and safety if you live in a cold region or regularly drive up in the Himalayan foothills for treks.

Need tyres for winter?

Vredestein now offers high-performance car and SUV tyres for season specific driving in India. Check out the available models at our authorised online shop here.