Bridgestone Americas Inc. says its Blizzak WS80 winter tire for passenger cars and minivans features proprietary hydrophilic (water-loving) coating that allows the tire's multi-cell compound to attract water, drawing it away from the road to combat slippage on ice. Bite particles in the multi-cell compound act as microscopic studs for road grip and improved braking on ice. A new tread pattern has 20% more block edges and higher edge/block density to channel snow, slush and water away from the contact area for added control. The WS80 is available in 48 sizes in 15-inch to 18-inch diameters, 35 to 70 series, and speed ratings T and H.