Hankook tyres OE on all-electric SUV Škoda Enyaq iV

Hankook has continued the expansion of its original equipment portfolio for electric vehicles (EV). The manufacturer will supply the electric Škoda Enyaq iV with Ventus S1 evo 3 ev tyres specially developed for electric cars. The partnership follows Hankook’s existing OE deal with the Volkswagen Group to supply the same tyres to the Volkswagen ID.4. Depending on the model variant of Škoda’s first electric SUV, sizes 18 to 20 inches are available. Hankook joins Bridgestone in supplying the Enyaq iV, with the latter offering its Enliten Technology enabled Turanza Eco, Tyrepress sister site WhatTyre’s Eco Tyre of the Year 2022.

“Hankook and Škoda have already worked closely together in the past. That’s why we are particularly pleased to now continue our long-standing and trusted partnership on the brand’s first purely battery-powered SUV,” says Sanghoon Lee, president of Hankook Tire Europe. “The Ventus S1 evo 3 ev, perfectly adapted to the needs of electric vehicles, makes an important contribution to sustainable mobility in combination with the new Škoda model.

“The Ventus S1 evo 3 ev combines low rolling resistance and high load-bearing capacity. Fitted Hankook premium tyres, the dynamically styled Škoda Enyaq iV comes with all the requirements to efficiently utilise the battery power and thus achieve the highest possible vehicle range – still one of the most important criteria for electric vehicles.”

The Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3 ev harmonises with the Škoda electric SUV’s higher vehicle weight in all driving situations. Hankook has equipped the custom-designed EV tyre with a double-layer carcass made of high-performance fibres. It offers very high stability and ensures a low tare weight relative to its size. Another feature of the Ventus S1 evo 3 ev is the special tread compound. It confidently addresses the very high torques unique to electric vehicles while ensuring excellent grip both in wet and dry. The rolling resistance remains low all along. A special feature of the 20-inch dimension with reduced sidewall height is an additional, steel-based reinforcement in the bead area, which contributes to an even higher sidewall stiffness. In addition to a precise fit of the tyre on the rim, this ensures a particularly sporty, direct steering response.

Sustainability is a particular concern for the tyre manufacturer. Hankook Tire’s expansion of its EV portfolio is also a part of its long-standing commitment to sustainability. In addition, Hankook will be the new exclusive tyre supplier and technical partner for the “ABB FIA Formula E World Championship” from the 2022/23 season. In this prestigious series, Hankook will supply particularly sustainable and energy-saving motorsport tyres.