Hankook Launches Tire for EVs

Hankook Tire Co. Ltd. has launched its second-generation tire for electric vehicles. The new tire is called the Kinergy AS EV, which the tire maker said offers improved handling and noise reduction optimized for the newest electric vehicles.

The Kinergy AS EV is designed specifically to be compatible with the specifications of EVs. EVs differ from conventional vehicles as their engines do not make noise, their bodies weigh more by 10 to 20 percent and they have higher initial acceleration. This makes external noise and the noise of the tires more noticeable. The Kinergy AS EV replicates the feel of an ultra-high performance tire, and thus creates a noise environment that is suitable for EVs.

The Kinergy AS EV tires has an aramid hybrid reinforcement belt, and sports an extra-load reinforcement structure, thus restricting any increase in diameter, even in high-speed driving. According to Hankook, the tires also minimize tread block distortion when changing direction. This helps to maintain optimum grip force, handling and stability.

The tire also incorporates Hankook’s Aqua Pine compound, which includes resin obtained from conifers and environment-friendly vegetable oil. It is said that the new compound will improve performance and handling on wet roads, and allows for braking in diverse road conditions. This improves driving stability while reducing tire slip and minimizing tread abrasion to deliver the power of the electric motor and initial acceleration with no loss.

The Kinergy AS EV will be sold at the retail level in Korea from this year and Hankook hopes to launch these tires on a global basis next year.