Hankook Tire has unveiled the SmartFlex DL15+, which benefits from an array of new tread design aspects to improve traction and enhance the fuel efficiency of regional and long-haul operations vehicles.
The SmartFlex DL15+ features an optimized bead profile and carcass structure to reduce deformation and improve overall energy dispersion when the tire is under heavy load. Furthermore, the TBR tire has been produced using a new belt structure, resulting in less heat generation to ensure a higher level of durability. This also extends to casing life to enable retreading when required.
Hankook developed the tire using its Smartec TBR technology, which is based on five main performance characteristics: safety, mileage, anti chip-cut, retreadability and traction. The process enables Hankook to develop new tire tread technologies which can be introduced through the DL15+, such as 3D, self-regenerating sipes that turn out at the mid and latter stages of the tire’s service life to significantly improve traction and reinforce interlocking components between blocks until the tire is completely worn.
The DL15+ also features a combined rib and semi-block pattern for additional stability and handling, and a wide closed shoulder pattern at edges enables smoother wear during the tire’s service life. Compared to its predecessor, the SmartFlex DL15+ benefits from a 12-point increase in its rolling resistance coefficient and is also SmartWay certified.
“At Hankook, we’re always looking for new and innovative ways to better support our nation’s truckers with products that have proven to go the distance and outperform industry standards, especially regarding fuel efficiency,” said Rob Williams, president of Hankook Tire America. “In today’s landscape, having products engineered to improve rolling resistance and lower overall cost-per-mile for owners and independent operators is especially important in helping that next fill-up go further.”
