Michelin supporting Hyundai tyre development programme

Under a cooperative deal signed with Hyundai Motor, Michelin will work together to develop a new all-season tyre for electric vehicles, and will also collaborate in the development of a bespoke tyre for a successor model to the Genesis G80 saloon. Representatives from Hyundai Motor recently visited Michelin’s research and development centre in Clermont-Ferrand, France, to sign a technical partnership agreement.

Sharing details of the deal, Hyundai Motor says it links its research and development work to that of Michelin and will enable a strengthening of its capabilities in tyre performance technology. A cooperative training plan also allows Hyundai Motor’s own tyre designers to learn tyre testing and analytical research directly from Michelin engineers.

The electric vehicle tyre project will utilise Michelin’s next-generation tyre material and structural technology to aid Hyundai in optimising overall vehicle efficiency and performance. For the G80 successor tyre, joint Michelin and Hyundai testing and analysis, both in the laboratory and in conditions set to match the Nürburgring circuit, will determine tyre vibration characteristics at high speeds. The partners are striving to achieve the best levels of ride and handling, while minimising noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

“This cooperation between our two groups is a major milestone for Michelin, and we are proud to have been chosen by Hyundai Motor to put together the best of our leadership and expertise in order to improve their future electric and luxury vehicles,” states Vincent Rousset-Rouviere, president of Michelin’s Original Equipment division. “Michelin has been investing constantly in new technologies and innovations to enhance the performance of our tyres, so that mobility becomes safer, more sustainable and more enjoyable for all consumers. This new partnership with Hyundai Motor will allow us to open a broad range of new opportunities.”

Woong-chul Yang, vice-chairman of Hyundai Motor, adds that the collaborative relationship with Michelin will allow Hyundai to accelerate the development and deployment of new tyre technologies. “With this enriched knowledge, the next generation of Hyundai Motor electric cars will offer improved performance and efficiency, bringing a direct benefit to the consumer. Working with Michelin will also strengthen Hyundai Motor’s tire technology on a broader scale, as we also focus on developing luxury Genesis cars and high-performance vehicles.”