24
September
2015
|
11:43
Europe/Amsterdam

The 3PMSF marking, a symbol of winter excellence

Tyres developed to provide proper performance also in winter conditions allow better grip on snow, reduce fuel consumption and provide excellent traction, due to a specially designed tread. They decrease the braking distance and guarantee better driving conditions, increasing safety. From November 2012, UNECE Regulation 117, to be implemented in the EU through Regulation (EC) 661/2009, requires that for tyres to be used in winter conditions a minimum level of performance on snow (braking and traction) needs to be achieved. If the tyre meets the criteria of an ad hoc performance test, it can be marked with the new three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol is an additional but not mandatory marking.  The “M+S” marking, however, will remain as an allowed marking, even if not linked by law to a minimum threshold in winter conditions. In synthesis, 3PMSF marking: is a sufficient condition for the tyre to fall under the definition of winter tyres; shows that the tyre, designed for snowy and icy road conditions, can be fitted even during periods of driving restrictions during the winter season; demonstrates that tyre’s winter performance has been confirmed through a specific test whose aspects have been defined by international institutions. The 3PMSF marking is a symbol of winter excellence. In order to earn the EU mark of excellent winter performance Pirelli focused on traction by deepening grooves and optimising the tread direction, thereby increasing tyre life and performance even on the coldest days. The Pirelli truck & bus offer includes, alongside a complete range of tyres for critical winter conditions (FW:01 and TW:01) a wide range of sizes with 3PMS marking, in addition to M+S, in most on-road application segments and for fitments of steer, drive and trailer axles. http://www.pirelli.com/tyres/en-ww/truck_bus/magazine/tips-tricks/winter-conditions