Remember when you were a kid using wooden arrows tipped with little suction cups to shoot at the walls? You thought the house would cave in when you tried to pull those little red cups off the windows and wallpaper. Suction cups are being put to better use these days, says the Car Care Council. They're part of new tire technologies that make driving on ice safer than ever before.

The winter tire market is competitive; that's good for the consumer. Tire companies are willing to invest in technology that will greatly improve their products. Currently, progress has been made over both studded tires and chains, which are permitted only under specific circumstances in some states and are absolutely illegal in others.

Recent technology allows tires to:

      grip the road better,

      disperse water easier,

      and stop the vehicle faster.

One new design is a tread that contains millions of tiny pores in the first layer. These pores act as tiny suction cups, enhancing the tire's grip on icy surfaces. In addition, the edges of these pores bite the snowy, icy surfaces, making it easier to drive and brake.

"This adds to driver confidence," says Car Care Council's VP of Marketing, Rich Davis. "It makes winter driving less of a guessing game and ultimately less stressful, not to mention safer."

There are also winter tire technologies that help disperse the thin layer of water on top of ice. Tiny channels in the tire, as well as special tread designs, create an escape route for water. Instead of causing the car to dangerously hydroplane, where the tire rides up on a film of water, the water moves out from under the tire. This creates better traction and a safer ride with easier handling.

"Make note," adds Davis, "as to whether or not your car is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Some winter tires react differently depending on this variable."

There are dozens of winter driving tips, such as not following too closely or not engaging the cruise control. But safe winter driving starts where the rubber meets the road, or snow, or ice, says the Council. One of the best tips of all is to become familiar with your winter tire options then purchase a good set for your particular vehicle and driving circumstances.

The Car Care Council offers a free brochure to help you prepare your car for winter. Order your copy by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Car Care Council, Department WE1-W, 42 Park Drive, Port Clinton, OH 43452.     

Brought to you as a public service by Car Care Council. Visit the Council's web site: www.carcarecouncil.org.