The European standard “EN 16662 Road vehicles - Additional grip devices for tires of passenger cars and light commercial vehicles” consists of the following sub-sections published under the same title:
The requirements in this standard apply to all SDCs, regardless of the materials or technology used in their manufacture. If existing standards exist for the specific technology of the device, those standards are intended for use in conjunction with this standard. If no standards exist for the specific technology, this standard applies.
The auxiliary gripping device (SGD) is a device that enhances force transmission, especially in snow and ice.
During the cold winter months, when snow and ice transform roads into dangerous trails, ensuring vehicle traction is not just a convenience, but a necessity. The EN 16662-1 standard, which sets the bar for additional traction devices (SGDs) such as snow socks, over-tire tires, and alternative anti-slip solutions, fulfills a crucial role. This standard addresses the long-standing need for unified safety and performance criteria. For drivers navigating high mountain terrain or urban snowstorms, the EN 16662-1 standard promises safer journeys without the challenges posed by traditional snow chains.
While traditional snow chains are effective, they are cumbersome to install, can damage tires, and are generally prohibited on dry roads due to the risk of abrasion. Alternatives such as textile-based snow socks have emerged as user-friendly options, but their adoption rates vary greatly from country to country.
The EN 16662-1 standard essentially sets strict requirements for SSDs designed for passenger cars (category M1), light commercial vehicles (N1), and trailers (O1, O2). It applies to devices fitted to homologated tires that comply with current EU regulations, including off-road versions.
The devices must not compromise the vehicle's handling, braking, or steering control. They must prevent tire damage during installation and use and include clear warnings against prolonged dry road driving. This standard provides innovative and independent testing methods to verify effectiveness:
These criteria are universally valid and provide a level playing field for non-metallic alternatives. For example, a high-quality snow sock should accommodate the grip of a chain and also be easier to install.
All internal test data for this standard shall be provided by the applicant to the testing organization prior to the application of tests in accordance with EN 16662-1. All tests provided by the applicant shall be verified by the testing organization. All tests shall be performed in appropriate testing laboratories and by technically trained personnel.
As highways grapple with increasingly unpredictable winters, marked by sudden frosts, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions, the demand for reliable vehicle traction solutions is steadily increasing. Building upon the foundation of the EN 16662-1 standard, which defines general safety and performance requirements for additional traction devices (SGDs) such as snow chains, tires, and fabric socks, the EN 16662-2 standard has emerged as a critical complementary standard.
The tests defined in the EN 16662-2 standard are designed for independent laboratories using homologated tires and controlled environments to minimize variables. Dynamic simulations that account for vehicle weight, speed, and surface variability are among the key innovations that ensure the certification is more robust and repeatable.
The procedures detail how to measure acceleration in compacted snow and braking distances on ice using vehicles equipped with skid pads. Tests include ABS intervention and electronic stability control to simulate modern driver assistance systems.
The devices are subjected to accelerated wear cycles of up to 5.000 km, exposing them to abrasion, salt-de-icing agents, and temperature fluctuations between -20 and 10 degrees Celsius. Tensile strength checks ensure there is no tearing during assembly or use.
Timed assembly trials and road dynamics tests confirm no deterioration in steering or tire integrity. Particular attention is paid to dry road limits, and short-distance travel procedures are implemented to prevent overheating.
Proof of the quality of SGDs is provided through initial testing (i.e., according to standard 16662-2), continuous factory production control, and periodic third-party inspection. In this context, a distinction should be made between the requirements set for initial testing and the parameters to be continuously tested.
While EN 16662-1 standard defines the basic criteria for safety and performance, EN 16662-2 standard develops test protocols, and EN 16662-3 standard has become the favorite on the factory floor. This standard strengthens the supply chain, ensuring that every GDS (Gas Station Deployed) installed on Europe's frozen roads is not only certified but also consistently flawless.
The EN 16662-3 standard divides quality control into two interconnected frameworks: internal self-monitoring by manufacturers and independent third-party inspection. Applicable to all types of additional gripping devices—metallic, fabric, or hybrid—this standard integrates seamlessly with parts 1 and 2, which require traceability from raw polymer yarns to packaged kits. This standard requires documented and annually audited systems for risk assessment, nonconformity management, and continuous improvement.
For many years, our organization, with its competent and experienced staff, has been understanding the needs of its customers, providing the advanced testing services they require, and assisting in the establishment, implementation, and improvement of management systems. Within this framework, we also provide testing services in accordance with the "EN 16662 Road vehicles - Additional gripping devices for tires of passenger cars and light commercial vehicles" regulation.
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