US launch for EV-focused Hankook iON

According to the recent Hankook Tire Gauge Index, a survey of Americans’ driving habits, 46 per cent of Americans plan to purchase or lease an electric vehicle (EV) within the next five years. Therefore, the arrival of Hankook’s EV-specific iON brand across the pond is timely. Catering to local preferences, the Hankook iON range for the USA has a strong all-season flavour, and the tyre maker has introduced two lines – the iON evo AS and iON evo AS SUV.

“The North American EV segment is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the automotive industry,” says Rob Williams, senior vice-president of North America sales at Hankook Tire America Corp. “The iON evo AS and iON evo AS SUV demonstrate Hankook’s industry-leading research and development to create tyres that are designed, from the ground up, for the unique needs of EVs. At a time when more drivers are making the switch to electric, these tyres are built to deliver the very best in mileage, comfort, and performance for EVs that drivers have come to expect from Hankook’s range of tyres.”

Hankook says it designed the new tyres to meet the demands of EVs in all seasons, with noise-proof technology, even tread wear and enhanced mileage, and increased grip and rigidity.

Even tread wear & enhanced mileage

The iON evo AS and iON evo AS SUV are built with Hankook’s EVolution compound, composed of high-concentration silica and eco-friendly materials, designed to evenly spread road pressure to extend tyre life and provide healthier tyre conditions. Hankook’s optimised curing technology and advanced compound also reduces rolling resistance, which enhances battery life and extends mileage.

Noise-proof technology with Hankook Sound Absorber

The lack of an ICE powertrain in EVs means that road noise can account for 40 per cent of cabin noise, while wind noise from high-speed driving can account for an additional 30 per cent. To reduce road noise and offer a quiet, pleasant ride at all speeds, Hankook has equipped the iON evo AS and iON evo AS SUV with Hankook Sound Absorber technology. Knurling technology inside the tyre grooves reduces tread pattern noise, while optimised multi-pitch sequencing and noise-absorbing material inside the tyre cavity help to further reduce cabin noise.

Increased grip & rigidity

Heavy lithium-ion battery packs can add 10-20 per cent more weight and stress to EVs compared to their ICE-powered equivalents. To bear this increased weight, iON evo AS and iON evo AS SUV are built with Hankook’s EV Contour Technology to increase lateral rigidity by 25 per cent and cornering rigidity by 20 per cent compared to all-season touring tyres, advancing EV grip performance. A high rigidity profile and tread design, coupled with 3D Grip Kontrol sipes on the main treads, provide exceptional grip for equal performance on dry, wet, and mild winter roads, as well as light snow.

Maximise driving experience

“The iON evo AS and iON evo AS SUV were developed for the EV driver that wants to maximise their driving experience without sacrificing the unique benefits of this new class of vehicle,” comments Kijong Kil, vice-president of RE Development. “Hankook’s EVolution technology, Hankook Sound Absorber and EV Contour Technology come together as the basis for an innovative, all-season tyre that delivers outstanding results for EVs.”

The Hankook iON evo AS SUV is available in 20 sizes ranging from 18 to 22 inches, while the iON evo AS is available in six sizes ranging from 18 to 21 inches. Both tyres come with a 50,000-mileage warranty.