A recent survey conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Goodyear has highlighted that drivers using premium winter tyres report significantly higher confidence and comfort while driving in winter conditions compared to those using non-premium alternatives. According to the report, 65% of drivers with premium winter tyres feel confident on icy roads, as opposed to just 54% of those with tyres from non-premium brands.
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The findings emphasise the importance of choosing the right tyres for winter, particularly for younger drivers. Goodyear notes that those who are most passionate about driving, often the younger demographic, are also more inclined to consider switching to winter tyres to enhance their driving potential in adverse weather.
The study found that while winter tyre usage remains steady across age groups, younger drivers, especially those under 35, are twice as likely to consider them than those aged over 45. However, misconceptions about winter tyres still exist, with nearly three in ten younger drivers hesitant to make the switch. Among the most common reasons cited are concerns about the inconvenience of changing tyres and the belief that milder winters render winter tyres unnecessary.
Despite a projected decline in winter tyre sales of approximately 1.6% per year due to evolving all-season tyre technology, winter tyres are still considered the optimal choice for many European drivers. Goodyear’s Sonia Leneveu, Director Marketing Consumer Europe, stated, “The trends in the data show that drivers who already use premium winter tyres trust them to perform best in the coldest months, while the interest in changing to winter tyres amongst drivers who have a passion for driving and winter experiences is high. Goodyear’s award-winning winter tyre range answers the needs of these drivers and the new sizes of our UltraGrip Performance 3 make it the right choice for even more drivers this winter.”
With the colder months fast approaching, Goodyear is offering some essential tips to prepare for winter driving:
Check Local Regulations: In some regions, winter tyres are required by law. Goodyear’s winter driving guide provides an overview of the rules across Europe, but drivers should check with local authorities for the most up-to-date information.
Choose the Right Tyres: Look for tyres marked with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) logo, which indicates compliance with winter performance standards.
Fit Tyres Early: Don’t wait for the first snowfall. Goodyear suggests switching to winter tyres as soon as temperatures consistently drop below 7ºC.
Inspect Tyres Regularly: Cold weather affects tyre pressure. Ensure your tyres are inflated to the recommended level and check the tread depth to maintain optimal grip.
Prepare Your Vehicle: Clear snow and ice from all windows, headlights, and the roof of your car. Check washer fluid levels and consider winter-specific fluid to prevent freezing.
Drive with Care: Allow extra distance between your vehicle and others, especially on icy roads where stopping distances are significantly longer.
Goodyear’s UltraGrip Performance 3, now available in nearly 40 new sizes for larger rims, offers advanced features like Snow Protect and Wet Grip+ Technology. These innovations provide increased grip in snow and enhanced performance in wet conditions, ensuring safer, more confident driving.
For drivers ready to invest in premium winter tyres, Goodyear’s range also includes options like the UltraGrip Ice 3 for non-studded winter driving and the UltraGrip Arctic 2, designed specifically for Nordic conditions.
