As European countries tighten regulations such as classification standards for winter tires, Nexen Tire is accelerating improvements in product performance. The company said it aims to proactively respond to regulations and lay the groundwork for growth in Europe.
According to the tire industry on the 10th, Nexen Tire is affixing the 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) mark to winter and all-season tires sold in Europe. The 3PMSF certification is granted only after passing an official performance verification based on International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards. It is also used as an indicator that proves driving stability by evaluating braking and acceleration performance on winter roads.
Nexen Tire expanded 3PMSF certification because European countries are tightening tire classification standards. Germany banned the operation of tires marked only with M+S (Mud & Snow) starting in Oct. last year, and Sweden and Finland also imposed bans in Nov. the same year, strengthening regulations. M+S is a declarative step that is affixed when a manufacturer meets its own performance standards. In effect, tires must have the 3PMSF mark to be sold.
Currently, all winter and all-season tires that Nexen Tire sells on the market carry the 3PMSF certification mark. The recently launched WINGUARD Sport 3 in Europe also bears the mark; the product features improved braking and stability compared with its predecessor. The all-weather tire N'BLUE 4Season 2 is continuously expanding fitment sizes to meet growing demand.
As a result, this year winter tires account for about 20%–30% of Nexen Tire's sales in Europe. The share of all-season tires has also increased to about 20%. To raise the sales ratio of winter and all-season tires, Nexen Tire is pushing to establish a dedicated test center within the UTA proving ground in Ivalo, northern Finland.
Nexen Tire is also steadily expanding its product lineup. In preparation for Euro 7, which will regulate even tire dust, the company is developing a high-wear-resistant compound to improve wear levels. Nexen Tire has secured technology to apply eco-friendly raw materials and is also reviewing the introduction of a digital product passport. It is expanding research to develop and broaden the use of eco-friendly raw materials.
A Nexen Tire official said, "We will continue to pursue steady growth based on technological innovation and agile market responsiveness."