Hankook to supply BMW 3-Series

In recent times run-flat champion BMW has spurned this particular sort of tyre for a number of entry-level models, and now it is offering its 316d to 320d and 316i to 320i with standard tyres. Hankook has been selected as a supplier for this more affordable end of the range; its Ventus S1 evo² has will be fitted in size 205/60 R16 W as original equipment. Following on from the Mini and the 1-Series, the new 3-Series is the third BMW Group model to be fitted with the Korean manufacturer’s tyres.

“Supplying original equipment for one of the best-selling, key models in the BMW range is proof of trust and motivation,” commented Jin-Wook Choi, Hankook Tire president and CEO for Europe. “We are pleased about the further intensified cooperation with BMW. With our new high-end product Ventus S1 evo² we have developed a tyre that convinced the critical BMW engineers with regard to driving dynamics and comfort as well as wet grip and rolling resistance during the intensive selection process.”

The Ventus S1 evo² was introduced to the market in spring 2012. Hankook singles out the tyre’s level of driving comfort and low rolling resistance, combined with its “distinctively dynamic” driving characteristics, as qualities of note. The tyre maker says the above was in part achieved through a significant reduction in weight (less unsprung masses) made possible through the use of an extremely light yet highly durable steel cord material that is, for example, applied in the belt package.

Furthermore, Hankook says that by optimising the vulcanisation parameters at reduced temperatures, it achieved a significant increase in the connection rate and a more targeted cross-linking of the rubber material. In combination with a newly developed styrene-butadiene polymer, these measures are said to ensure a significant increase in grip level – leading to “an outstanding braking and traction performance” even in the wet, coupled with a very low rolling resistance.

“The new BMW 3-Series is one of the few vehicles to master the balancing act between sporty driving dynamics and relaxed long-distance driving comfort, and at the same time it is a pioneer in terms of energy efficiency.” said Stefan Fischer, Head of Hankook Tire’s European Technology Centre (ETC) and also responsible for tyre development for the BMW Group. “With the new Ventus S1 evo² we consistently applied Kontrol Technology to develop a modern high-performance tyre which plays in the top league in terms of driving dynamics, safety and environmental considerations.”