The Awesome Winter Tires That Are Activated With the Push of a Button

They look like something out of an action movie, but you don't need to wear a cape to use these new studded tires.

Nokian Tyres, a Finnish company, presented "the world's first non-studded winter tire with studs" on the 80th anniversary of their original winter tire.

A close-up shot of the Nokian Tyre with the studs exposed. (Image source: Nokian Tyres)

With a press of a button, the driver can bring out the studs to improve the grip of the tire. When the studs are not needed, they can be retracted back into the tire.

The Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV concept tire uses a unique tread pattern and the studs on all four tires raise and lower at the same time. The body of the stud remains in place, and the moving part is the hard metal pin in the middle of the stud, according to the company's website.

"The unique stud concept may indeed become a reality one day. As the pioneers of the winter tire world, we show that it is possible to combine a studded and non-studded winter tire," said Matti Morri, the company's technical customer service manager.

Combining non-studded and studded tires provides a handy option for drivers; studs are not ideal for dry roads and stable winter conditions, but they can be activated to provide extra traction and safety in icy weather.

When the studs are retracted the tires are suited for dry weather conditions. (Image source: Nokian Tyres)

Check out Nokian's concept video here:

(H/T: Daily Mail)

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