Since 1972 Mn/DOT has consistently maintained a policy of strongly opposing reintroduction of studded tires. The general public mirrors that attitude, since the subject is substantially silent countrywide. The public does demand the expeditious reestablishment of bare pavement following a snow or ice storm. Minnesota road agencies perform that function very well.
As we predicted in the early 1970/s, road users took advantage of the traction aspects under their control by purchasing vehicles with limited slip differentials, four-wheel drive and front wheel drive, and high performance radial tires with modern rubber compounds and tread design. The radials are the overwhelming choice of emergency vehicle owners since they provide superior performance during most road surface conditions year around.
