In May, Hankook Tire will launch its first range of tires designed specifically for high-performance electric vehicles, under the name iON.
Characteristics of the new EV tire range include a reduced rolling resistance and improved wear attributes. By utilizing the tire, drivers of electric cars could expect to see more range per charge, Hankook says. Additionally, the tires emit lower noise levels due to the company’s sound absorbing technology and a specifically designed tread pattern helps to further reduce cabin noise.
Other features of the EV-specific tires include a higher load capacity to combat the added weight of EV battery packs and ultra-resistant aramid fibers to counteract deformation caused by the high torque figures of EVs. Furthermore, the iON range features a tread compound that utilizes a high proportion of natural resin, which improves durability and wear levels to extend the tire’s service life.
Upon launch, the iON tire range will be available in three designs in sizes from 18in to 22in: in May 2022 the Hankook Ventus iON S summer tire will reach the European market; a Hankook Winter i*cept iON will follow in September; and an all-season Hankook Ventus iON A tire will be released for the North American market.
“With the introduction of this new iON tire family, our company is increasingly considering the rapidly growing demand for electric vehicles and the associated need for suitable tires, also in terms of the need for replacements,” commented Sooil Lee, CEO and president, Hankook Tire & Technology. “With an improved range per battery charge, this new generation of tires will help to further optimize the efficiency of electric vehicles in everyday use.”
“We are particularly proud that the new Hankook iON summer tire, for example, has achieved an A/A/A rating on the EU tire label,” said Bonhee Ku, executive vice president and CTO, Hankook Tire. “This corresponds to the highest performance in terms of rolling resistance, wet grip and tire noise.”
