Hankook exhibits increased load index SmartFlex, TL02 trailer tyre at CV Show

UEFA Europa League sponsorship showcased through competition

Hankook’s Commercial Vehicle Show stand contained its CV tyre portfolio, with the recent adapted products for Euro V and VI vehicles taking centre stage. The SmartFlex AH31 and the TL02 trailer tyre were the key products in this respect, while the manufacturer also emphasised its Alphatread, retread range, which was extended with the addition of the popular 315/70R22.5 size, made available in January 2015. Hankook also hosted a football competition on its large Hall 5 stand, run in conjunction with its sponsorship of the UEFA Europa League.

Hankook said its continued investment in research and development has led to the increased load index of the SmartFlex AH31, a range of medium to long haul truck tyres for all season purposes, in size 295/80R22.5.  The SmartFlex AH31 was first introduced last year, designed specifically for the new Euro V and Euro VI vehicles.  The new SmartFlex AH31 295/80R22.5 with the load index of 154M which is suitable for vehicles plated with a front axle weight capacity of 7500kg will be available in the second quarter of 2015.

Hankook’s TL02 trailer tyre in size 295/60R22.5 has also witnessed new and unique developments as it has been adapted for use in the car transporter industry with a load index of 152J=7,100kg.

Hankook also displayed the next generation of its e-cube series, the e-cube Max, developed for increased sustainability and efficiency in long-distance transportation. The range consists of the AL10+ (steer), DL10+ (drive), and the matching trailer tyre TL10+. Additionally the winter SmartControl AW02, the on and off-road SmartWork DM09 and TH22 long-haul trailer tyre were displayed. In the truck segment, Hankook also focused on its 24 hour truck breakdown service, Hankook Road Assist 24h, available to customers in more than 30 countries including the UK.

In the lighter CV segment Hankook also showed its Vantra LT summer tyre for commercial vans and transporters, featuring improved fuel efficiency (“up to 13  per cent,” claims Hankook) and longevity (“12 per cent”) for extended mileage was also on show.

Jong Jin Park, managing director of Hankook Tyre UK said “Here at Hankook we pride ourselves on ensuring we maintain very close relationships with our customers which enables us to understand the various needs they face within the industry.  This in turn allows us to develop innovative and tailored tyre solutions.  The recognised high-quality of our products has not gone unnoticed, as some of the world’s largest truck manufacturers including MAN and Mercedes-Benz have recently announced original equipment fitments.  As of this year Hankook will be supplying its e-cube MAX, SmartFlex and SmartWork truck tyres for various MAN models.  Our exceptionally popular Vantra LT van tyre can also be seen fitted as original equipment to the Mercedes-Benz V-Class and the successful AH11 (steer axle) and DH05+ (drive axle) tyres can also be seen on the Mercedes-Benz Atego Euro VI models.”

Hankook’s football competition, while promoting the company’s burgeoning links with the global game, offered the winner a pair of VIP tickets to the UEFA Europa League Final in Warsaw.