What do winter tyres do?
Winter tyres are designed to be fitted to a car in winter, as they help the car to maximise grip when driving in weather below 7 degrees Celsius, or on roads covered with snow and ice.
Winters tyres are made from a rubber compound that stays softer in low temperatures. The tread also features small jagged slits, called sipes, which increase the tyre's surface area on the road, improving traction. A pattern of deeper tread also displaces water better and also collects snow, both of which help also improve traction.
Winter tyres are not recommended in warmer conditions as they create too much grip, making the car less fuel efficient.
