Hankook Debuts 4 Tyres at CV Show

2008 is shaping up to be a yet another year of growth for Hankook. The South Korean manufacturer arrived at the CV show armed with several new products, indicating it is indeed taking its plans to increase market share in the commercial sector very seriously. During the three days at the Birmingham NEC visitors had the opportunity to inspect no less than four brand new truck tyres, products Hankook says kick off a series of tyre launches planned for the remainder of the year.

An all-new low profile premium steer axle tyre, the size 295/80R22.5 AH22, headed the list of new products displayed by Hankook. Company representatives report that this tyre, which also serves as an all position fitment for coach and bus fleets, delivers excellent performance in both wet and dry conditions. In terms of the tyre’s durability Hankook points to its tread depth of 16mm as one of a number of features making the AH22 a genuinely robust choice of tyre for heavy vehicles that cover considerable distances. The tyre is also available in size 315/80R22.5.

The new AH15 wide single steer axle tyre has a 16.5 mm tread depth, which Hankook says is paired with low rolling to offer significant fuel savings – vital in this market. The tyre features a 9 x tonne axle capability and is available in 385/65R22.5.

Of special note was Hankook’s premium high capacity (3350kg) trailer tyre, the TH06Z. Hankook representatives say they are particularly proud of this tyre as it incorporates a new Hankook-developed compound that reduces heat build up. The TH06Z has a tread depth of 14.5 mm and is available in size 275/70R22.5 148/145L (152/148J). The tyre has been designed primarily for the vehicle logistics industry, and caters for a market segment currently dominated by a single player. A Hankook representative told T&A the TH06Z is suitable for fitment to car transporter trucks, and at present Michelin is the only other manufacturer producing tyres for this specific type of vehicle. It will be interesting to see how Hankook fares in this niche market it has chosen to enter.

Hankook’s fourth new product at the show was its winter drive axle tyre, the 295/80R22.5 DW02. As a tyre designed with winter conditions in mind, it has a unique 21 mm tread depth, which not only offers superior traction in all weather conditions but aids self cleaning tread properties and promises higher mileage capabilities. And although winter truck tyres are still today an infrequently encountered fitment, Hankook says it is considering the option of introducing a steer tyre into the range here in 2009. The DW02 is also available in size 315/80R22.5.

In conclusion, Barrie Horrocks, Hankook’s UK commercial sales manager, said: “2008 is already gearing up to be a busy year for the commercial market and we were delighted to be able to showcase our new products at the CV Show.”