#Japan #Shohei Ohtani #Obihiro #Dunlop #Ice Pro

DUNLOP's New ICE Pro Tire Featuring Shohei Ohtani

DUNLOP has announced the release of its cutting-edge studless winter tire, the ICE Pro, set to hit stores in August 2026. The new tire has garnered attention thanks to its unique performance features, and it is promoted by professional baseball player Shohei Ohtani in a new commercial set to launch on July 1, 2026.

DUNLOP, officially known as Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd., has a rich history of tire innovation, and the ICE Pro serves as the latest evolution in their lineup of winter tires. This model is a new addition to their established WINTER MAXX series, designed specifically for handling the most treacherous icy conditions. DUNLOP’s commitment to safety during winter months prompted the development of a tire that sacrifices some traditional performances to achieve unparalleled ice performance.

The tagline associated with the new commercial features powerful phrases such as “Be a Challenger”, “Push Beyond Limits”, and “Let Your Skills Speak”. Ohtani’s closing message resonates strongly: “Only those who continue to master their craft can become professionals.” This embodies both Ohtani's dedication to baseball and the ICE Pro’s focus on excellence in icy conditions.

Notably, the commercial showcases actual driving scenes captured on ice in Obihiro, Hokkaido, effectively demonstrating the ICE Pro's capabilities under real-life conditions. The promotional effort will begin with online releases in July, followed by television broadcasts in snowy regions starting in September. Fans can look forward to an enticing glimpse of Ohtani’s talents intertwined with DUNLOP’s latest technological advancements.

New Tire Features

The ICE Pro distinguishes itself with its innovative design, specifically engineered to excel on icy surfaces. DUNLOP has dedicated years to improving not just grip but overall performance in winter environments. Recent developments reveal a trade-off strategy: by concentrating on ice performance to an extreme degree, they have set aside traditional considerations towards balance in different performance areas. This led to the creation of a truly unique studless winter tire.

One of the standout attributes of the ICE Pro is its “Soft yet Firm” composition, enabled through the use of a newly formulated “Water-Able Rubber.” Previous DUNLOP winter tires effectively utilized drainage to enhance grip. However, the ICE Pro focuses on achieving maximum adherence through sustained flexibility at low temperatures. By incorporating a specific ingredient called “Low-Temperature Grip Agent,” this new rubber composition allows for continuous deformation under pressure, resulting in increased adherence and traction.

DUNLOP emphasizes that improving tire performance requires thoughtful innovation. The ICE Pro features a newly designed profile to maximize contact patch size and a dramatically increased number of sipes in the tread pattern. This enhancement heightens water drainage capability and optimizes the tire’s edge effects, ensuring superior performance on icy roads.

The official DUNLOP website states, “ICE Pro is engineered to surpass the limitations of traditional winter tires.” DUNLOP aims to unite its branding under a cohesive identity moving forward. With the motto of “TAKING YOU BEYOND,” DUNLOP aspires to support those who strive to excel beyond their current limits, fostering a sense of security and inspiration in their tire users.

Interview Insights

An interview with Ohtani provides additional insight into the ICE Pro. He expressed, “I’ve heard the new tire is specifically focused on ice performance. Growing up in Iwate, I know all too well the dangers of winter roads. I am eager to put this tire to the test!” His background and experience in icy conditions enhance the credibility and relevance of the tire’s unique capabilities.

With over 40 years of commitment to winter safety, DUNLOP’s focus on the ICE Pro signifies a landmark shift towards prioritizing ice performance to enhance driver security during the colder months. As we approach its launch, excitement builds around what promises to be an essential innovation for winter driving enthusiasts.