With winter on the way, tire dealers are reminded that Bridgestone has added two new Blizzak models to a consolidated snow tire line.

Released in July, the DM-V1 and LM-60 tires are suited for vehicles ranging from light trucks and SUVs to sports cars and sedans.

“Last winter was brutal for many parts of the United States and Canada,” says John Baratta, president of replacement tire sales. “Preparation is key, and when winter conditions are severe snow and ice tires are a must.”

He goes on to note that “by expanding the Bridgestone Blizzak tire line with these new products, we’re making it possible for more drivers to equip their vehicles with a dedicated winter tire.”

The DM-V1 is available in 46 R-speed-rated sizes ranging from 15 inches to 22 inches and 75-45 series. Replacing the DM-Z3, the DM-V1 features the company’s proprietary Nano-Pro-Tech rubber compound and Multicell technology to disperse surface water and improve grip, according to Baratta. A directional tread pattern and 3-D sipes enhance dry performance and continuous lug design and Center Multi-Z tread grooves in the DM-V1 increase traction in the snow and ice, he says.

Designed in response to unique road conditions in the U.S. and Canada, the LM-60 incorporates continuous lugs and zigzag sipes to improve snow and ice traction, says Baratta. Circumferential grooves channel water out of the tire’s footprint area to resist hydroplaning; a directional tread pattern and 3-D sipes enhance dry performance, he adds.

Available in 34 H-speed rated sizes from 17 inches to 20 inches in the 60-35 series, the LM-60 consolidates existing Blizzak tires into a single H-rated tire line. The consolidation includes the LM-18, LM-22 and LM-25.

“Winter tires offer peace of mind,” Baratta points out. “In fact, in an effort to protect the motoring public, last year the Transport Authority in Quebec (Canada) issued a mandate outlawing the use of anything but winter tires from mid-November through mid-April,” he reports.

“As with any purpose-built winter tire, the Bridgetone Blizzak should only be used during the winter season,” Baratta advises. “During other seasons, drivers should use conventional tires.”

For more information, visit www.bridgestone-firestone.com.