Innovative tread pattern and compound deliver improved control and grip for new Falken Eurowinter HS449 winter tyre

A comprehensive set of ten product improvements has led to the creation of Falken's new Eurowinter HS449 winter tyre. The HS449, its name signifying the ten developments over the previous HS439, incorporates tread, compound and construction changes to improve
wet braking, stability and noise. Following a rigorous testing programme in Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, the tyre will be available in the UK market from September.

Cold weather tyre compounds typically contain silica helping the tyre to be more flexible at low temperatures (below 7˚C). For the Eurowinter HS449, Falken's engineers have increased the proportion of silica to improve braking on wet surfaces by 11 per cent (compared to the predecessor model HS439). A higher concentration of polymer in the tread compound enhances stability, delivering an increase of 13 per cent over the HS439.

Whilst relevant for all cold weather scenarios, Falken has made strides to ensure braking is particularly improved on snow. In such conditions, the 45 per cent increase in tread coverage is designed to improve stopping distances. The novel three-dimensional zig-zag lamellar structure was chosen to boost grip on snow and ice, whilst three dimensional fins optimise even wear of the tyre. Though not a prime consideration for many customers, Falken has lowered tyre noise by incorporating five-phase shifted tread bars.

The Eurowinter HS449, the fifth new tyre introduced by Falken to the UK market this year, will be available from September from all main Falken dealers. Initially 57 different sizes will be available with an additional 32 sizes being offered from January 2013.

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