Hilti (Gt. Britain Ltd) has invested approximately £200,000 on fitting winter tyres to its entire vehicle fleet, which comprises more than 300 cars and vans. As well as improving grip in very cold and damp conditions, the tyres can reduce stopping distances in low temperatures because, unlike compounds for normal driving, they are designed not to harden, giving better traction on snow, slush and ice.

Tests have found that stopping distances can be reduced by 4.8m on wet roads and 11m in icy conditions when travelling at 20mph. All Hilti’s company vehicle drivers are currently having winter tyres fitted to their vehicles, and the standard tyres will be stored at a central location for re-use in the spring. Hilti’s General Manager (GB) and Region Head for Northern Europe, Gareth Lewis, said that the company “is committed to having a vehicle fleet that is professional, productive and as safe as possible for its employees.”