After nearly a decade of dedicated research and development, Nokian Tyres has finally unveiled its most revolutionary technological achievement since the invention of winter tires in 1934: the Hakkapeliitta 01. This new product introduces the industry’s first mass-producible “on-demand grip” system, which dynamically adjusts the protrusion height of the studs based on real-time temperature changes.

For years, winter tires have faced a harsh trade-off: to achieve traction on ice, drivers must endure road wear and noise; to enjoy quiet comfort, they must sacrifice extreme traction. Nokian’s engineers have resolved this contradiction through in-depth research into the materials beneath the tread.

The core secret lies in “Dual-Effect Stud Technology.” Unlike earlier complex mechanical retractable stud concepts, the Hakkapeliitta 01 utilizes an intelligent polymer matrix within the tire structure. The principle can be broken down at the molecular level as follows:

Reactive Base Layer: Directly beneath the stud flange lies a layer of highly temperature-sensitive adaptive composite material. When temperatures drop to or below freezing, this layer hardens, forming a solid base that physically “pushes” the tungsten carbide studs outward, maximizing their penetration into the ice (i.e., “ON mode”).

Energy-absorption mechanism: When temperatures rise to near freezing or higher, the same composite layer softens. This allows the studs to retract into the tread blocks when the tire comes into contact with dry asphalt. This effectively serves as an impact energy absorption mechanism, preventing the road surface damage typically caused by traditional studded tires.

The system contains no hydraulic or electronic components and relies entirely on passive material-chemical reactions. By precisely adjusting the glass transition temperature of this special composite material, Nokian has created a smart tire that can “sense” its environment without the need for sensors.

The data released by Nokian Tyres at the “White Hell” test center in Ivalo, Finland, is encouraging:

Reduced road wear: By retracting the studs on warm surfaces, the Hakkapeliitta 01 reduces road wear by up to 30% compared to the previous generation. This is a highly attractive selling point for regions that impose taxes on studded tires due to asphalt damage.

Improved traction: Although the studs can retract, grip on ice has actually increased by 10%, and wet grip has improved by 5%. Engineers optimized the orientation of the studs—those in the center of the tread are primarily responsible for braking and acceleration, while the studs on the shoulder are rotated to provide maximum lateral grip during cornering.

Acoustic Engineering: Noise has long been a weak point for studded tires. Thanks to “Silent Drive Technology,” combined with studs that no longer scrape against dry pavement, in-cabin noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels have been reduced by approximately 1 decibel. In the field of acoustics, this marks a significant step forward for studded tires in terms of comfort, bringing them closer to the level of non-studded tires.

In terms of materials, Nokian has adapted to Europe’s increasingly stringent environmental regulations by incorporating bio-based oils (derived from pine resin and rapeseed oil) and natural rubber into the tread compound.

The series is scheduled for official launch in the fall of 2026. Initially, the focus will be on the Nordic home market and North America, particularly those states in Canada and the northern United States where studded tires are permitted and winter road conditions are challenging.