Bridgestone Launches 'Blizzak Ice Spike' on 1 September, Cutting Ice Braking Distance by 11%

Japanese tyre manufacturer Bridgestone will launch its winter tyre, the 'BLIZZAK ICEPEAK', on 1 September. The BLIZZAK ICEPEAK is the successor to the existing 'BLIZZAK DM-V3'. It features improved braking performance on ice and snow, as well as enhanced wear resistance. In addition, its compatibility with vehicles equipped with electrified powertrains, which have high weight and high torque characteristics, has been improved.

BLIZZAK is a winter tyre brand introduced by Bridgestone in 1988. Since its launch, it has recorded cumulative sales of 300.6 million units to date.

The Bridgestone BLIZZAK ICEPEAK reduces braking distance on icy roads by 11% compared with its predecessor. The ice braking performance test followed the standards of the Japan Automobile Tyre Manufacturers Association (JATMA). The test specification was 225/65R17 XL 106Q, and the test was conducted on a 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid four-wheel-drive model. With an air pressure setting of 33 psi, the distance to a complete stop from 30 km/h was measured. The test results showed a braking distance of 32.36m for the BLIZZAK ICEPEAK, compared with 36.16m for the existing DM-V3.

Wear life (wear resistance) has been improved by 14% compared with the previous product. By removing the through-type pattern in the centre tread block and applying a continuous structure, block rigidity was increased, thereby suppressing tyre deformation. The wear test was conducted by measuring tread wear over a total driving distance of 10,000 km, with front and rear tyre positions swapped every 3,333 km.

The application of a new tread pattern has also improved steering stability on snow. Compared with the predecessor, the tread edge area has been expanded to 18% in the longitudinal direction and 30% in the lateral direction, ensuring grip on snow and handling stability.

Bridgestone will offer the BLIZZAK ICEPEAK in a total of 57 sizes. The line-up ranges from 195/80R15 to 315/35R21, covering everything from compact cars to premium SUVs.