Nokian showcases the new Powerproof 2 summer tyre [Video]

Tyre.Media recently attended Nokian Tyres launch of its all-new Powerproof 2 next-generation summer tyre at the Hakka Ring near Madrid, Spain taking a series of press tests on the tyre plus a one-on-one presentation on Nokian’s latest introduction to their range from Tommi Alhola, Senior Vice President PCT Central Europe.

The Powerproof 2 has been specially designed and produced incorporating ultra-high performance, features and benefits positioning the tyre in both high performance and ultra-high performance, market segments in the  occasional unpredictable summer conditions of Europe.

The tyre delivers a series of innovative features including precise control, confident grip and a refined driving experience particularly challenging weather and road conditions. Whilst combining high-speed handling with ‘best-in-class wet safety ensuring uncompromising protection without sacrificing the drive experience.

Tommi Alhola, Senior Vice President, Passenger Car Tyres Central Europe at Nokian Tyres. Fot. Tyre.Media

Specific Handing Performance

The new Nokian Powerproof 2 promises to be a perfect fitment for passenger cars, SUV’s, Crossovers and EV models delivering the demanding expectations of European drivers when it comes to specific handling, reassuring grip and outstanding wet braking performance.

The Powerproof 2 will initially be available in an extensive option of 76 products covering a wide choice of sizes from 16 up to 21 inches in V, W and Y speed ratings by te summer of 2026.

Tommi also explained than as well as all these impressive features, the Nokian Powerproof 2 the tyre has another innovative credential to the tyre’s performance credibility – a Dual Safety Concept that has the ability to combine two key performance areas. Accurate speed handling and reliable wet safety thanks to three integrated technologies, a twin force tread design incorporating two precisely engineered tread zones to guarantee dynamic dry handling and reliable wet grip.

Whilst a Hydro Grip Compound provides strong traction and braking performance on wet roads but maintain durability and efficiency. Also, when it comes to the structural level the Power Lock Core ensures high-speed stability through a rigid internal foundation that keeps the tyre self-controlled under pressure. Forming a unique safety concept that adaps to real-world driving performance.

More than just a Summer Tyre

Samu Lepistö, Development Manager at Nokian Tyres adds, “By combining the advanced tread design, cutting-edge compound technology and a reinforced structure, we deliver more than just performance, we deliver peace of mind. Nokian Tyres Powerproof 2 is a summer tyre you can rely on when dry conditions turn into dramatic downpour as it’s professionally engineered for drivers who expect control, demand precision, and absolutely no compromise on safety”,

Additional benefits include a carefully optimised tread pattern and recently developed cap and base compounds which help dampen road vibrations and minimise rolling noise. Plus, the Twin Force Tread design offers confident handling, durable performance, and strong wet safety with its two functional zones specifically engineered to provide precise dry handling and enhanced grip in wet conditions.

Nokian Powerproof 2

The pattern is noise-optimized, featuring narrow shoulder grooves, which help reduce road noise for a quieter, more comfortable ride. Rounded ribs and shoulder blocks distribute pressure evenly across the tyre’s contact patch, improving braking performance and extending tyre life. Whilst the wide centre ribs and stiff shoulder blocks enhance stability and precision in dry conditions, especially during high-speed cornering. Finally deep, continuous longitudinal grooves efficiently store and channel water away from the tread, improving wet grip and reducing the risk of aquaplaning.

The new Hydro Grip Compound’s wear-resistant formulation ensures long-lasting durability also optimized rolling resistance helps improve energy efficiency without compromising safety or grip.

Nokian Tyres Powerproof 2 also presents a significant step forward in wear resistance and excellent mileage return and abrasion resistance has been achieved through the combined effect of the wear-resistant compound, optimized tread pattern, and carefully engineered mould shape and these improvements allow the tyre to last longer, offering more kilometers without sacrificing performance.

Additionally, deeper center grooves contribute towards extended tyre life by helping maintain consistent performance and durability over time. What makes Nokian Tyres Powerproof 2 stand out even further is its exceptionally low rolling resistance, a great achievement in the UHP category. This combination of long-lasting wear and fuel efficiency results in a lower total cost of ownership, making it a smart and sustainable choice for drivers who demand both top-tier performance and everyday economy. Most importantly, these gains have been made without compromising the precise handling, high-speed stability, or confident grip expected from a true ultra-high performance tyre.

The new tyre also features Nokian Tyres’ exclusive Aramid Strong Sidewalls in sizes 17 inches and above to further enhance durability, allowing the tyre to withstand everyday driving impacts. The sidewall structure is reinforced with exceptionally strong aramid fibres, giving extra protection against sudden impacts and cuts that could otherwise easily interrupt a trip. 

Hakka Ring track in Santa Cruz de la Zarza. Fot. Tyre.Media

Special attention has also been given to sound insulation to enhance driving comfort and the Nokian Tyres SilentDrive™ Technology efficiently absorbs these peaks, resulting in lower interior noise and a more relaxed, less fatiguing ride. The technology will be available in a limited selection of Nokian Tyres Powerproof 2 sizes.

Tommi also emphasised that all Nokian Tyres products undergo rigorous testing in both controlled and real-world conditions to ensure top-tier safety, durability, and performance. With high-speed and wet performance testing being carried out at Nokian Tyres’ own test centres in Finland and Spain, including the Hakka Ring in Santa Cruz de la Zarza. Additional performance testing is conducted across Spain, Finland, and Germany to ensure excellent wear resistance and real-world reliability, the development process includes professional taxi testing, as well as convoy testing with every test designed to push the tire to its limits, so drivers never have to.

Bench-Test approval

In addition to internal testing, Nokian Tyres Powerproof 2 was tested by the independent TÜV SÜD organization in a comprehensive Benchmark Test affirming its standing as a premium tire choice. Plus, earlier this year, TÜV SÜD subjected Powerproof 2 to rigorous comparative evaluations against four leading competitors, examining critical criteria such as braking and handling on wet and dry surfaces. Meeting TÜV SÜD’s demanding benchmark standards confirms the tyre stands firmly among the leading performers in its class. This external verification complements Nokian Tyres’ own extensive internal testing and provides transparent, third-party proof of the tire’s quality and reliability.

Nokian Tyres Powerproof 2 is a next-generation premium summer tyre. Fot. Tyre.Media

Nokian Tyres has designed and tested tyres with electric cars for over ten years and provide an Electric Fit™ symbol for its Nokian Tyres® branded premium tires. The symbol found on the sidewall indicates that Nokian Tyres® tires can be equally fitted on internal combustion engines and electric cars providing safe and high-quality product performance regardless of the car’s powertrain.

There, is no doubt that the summer tire segment remains the largest in Central and Southern Europe, accounting for 38.9% of all tyres sold in this sector and the Nokian Powerproof 2 looks set to have an instant impact!