Michelin X-Ice Xi3. FEATURES AND BENEFITS: Winter weather traction; Hydroplaning resistance; High speed durability; Fuel efficiency; Longer lasting tread life; Snow platform indicators; . OVERVIEW: The Michelin X-Ice Xi3 is a performance, winter weather tire manufactured for passenger vehicles and SUVs. It also has some touring sizes as well.The tire's first-rate winter weather traction is the result of the combination of the Cross Z Sipes and the Flex-Ice tire compound. The sipes grip the road, even in the harshest winter conditions, while the tire compound provides excellent traction in cold dry, wet and snowy weather. The better road gripping ability enables the tire to receive the tire industry's three mountain peak and snowflake symbol, which is reserved for models capable of conquering the most severe winter weather. The tire also prevents hydroplaning situations with the micro-pumps and the tread grooves that disperse water and slush from below the tire footprint. The safer traction and better hydroplaning resistance increase the winter weather performing ability.The tire was manufactured with Michelin's Total Performance Technology. This technology combines driving safety, high speed durability and great fuel efficiency, while not losing the tire's exceptional performing capability. The internal structure is reinforced with a twin steel belt construction that is spirally wound with nylon cords for enhanced durability. As a result, the tire maintains its optimal shape under the driving pressure affecting it and does not deform. As the tire keeps its shape against the driving forces putting pressure on it, it is capable of performing to its highest capability.The tire's special Flex-Ice compound provides great winter weather traction, even on snow and ice covered roads. This improved traction lowers the rolling resistance as the driving pressure is eased off of the tire. The reduced rolling resistance, in turn, decreases the vehicle's fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, making the tire more environmentally friendly and fuel efficient. The lessened rolling resistance also slows down the tread wear rate. This, along with the unique contact patch, extends the tread life. The Max Touch Construction increases the tread life by preventing irregular wear from forming on the tread area. This is achieved with the equal distribution of the driving pressure across the tread surface. In the end the tire becomes more cost efficient as it offers a longer lasting usability.The X-Ice Xi3's tread design features snow platform indicators that show when the tire is about to lose its exceptional winter weather compound. When the tire has about 50% of tread life remaining on it the snow platform indicators notify the driver that the Flex-Ice compound is about to be worn out, which lowers the tire's winter weather traction afterwards. Manufacturers recommend changing tires every 10 years. As long as tires are properly stored before they are sold, the year of their manufacture will not shorten their service life.