A test was carried out recently, where two Michelin-shod Mercedes C-Class estates, took to an ice rink to show the difference in performance between Standard and Winter tyres.

In the tests, which were filmed, the two cars were used to highlight the differences in braking distance and cornering performance, between the standard-fitment tyres and Michelin’s Primacy Alpin winter tyres.

The braking test was done from 15mph to zero and the results showed that the car fitted with the winter tyres stopped in 7.01, metres compared to the standard-fitment tyre-shod car’s 9.75 metres - a difference of 40%. Just imagine the difference at 70mph.

The cornering test also highlighted big differences as the cars were driven through a corner made up of cones at the same speed. The car on standard tyres suffered from high levels of understeer, as grip was lost and it could not complete the manoeuvre. In comparison, the car fitted with winter tyres drove safely around the corner.

Based on the two previous winters and with some forecasters predicting another harsh one, motorists and especially professional users of the road, are urged to think seriously about fitting winter tyres to ensure they stay safe and mobile over this difficult driving period.