Hankook marketing EV tech as iON Innovative Technology

Hankook Tire has given a name to the combined innovations it uses in its iON electric vehicle tyres. It collectively calls these iON Innovative Technology. Hankook Tire says these newly branded technologies not only accelerate efficiencies in the research and development process but will also enhance communication with customers.

The four key technologies within iON Innovative Technology are i Sound Absorber (Noise), i Super Mileage (Wear), i Perfect Grip (Grip), and i Extreme Lightness (LRR). Hankook Tire further divides this quartet into 15 “detailed technology components” in order to provide a “more organised and streamlined R&D process.”

By employing EV-specific technologies, Hankook Tire has produced a quieter, lighter and higher mileage tyre. Although not mentioning specific dimensions and models, the tyre maker reports that its internal tests with iON demonstrate an up to 18 per cent reduction in cabin noise, up to 15 per cent increase in tyre life, up to ten per cent increase in driving stability, and up to six per cent increase in MPGe efficiency compared to tyres for ICE vehicles. “These results prove the importance and necessity of developing specialised technologies optimised for electric vehicles,” comments Hankook Tire.

58 patented technologies

The core of the iON Innovative Technology system is composed of 58 patented technologies. Among these, a total of nine patents have been applied to iON for noise reduction, including ‘Noise Guard,’ the thick, vertical tyre groove on the tyre’s surface that utilises Knurling technology. Meanwhile, Hankook Tire deployed 11 patented technologies to enhance mileage, including ProDurable Compound, designed to extend tyre life by combining an advanced material, and Round Even, which renders a more uniformed road contact pressure.

The tyre maker implemented a total of 23 patented technologies to enhance tyre grip and handling, such as Grip Claw, a material utilising ultra-thin-film 3D Kerf technology, and ProGrip Compound, which combines high silica concentrations with eco-friendly materials for improved grip performance. Last but not least, Hankook used 15 patented technologies to enhance rolling resistance, including ProCoupling Compound, which functions by increasing silica dispersion through optimal compound combinations.

Promoting iON technology

Hankook Tire intends to “proactively employ” this new technology system in its marketing program. By clearly explaining the distinctive qualities of electric vehicles and the necessity for dedicated EV tyres, as well as the “specialised electric vehicle technology embedded in iON”, the company aims to strengthen its communication with customers and promote its technology, which “leads the electrification paradigm in the mobility industry.”

Introduced into European markets in May 2022, iON expanded its reach to Korea and North America last September and December respectively. In May 2023, Hankook Tire launched iON in China, the world’s largest EV market. “Through these accomplishments, Hankook Tire is rapidly growing its position as a mainstream EV tyre brand,” the company concludes.