Bridgestone's formula for winter driving

ERJ staff report (TP)

Cambridge, UK − Bridgestone has turned to an ex-Formula 1 driver in an attempt to provide the best possible winter driving advice to motorists, reported Cambridge News.

With a plummet in temperatures expected to continue throughout December, former Jordan racer Stefano Modena is offering some essential tips to ensure greater safety on the roads.

Modena, who is now Bridgestone’s tire development expert and test driver, said: “Driving in winter conditions is something everyone must prepare for. It is not only about having the right tires; the driver’s behaviour is also essential in these conditions as he or she needs to understand and adapt to different winter hazards.

“It is therefore essential to not only prepare our vehicle, but also ourselves when the weather gets cold.”

Modena says:

Make the switch. Winter tires offer dramatically improved safety and performance in winter conditions. So when temperatures start to drop, it’s time to make the switch from summer to winter tires.

Check your grip. Because road conditions can change quickly and drastically, it’s important to regularly test how much traction you can count on in case you have to brake or swerve suddenly. Gently apply the brake every now and again and slow down, if needed, in response to changing road conditions.

Turn in stages. When cornering on snow or icy surfaces, break down the manoeuvre into smaller steps. Brake first, in a straight line, before making the turn. And accelerate gradually after straightening back up. That way, you use all the available grip to make the turn.

Forget the cruise control. In wet or icy conditions, you constantly need to adapt your speed to the conditions. Switch off the cruise control and maintain manual control of acceleration and deceleration at all times.

If in doubt, don’t drive. If the weather looks too treacherous, leave the car at home. Nothing should be more important than your safety and that of your loved ones.

Both internal and independent testing has proven that the braking distance of summer tires can be almost three times longer than that of winter tires on snow. But even in less extreme conditions, winter tires offer greatly enhanced response, precision and control than their summer counterparts.

Winter tires are made from compound materials that remain soft and pliable at colder temperatures and tread designs for added grip on ice and snow.

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Full story from Cambridge News