At the Sydney International EV Autoshow, a unique attraction stood out amidst the electric vehicles on display: Hankook’s specialised tyres designed exclusively for electric vehicles (EVs). While the event showcased a wide array of cutting-edge EVs, Hankook introduced its revolutionary tyre technology with its ion range, specifically crafted for the unique demands of EVs. This debut offered attendees a fresh perspective on the critical role tyres play in optimising electric vehicle performance.
A World-Leading Brand Embraces EV Tyre Design
As Suraj Matta, the Marketing Manager at Hankook Tyre Australia, explained, Hankook is a global leader in tyre manufacturing, boasting facilities and research centres worldwide. The development of Hankook’s EV tyres, branded as ion, began seven years ago with a focus on addressing the distinct requirements of EVs, unlike many competitors who modify traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) tyres for EV applications.
“This isn’t just a repurposed ICE tyre,” Matta remarked. Instead, the ion tyre was designed from scratch to meet EV-specific challenges, from handling weight to managing the rapid torque delivery characteristic of electric motors.
Developed From EV Motorsport
One notable aspect of Hankook’s EV tyre journey is its connection with Formula E. This motorsport series features high-performance electric cars racing on city streets worldwide, presenting tyre designers with challenges akin to those encountered in everyday urban driving. “Unlike Formula One, which is confined to tracks, Formula E races through real city streets, so our tyres had to operate like regular tyres while delivering the speed and performance expected from a high-powered EV,” explained Matta. Hankook’s involvement in Formula E allowed the company to develop an advanced compound for their tyres, which has since been adapted to its ion range for EVs and SUVs.
Meeting EV Challenges: Weight, Power, and Noise Reduction
The Hankook ion tyres were developed to withstand the increased weight of electric vehicles, which is often a factor due to the weight of the batteries, and the rapid acceleration that can wear down traditional tyres quickly. Matta highlighted that while traditional tyres may last between 20,000 to 25,000 kilometres on EVs, the ion tyres are engineered to endure up to 70,000 kilometres. This longevity is attributed to a unique “evolution compound,” a formula designed specifically for electric vehicles that balances durability and rolling resistance without compromising battery efficiency.
In terms of noise reduction, EVs present an entirely different challenge compared to traditional vehicles. For conventional ICE vehicles, engine noise can mask a significant amount of road noise. However, the silence of electric engines means tyre noise becomes much more noticeable. Hankook addressed this by incorporating noise-dampening foam within the tyre and designing tread patterns to dissipate sound. According to Matta, these innovations reduce noise by up to 29%, significantly enhancing the quiet driving experience EV owners expect.
Guaranteed Performance and Satisfaction
To reassure customers about the quality and performance of their ion tyres, Hankook offers a 70,000-kilometre guarantee and a satisfaction guarantee, which allows customers to test the tyres for up to 14 days with the option of a refund if not satisfied.
Matta also touched on the importance of regular tyre maintenance, particularly for EV owners. Hankook recommends rotating the tyres every 10,000 kilometres and ensuring wheel balancing to maximise longevity.
Local Testing
While EV tyres often need to be adapted for various climates, Matta mentioned that Hankook’s tyres, though primarily summer tyres, are designed with effective water dispersal to suit Australia’s diverse weather conditions. The ion tyres have been rigorously tested on Australian roads, confirming their compatibility with the local environment and eliminating the need for winter-specific tyres in most parts of Australia.
A Look Towards the Future
Hankook’s presence at the Sydney International EV Autoshow highlighted the growing importance of EV-specific tyres. By developing tyres with enhanced durability, noise reduction, and compatibility with the unique demands of electric vehicles, Hankook is paving the way for a new standard in EV tyre technology. Their commitment to innovation, shaped by experience in Formula E and extensive testing, sets them apart in a competitive field. For EV owners, Hankook’s ion range offers a glimpse into the future of tyre technology, promising performance that complements the quiet power of electric vehicles on both city streets and highways.
