The newest member of the Nokian summer tyres family is the Nokian Z G2, a tyre developed to be high-performance, safe and durable. Designed for fast driving, the Nokian Z G2 clearly outperforms its competitors in demanding, difficult conditions. It is not afraid of even heavy temperature fluctuations or rain. Its driving response is precise, yet pleasant and quiet. The Nokian Z G2 is designed for sporty cars and fast driving and belongs to the UHP category, the top class of passenger car tyres. The size range comprises nearly xx variants in the speed categories W (270 km/h) and Y (300 km/h), ranging from 16” all the way up to 20”. The product will be available for retail sales in Central Europe in the spring of 2008. The Nokian Z G2 has been developed and tested on fast European tracks, as well as on rough-surfaced roads, over several years. Special attention was paid to wet grip and the prevention of aquaplaning. Wear resistance was developed by means of thorough laboratory testing and driving hard durability tests on harsh asphalt surfaces. Nanotechnology and multi-layer structure: excellent wet grip, precise driving response The Nokian Z G2 is targeted at demanding consumers, and its top-of-the-range performance has been achieved with the help of the latest development and production technology. The key innovations that make the Nokian Z G2 unique are the multi-layer surface structure, the nanosilica compound and new surface geometry. These new innovations form the so-called Nokian Cool Zone Concept,” says Product Manager Petri Niemi. The lowest layer in the multi-layer surface structure is a thin rubber layer that reduces heat emission and rolling resistance. The middle layer’s compound features the latest nanotechnology. The flexible nanosilica compound of the intermediate layer provides quicker response to steering movements than traditional rubber compounds, resulting in sensitive and precise contact with the road. Despite its elasticity, the new nanosilica compound strengthens the tyre structure. The excellent stability is particularly emphasised in cyclic driving with quick, recurring lane changes and dodging needs. The outer layer of the Nokian Z G2 features a new silica compound, Nokian Cool UHP Silica, which ensures excellent wet grip in all temperatures. The new compound also efficiently dampens noise generated when driving on asphalt – the tyre is quiet and pleasant to drive. New tyre geometry: excellent handling properties The revamped tread design of the Nokian Z G2 enhances driving stability, especially on corners, when changing lanes and dodging. It makes the Nokian Z G2 safe and precise to handle, even in extreme situations. The new surface geometry reduces harmful heat emission, particularly at high speeds. In terms of appearance, the Nokian Z G2 has an asymmetric inside-outside tread pattern. The open centre tread design has proven to be the best technical solution, especially in high-speed tyres. The sturdy outer shoulder area of the Nokian Z G2 is combined with block patterns. The longitudinal rib helps achieve a sturdy structure as the blocks cannot move when driving, instead, they support each other. The strong structure and three longitudinal centre ribs ensure the excellent handling properties of the Nokian Z G2. The inner shoulder design facilitates the removal of water from the road surface and, consequently, reduces the risk of aquaplaning. The polished longitudinal grooves also speed up the removal of water from between the tyre and road. Furthermore, the polished grooves give the tyre a stylish, well-finished look. More safety, carefree and comfortable driving The Driving Safety Indicator (DSI) on the centre rib indicates the depth of the main grooves. Safe driving in the rain requires good tyre condition. The main grooves must be at least 4 mm deep in order to be able to avoid aquaplaning. The sidewall has an info field for pressure recommendations. The correct tyre pressure improves car handling, and reduces tyre damage and fuel consumption. The Nokian Z G2 is completely free of any harmful high-aromatic oils. Like all products manufactured in Nokian Tyres’ plants, the Nokian Z G2 is made using purified oils and with minimal environmental impacts.