2014 Hankook at Frankfurt Motor Show 2013

Press Kit
65th International Motor Show
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
10/11 September 2013
Contents
Original Equipment Fitment
Hankook chosen as original equipment supplier for new Mercedes-Benz S-Class by Daimler AG ....... 3
Hankook Tire Gains Traction in the Premium Automotive Segment
for the Original Equipment of the BMW 5-series ..................................................................................... 5
Hankook tyres made in Europe as Original Equipment for most eco friendly
new Mercedes-Benz E-Class .................................................................................................................. 6
Tyre Novelties
“Double A“ ratings for safety and energy efficiency:
2
Hankook’s Ventus Prime and Kinergy Eco ............................................................................................. 9
Hankook Ventus S1 evo² SUV:
Street tyres in the high-end performance segment ............................................................................... 10
Hankook Ventus V12 evo²:
Performance, design and environmental excellence combined in a new wide tyre .............................. 13
Hankook Kinergy 4S: Safety and comfort all-year round ...................................................................... 15
Concept Tyres and Studies
Hankook iFlex, the futuristic, non-pneumatic and eco-friendly tyre concept ......................................... 18
Hankook Tire’s Concept Tire eMembrane Honored with the Red Dot Design Award 2013 .................. 19
Hankook chosen as original equipment supplier
for new Mercedes-Benz S-Class by Daimler AG
Hankook Tire is continuing to expand its original equipment portfolio in the premium segment.
From market launch, the tyre manufacturer will supply its Ventus Prime² ultra-highperformance tyre for the new Mercedes-Benz flagship model. Development of the tyre focused
not only on wet grip and driving comfort, but also on environmental characteristics such as
reduced noise emission and low rolling resistance.
Neu-Isenburg, Germany, 2 September 2013 – Premium tyre manufacturer Hankook has been chosen by
Daimler AG as the original equipment supplier for the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. As of market launch,
the new luxury sedan will initially be fitted with Hankook Ventus Prime² tyres in size 245/55 R 17 102 W
ex works.
"The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is recognised as one of the finest luxury cars in the world," says Jin-Wook
Choi, Hankook Tire President and COO for Europe. "We are delighted that with the Hankook Ventus
Prime² we have developed a tyre for Daimler AG that meets all aspects of our customer’s exacting
requirements for their new Mercedes-Benz S-Class."
As well as meeting the demands for outstanding braking performance and excellent handling – important
safety aspects for all for Mercedes-Benz cars – the engineering specifications for the Ventus Prime²
focused on optimising comfort, minimising rolling noise and significantly reducing rolling resistance.
During the extensive testing phase, Hankook’s ultra-high performance tyre was particularly notable for its
comfortable driving characteristics.
Hankook’s Multi-Tread-Radius technology, applied to the Ventus Prime²’s tyre contour and tailored to
meet the precise requirements of Mercedes-Benz, stands out as one of the key factors for this successful
development work. In combination with a particularly compact belt package design, utilising ultra-hightensile steel cord, an optimised tyre footprint is ensured at all times, regardless of vehicle loading
condition. A new nano-silica tread compound, with a specially adapted base rubber blend, has significantly
reduced the tyre’s rolling resistance while maintaining a consistently high level of wet grip performance.
Additionally, the bionic tread pattern design leads to excellent resistance to hydroplaning without
negatively impacting on rolling noise.
The tyres for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class are currently being produced at Hankook’s main factory for
Ultra-High-Performance tyres in Geumsan, South Korea. This high-tech tyre plant specialises in the
production of premium- tyres and recent expansion has added a new division with some of the most
modern production facilities in the world dedicated to these top of the range products.
3
Hankook Ventus Prime²: Technical specifications
1. Optimised ground pressure distribution
- The Multi-Tread Radius Technology guarantees the best possible road contact for top handling and
high braking power, particularly in wet conditions and for extreme cornering,
as well as at very high speeds.
2. Ideal handling and longer life span
- The Hankook-patented SCCT Technology (Stiffness Control Contour Theory)
helps to achieve a very even ground pressure distribution for less wear.
3. Bionic design and asymmetrical tread design
The asymmetrical tread design combines excellent hydroplaning values with top handling
performance and an exact steering response.
The block-edge design of the outer tread rib, which were inspired by the teeth of a predatory cat,
dovetails with the road surface, thus guaranteeing a constantly optimised traction, as well as
significantly improved cornering stability in both wet and dry conditions.
4.
-
Improved wet and environmental capacities
The use of a hybrid silica tread compound with novel hybrid polymer chains and nano particles in the
production of the Ventus Prime2 maximises wet grip and fuel efficiency.
5. Available sizes
- The Hankook Ventus Prime² is available in 55 dimensions from 15 to 19-inch (series 65 to 40) for
vehicles of the lower mid size to luxury classes in tread widths of 185 to 255 mm (speed index H-Y),
mainly as an Extra Load (XL) model. In some sizes it is, however, also available as a Run Flat version
with emergency running properties (as HRS-Hankook Run Flat System).
4
Hankook Tire Gains Traction in the
Premium Automotive Segment
Tyre manufacturer Hankook continues to expand its presence in the premium vehicle segment.
Effective as of August 2013, new BMW 5-Series models will be equipped with Hankook’s highperformance Ventus S1 evo2 tyre. After the MINI, the BMW 1-Series, and the BMW 3-Series,
this is now the fourth model from the BMW Group that rolls off the factory production line on
Hankook tyres.
Neu-Isenburg, Germany, 5 September 2013 – Tyre manufacturer Hankook continues its expansion in the
premium automotive segment as it becomes the original equipment supplier for the BMW 5-Series. From
the beginning of August, the Munich-based car manufacturer’s highly successful executive car will be
factory fitted with Hankook’s ultra-high-performance tyre Ventus S1 evo², initially in the dimension
225/55R17W. The tyres will be fitted to the BMW 520i, 528i, 530i, 535i, and 520d models.
The BMW 5-Series is now the fourth model from the BMW Group fitted with Hankook tyres as original
equipment. “The fact that we are now equipping high-end BMW models, confirms our position as a
globally-recognised manufacturer of high performance premium tyres,” explains Jin-Wook Choi, Hankook
Tire President and COO for Europe. “The BMW 5-Series impressively combines driving performance,
safety, and comfort aspects that our ultra-high-performance Ventus S1 evo² tyre is designed to enhance without neglecting highest fuel-efficiency standards which are typical in vehicles of the BMW Group.”
The Hankook Ventus S1 evo² is designed for drivers of high-performing dynamic cars, who expect an
uncompromising sports performance across all parameters from their tyres, without neglecting comfort,
reduced road noise, and low rolling resistance. The successful combination of all performance features of
the Ventus S1 evo² is, among other things, the result of Hankook’s commitment, as exclusive tyre partner,
to the renowned international touring car series DTM.
“With our experience from DTM as well as our applied developmental philosophy Kontrol Technology*,
we designed a high-performance tyre that delivers unparalleled driving performance, comfort, efficiency,
and safety“, explains Klaus Krause, Head of Hankook’s European Technical Center. All tyres for the BMW
Group are currently being manufactured at the company's main plant in Geumsan in South Korea. The
high-tech tyre plant, which specializes in the production of ultra-high-performance tyres, was recently
extended by a new production division for high-end tyres and currently has the most modern production
facilities in the world.
5
Hankook tyres made in Europe as
Original Equipment for most eco friendly
new Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Tyre manufacturer Hankook has been selected by Daimler AG as the original equipment
manufacturer for the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class. As of September, the ultra-environmentally
friendly BlueEFFICIENCY version of the prestigious business limousine will witness the 17 inch size
exclusively fitted with Hankook's high-end product Ventus S1 evo². When developing the tyre, a high
comfort level and low noise, good handling properties and above all an especially low rolling
resistance were the focus. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class tyres are solely being produced at the
company’s European high tech tyre plant in Hungary.
Neu-Isenburg, Germany, 10th September 2013 – Premium tyre manufacturer Hankook is further
expanding its original equipment commitment with Daimler AG and will also start supplying the
Mercedes-Benz E-Class with high-performance tyres from its multiple award-winning Ventus line.
Following the brand new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the only recently updated, comfortable top class saloon
is already the second model of the prestigious Stuttgart brand to roll out the factory on Hankook tyres.
With its EU-6 emission category and a CO2 efficiency class of A+, the Mercedes-Benz E 220 BlueTEC
BlueEFFICIENCY Edition is regarded as one of the cleanest and most efficient conventionally powered
vehicles of its class worldwide and, in size 225/50 R 17, is exclusively equipped with Hankook's high-end
tyre Ventus S1 evo². Tyres are solely being manufactured in the company’s european high tech production
facility in Hungary.
"The Mercedes-Benz S- and E-class cars have always been distinctive trend-setters in their automotive
generation. The fact that both models are supplied with our Ventus high-performance tyres as original
equipment therefore simultaneously documents both our developmental competence and our product
quality and is thereby a strong statement towards the Hankook brand", explains Jin-Wook Choi, President
of Hankook Tire and Chief Operating Officer of the group's European headquarters. "With our high-end
product Ventus S1 evo², we have developed a tyre for the E-class that meets the high standards of
Mercedes-Benz engineers with respect to safety, comfort and driving dynamics while also setting a
benchmark for low rolling resistance."
Hankook developing engineers focused not only on the safety and comfort-related aspects typical for
Mercedes-Benz, such as reliable handling, excellent braking performance, high directional stability and
low rolling noise, but also realised a considerable reduction in rolling resistance. The Ventus S1 evo²
already distinguished itself in all categories during its test phase. One reason for this is a significant weight
reduction (less unsprung masses) thanks to the use of extremely light, yet highly durable steel wire
material, such as for the belt package, a technology also used in Hankook’s successful racing tyres for the
DTM, for example.
By increasing the mixing times at lower temperatures, a significant increase in the bonding rate and a more
targeted linking of the carbon black with the rubber molecules has been achieved for the tread compound.
The result is a lower amount of heat developed while driving, which also has positive effect on the driving
dynamics and especially the rolling resistance and wear behaviour. Furthermore, a newly developed
styrene polymer also significantly boosts the grip level of the tyre for outstanding brake and traction
performance on wet roads.
6
Technical Characteristics of the Hankook Ventus S1 evo²
1. DTM-engineered Multi Tread Radius for equal ground contact pressure through ideal tyre footprint:
- Outstanding high speed driving performance and straight stability.
- Perfect balance in both wet and dry conditions.
- Increased performance especially in lateral hydroplaning.
2. DTM-inspired triple layered block design for superior traction:
- The staircase arrangement of the outer rib blocks is designed to increase the tyre contact patch with
the surface as the tyre wear progresses, ensuring a consistently high traction performance throughout
the tyre-lifecycle.
3. Latest generation Mixing Technologies and all new Tread Compound for reduced Rolling Resistance,
dynamic handling characteristics and improved wet braking performance:
- The extension of mixing times at reduced temperatures significantly increases the bonding rate and
more targeted cross linking between carbon and rubber molecules for reduced heat generation
during driving thus improving handling characteristics while at the same time reducing
rolling resistance, tread wear and thermal caused aging.
- A new High Styrene Polymer enhances the tyre’s wet braking performance as well.
7
4. Advanced Cooling System with Intercoolers for improved heat regulation:
- Surface enlarging cooling fins in the ground of tyre grooves provide a permanent heat reduction
providing a more stable handling performance.
- Double step dimples at outer block edges generate micro cooling turbulences thus reducing heat in
the tyre’s shoulder part.
5. VAI Siping System (Vehicle Alignment Indicator)
- Provides drivers an easy and convenient way to check the vehicles alignment themselves by
comparing wear on the sipes of both of the tyre’s shoulders and realign as necessary.
6. Aero Dynamic Sidewall with embedded letters:
Rectangular dimples-design minimises noise and vibration level for increased driving-comfort.
7. Line-Up:
- The line-up of the Ventus S1 evo² will come in sizes 16 to 20 inches in series 60 to 30 and cover
tread width from 205 to 305 thus being available for high powered compact cars, luxury
limousines and sports cars.
8
“Double A“ ratings for safety and energy efficiency:
Hankook’s Ventus Prime2 and Kinergy Eco
Hankook Tire presents AA-labelled versions of their high-end comfort tyre Ventus Prime ² and
the fuel-saving Hankook Kinergy eco at this year’s 65th Motor Show in Frankfurt. Both models
were developed with a view on the combined requirements of eco-friendliness and safety as
called for by the European tyre label requirements and will be available in several sizes as of
spring 2014.
Neu-Isenburg, Germany , September 10th 2013 - The optimisation of the overall vehicle efficiency is one
of the major challenges of sustainable mobility solutions. Also for future car models, there will be no
alternative to tyres (is there a word missing here) which will thus to a large extent influence safety, fuel
efficiency and driving characteristics. At the IAA 2013, tyre manufacturer Hankook presents AA-labeled
versions of their high-end comfort tyre Ventus Prime² and the particularly fuel-efficient Kinergy eco, both
available in the market as of spring 2014.
It’s not only car manufacturers that have followed the trend of further reducing rolling resistance in
Original Equipment tyres, also in the development of alternative mobility solutions such as electric
vehicles, this is a key issue. In order to reduce power loss and improve the overall mileage, driving and
rolling resistance are both reduced. Rolling resistance is one of the major challenges faced in the
development of future tyres.
The fuel-saving technology of the Hankook Kinergy eco is a combination of new materials applied to the
tread compound, such as Silica nano-particles, and the use of new mixing technologies. These improve
both fuel efficiency and the tyre’s wet braking performance. Hankook’s OE specialist Ventus Prime² comes
equipped with a special tyre contour built in Multi-Tread-Radius Technology and high-strength steel cord
material which is used for the extremely compact belt package. This guarantees the best possible tyre
footprint. By using a novel nano-silica tread compound with a specially adapted base blend, the tyre’s
rolling resistance could significantly be reduced while maintaining consistently high wet grip performance.
9
Hankook Ventus S1 evo² SUV:
Street tyres in the high-end performance segment
Tyre manufacturer Hankook is extending its extensive line-up in the ultra-high performance
segment to include high-performance sports utility and sports activity vehicles.The company's
flagship, the Ventus S1 evo2 will be available in a newly developed SUV version as of spring 2014
in 30 sizes ranging from 17 to 22 inches for these increasingly popular vehicles.
Neu-Isenburg, Germany, September 10, 2013 - The concept behind Hankook's flagship, the Ventus S1
evo2, is also aimed at driver's of high-performance, dynamic vehicles in the new SUV model of the tyre;
driver's that demand uncompromising and sports-like performance from their tyres across all parameters
without compromising on features like suspension comfort, rolling noise and low rolling resistance. The
successful combination of all dynamic driving features of the Ventus S1 evo2 is, among other things, the
result of Hankook's successful involvement as exclusive tyre partner of the renowned international touring
car racing series DTM.
The particularly sophisticated technology of the Ventus S1 evo2 SUV with its multiple tread radius and
double-layer rayon carcass provides a maximum tyre contact area under all conditions. The tyre impresses
not only with outstanding aquaplaning characteristics but also with optimum road contact for perfect
balance under both wet and dry conditions. Driving control and safety at high speeds are also significantly
improved. The innovative DTM inspired 3-layer block design with its special staircase arrangement of the
outer rib blocks, provides an improved tyre contact area as tyre wear progresses thereby guaranteeing more
effective traction performance across the entire life cycle of the tyre.
"Our flagship in the high-performance SUV model is also fully loaded with innovative technologies and
design features, which we have been able to develop on the basis of our expertise as an exclusive tyre
partner of the DTM team, Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz", says Jin-Wook Choi, Hankook President and
Head of Hankook Europe. "Our premium tyres provide a direct sports-like driving experience combined
with safety and comfort while being environmentally friendly at the same time. This makes the Ventus S1
evo2 SUV another outstanding example for Kontrol Technology, our philosophy of combining technology,
top performance and safety in all of our products."
The Ventus S1 evo2 SUV is equipped with the newest highly developed generation silica compound with an
optimised cross-linking system that improves wet traction, wear characteristics and thermal aging
resistance. The high traction styrene polymer formula enables improved wet performance while rolling
resistance is reduced for maximised environmental excellence. A refined cooling system with surface
enlarging fins anchored to the base of the tread grooves and micro-turbulence generating dimples arranged
on the outer edges of the shoulder block enable faster heat dissipation for more stable handling
characteristics and longer tyre durability. In order to make the driving experience even more comfortable
the Hankook UHP flagship is equipped with an aerodynamic shaped wing that further reduces tyre noise
and highlights the sports-look of the tyre. The Ventus S1 evo2 SUV is manufactured mainly in the
company's state-of-the-art factory in Hungary.
10
Technical characteristics of the Hankook Ventus S1 evo2 SUV:
1. DTM developed tread surface with Multi-Tread Radius and double-layer rayon carcass
for extremely smooth ground pressure distribution thanks to an ideal tyre contact area:
- Exceptional high-speed driving performance and driving stability
- Perfect balance and performance on wet and dry roads
- Improved performance especially with transverse aquaplaning
2. DTM-inspired triple layered block design for superior traction:
- The staircase arrangement of the outer rib blocks is designed to increase the tyre contact patch with
the surface as the tyre wear progresses, ensuring a consistently high traction performance throughout
the tyre-lifecycle
3.
Improved Compound Technology for improved wet braking performance & reduced rolling resistance:
- High Styrene Polymer enhances the tyre’s wet braking performance
- An optimised cross-linking system helps to improve the tyre’swear performance
11
4. Advanced Cooling System with Intercoolersfor improved heat regulation:
- Surface enlarging cooling fins in the ground of tyre grooves provide a permanent heat reduction
providing a more stable handling performance
- Double step dimples at outer block edges generate micro cooling turbulences thus reducing heatin
the tyre’s shoulder part
5. VAI Siping System (Vehicle Alignment Indicator)
- Provides drivers an easy and convenient way to check the vehicles alignment themselves by
comparing wear on the sipes of both of the tyre’s shoulders and realign as necessary
6. Line-Up:
- The line-up will initially be available in the sizes 17 to 22 inchescovering the 30 to 60 series with
the treadth widths of 225 to 315.
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Hankook Ventus V12 evo²:
Performance, design and environmental excellence
combined in a new wide tyre
With the new Ventus V12 evo2, tyre manufacturer Hankook presents a new performance and
design oriented refitting wide tyre for sports-style inspired drivers. The elegant, directional
design of the tread with 3D block structure and aerodynamically optimised sidewall combines
style and excellent drive performance with the environmental attributes that are gaining
significance in this class as well - rolling noise and rolling resistance. The market launch in
spring 2014 will initially make the Ventus V12 evo2 available in 25 attractive refitting sizes
ranging from 16 to 19 inches.
Neu-Isenburg, Germany, September 10, 2013 - Premium tyre manufacture Hankook is rejuvenating its
line-up in the refitting/tuning segment and bringing an exceptionally elegant yet high-performance wide
tyre onto the European market in spring 2014 with the newly developed Ventus V12 evo2. In addition to
considerable improvements in all performance parameters, environmental characteristics were also a key
element for the developer when creating the V12 evo2.
The flow-optimised, directional tread consists of the 3D block structure, already known from the
predecessor model, which has been enhanced for excellent water channelling. The tyre contour in the
Multi-Tread-Radius Technology, derived from the manufacturer's successful involvement with motor
sports, in combination with the extremely stiff yet particularly lightweight steel cord material of the belt
layer also guarantees the best possible tyre contact area under extreme stress, for example high cornering
speeds.
With the usage of a high traction nano-silica tread compound in combination with the optimisation of tread
block stiffness along the entire tread width, braking distances of both dry and wet braking is shortened by 4
to 5 percent. The high traction styrene polymer formula in the rubber compound enables improved wet
performance while rolling resistance is reduced for maximised environmental excellence.
A refined cooling system of surface-enlarged fins anchored in the base of the tread grooves enable faster
heat dissipation for more stable handling characteristics and longer tyre durability. In order to make the
driving experience even more comfortable, like its "big" brother Ventus S1 evo2, the new Ventus V12 evo2
is also equipped with an aerodynamic shaped wing that further reduces tyre noise and highlights the sportslook of the tyre.
The Ventus V12 evo2 is manufactured mainly in the company's state-of-the-art European factory in
Hungary and will be available in spring 2014 in 25 dimensions starting with 16 to 19 inches with tread
widths of 205 to 255 mm in the 30 to 50 series.
###
13
Technical characteristics of the Hankook Ventus V12 evo2:
1. Improved handling characteristics
- Motor sports tyre contour and extremely stiff, ultra-lightweight belt layer for optimum power
transmission
- Surface enlarged cooling fins in the tread base of the main grooves provide continuous heat
reduction for more stable handling performance.
2. Secure water channelling on wet streets
- The flow optimised tread grooves channel water optimally and quickly.
3. Reduced noise development
- Elaborate 5-pitch design and special block edges minimise rolling noise.
- The dimple sidewall design reduces noise and vibrations at high speeds.
4. Improved rolling resistance
- New styrene polymer compound technology
5. Line-Up
- The line-up will initially be available in sizes 16 to 19 inches covering the 30 to 50 series with
tread widths of 195 to 255.
14
Hankook Kinergy 4S:
Safety and comfort all-year round
With the Kinergy 4S, tyre manufacturer Hankook presents its newest generation of highperformance 4-season tyres with optimised wet/dry handling and improved winter safety. The
modern hybrid tread, with a summer exterior and a winter interior, provides an alternative
option to changing from summer to winter tyres for temperate European climate zones. An
extensive line-up, available as of spring 2014, also makes the tyre interesting to drivers of SUV’s
and upper-range saloons, frequent drivers as well as its application in vehicle fleets.
Neu-Isenburg, Germany, September 10, 2013 – Thanks to its modern material and manufacturing
technologies plus its brand’s hallmark asymmetrical tread design, the new high-performance 4-season tyre
Hankook Kinergy 4S is able to brave the most variable weather conditions. The interior half of the tread,
which has been optimised for winter use, and the summer tread on the exterior provide security and
balance for use all-year round in temperate European climate zones. The Hankook Kinergy 4S is aimed,
for example, at quality-conscious drivers in urban environments who do not want or cannot change
summer and winter tyres but still want to be as mobile as possible all-year round. The extensive, broad
line-up also covers popular sizes for SUV’s and upper-range saloons; this makes the new tyre series very
relevant for vehicle fleets so they can avoid breakdowns due to variable weather conditions in spring and
autumn. It is also aimed at frequent drivers, for example, who want to drive safely with legal conformity
across national borders during the seasonal transition periods but don’t want to give up summer tyre
handling features.
As identification of its excellent winter properties the Kinergy 4S bears the snowflake symbol. For
improved traction and optimised brake performance the number of tread blocks has been increased by six
percent compared to previous models. This increases the contact patch area by two percent when braking
and by five percent when accelerating. The winter shoulder of the 4-season tyre, which is additionally
equipped with a 3D winter sipe locking system, attains increased traction edge when rolling and helps
effectively bite into the road in snow and wet winter conditions. As a result, the braking distance of the
Kinergy 4S is shortened by about ten percent on snow and about two percent on ice. The Kinergy 4S
performs confidently on wet roads: In addition to the main grooves, the added diagonal grooves ensure
even more effective water flow through the treads for improved aquaplaning characteristics.
As an added comfort feature the Kinergy 4S is equipped with additional winter tread wear indicators that
let you know when a tyre’s tread depth is no longer beneficial for winter performance. The tread wear
indicators (TWI), in addition to the regular, legally prescribed TWI’s, have been worked into the base of
the tread groove and marked with a stylised snowflake on the platform so it’s easy to recognise at a glance
whether the tyres still have the tread depth of about 4 mm required for optimal winter use.
The summer shoulder of the Kinergy 4S has been specially optimised for the high demands of
manoeuvring curves as well as ideal braking response on wet and dry roads. The high hardness of the
blocks and a strengthened bead-filler within the tough sidewall secures improved cornering grip and
steering response, in comparison with previous models, thereby improving handling characteristics by up
15
to 6 percent. The extra wide tread section with 5 tread blocks makes the Kinergy 4S particularly durable. A
highly dispersible full-silica compound with nano-particles provides the necessary grip, even on wet roads.
The optimised binding rate of the molecules in the tread mixture give the Kinergy 4S a cooler running
temperature thereby optimising its wear and tear characteristics.
The Hankook Kinergy 4S will initially be available in sizes 14 to 18 inches in the 40 to 70 series with tread
widths of 155 to 255 thereby also making it available for medium-weight SUV’s and upper-range saloons.
###
* Kontrol Technology
Derived from the English terms Kinetic (for movement) and Control (for control), Hankook Tire Kontrol
Technology reflects the best possible controllability of the interaction between the driver, the vehicle and
the road by the tyres during the journey. Kontrol Technology has been developed in order to provide the
vehicle driver with all currently available benefits of the latest Hankook tyre technology in terms of safety,
driving characteristics, comfort and environmental compatibility.
###
Technical characteristics of the Hankook Kinergy 4S:
1. Improved braking response
The increased number of spiked grooves inside the tread blocks provide improved grip and
optimum braking performance under various road conditions.
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2. Convenient wear-out display
- The tread wear indicator shows when the tyres no longer have any winter properties. If it is at an
even level with the surrounding tread then the tyres should only be driven with in the summer.
3. 3D sipes and increased number of blocks for added safety
- The winter sipes (blue) provide high performance on snow and ice.
- In summer the 3D sipes on the exterior of the tire (green) also provide added safety when
manoeuvring fast curves on wet and dry ground.
- The considerably increased number of tread blocks improves grip and braking response.
4. Improved wet grip and lower rolling resistance
- The high-grip silica compound with nano-particles simultaneously maximises wet grip and fuel
efficiency.
5. Line-Up
The line-up includes sizes 14 to 18 inches in the 40 to 70 series with tread widths of 155 to 255
thereby also making it available for medium-weight SUV’s and upper-range sedans.
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Hankook iFlex,
the futuristic, non-pneumatic and eco-friendly
tyre concept
Trend-setting tyre solutions for the demands of future-oriented mobility systems are taking
centre stage at Hankook’s presence at the IAA 2013. The optimisation of conventional vehicles
with regard to tyres as well as studies for sustainable mobility that combine efficiency and ecofriendliness will be focal points. This year witnesses the unveiling of the Hankook iFlex, the
prototype of a non-pneumatic eco-friendly tyre that is designed to increase the overall efficiency
of vehicles.
Neu-Isenburg, Germany, 10th September 2013 – There is an increasing demand for innovative and smart
solutions by suppliers to optimise vehicle efficiency within the automobile industry. Looking towards the
future, Engineers at Hankook Tire have reconceptualised conventional tyres and present a new generation
in airless tyres with the introduction of the futuristic Hankook iFlex. The up to 95% recyclable tyre, made
from highly elasticated polyurethane synthetics is manufactured in conjunction with its rim consumes less
energy during rolling and it does not require air unlike conventional tyres. This in turn results in lowering
fuel consumption while simultaneously increasing vehicle safety.
The innovative structure of the Hankook iFlex uses organically connected spokes which distribute the
pressure so that the bottom of the tyre is compressed while the top stretches, ensuring a comfortable and
smooth ride.
As a tyre concept of the future the Hankook iFlex allows consumers to express their personality and style.
There is a wide selection of colours that can be applied to the centre frame, outer layer and inner structure.
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Hankook Tire’s Concept Tire eMembrane
Honored with the Red Dot Design Award 2013
Hankook’s tyre concept eMembrane earns the honor with the Red Dot Award 2013 in
concept design category. The double award-winning eMembrane once more gives proof
of Hankook’s excellence in innovative product design
Seoul/Korea, Neu-Isenburg/Deutschland, 10th September 2013 – Tyre manufacturer Hankook was
rewarded the Winner Label from the Red Dot Award 2013 for concept design for its tyre design
concept eMembrane, produced in collaboration with University of Cincinnati. The concept convinced
by way of innovatively combining design and technology.
Hankook sees the award of its eMembrane design is as a result of its sustained investments in futureoriented and sophisticated product design. It is designed as a Smart-Hybrid concept that combines
both performance at high speeds and safe and environmental friendly, regular city driving. As such
the eMembrane tyre concept can implement contrasting roles of both being ‘eco-friendly’ and driving
with ‘dynamic’ performance.
Mainly targeting young drivers who look for fun, performance, environmental friendliness and safety
when driving, one particular distinguished feature of the eMembrane design is its capability of
transforming the tyre profile through internal structure changes in accordance with different driving
conditions. For instance, when driving at high-speeds, the tyre’s tread center extends to generate
maximum ground friction through an expanded ground contact area, which maximizes grip power to
execute dynamic cornering and performance driving. On the other hand, when driving at low-speeds,
the tread is designed to produce minimal road contact area and ground friction, whereby the tyre’s
fuel efficiency is enhanced by reducing rolling resistance.
“A reward with the internationally high-profile Red Dot Design Award is another momentous point
and demonstrates Hankook’s competitiveness in the areas of innovation, design and technology,” says
Jin-Wook Choi, Hankook Tire President and COO for Europe and adds, “Especially in 2013 Hankook
was able to elevate its reputation as a premium tyre brand in the global automotive industry by
receiving a double reward from two of world’s top three design competitions. Taking on this
momentum, we will continue our sustained R&D investments in developing cutting-edge tyre designs
through technological advancement for our customers around the globe.”
Coupled with the latest honor of receiving the ‘2013 iF Design Award’ in May this year, the
recognition by the Red Dot Design Award 2013 marked another major achievement for Hankook’s
eMembrane design concept. The double award-winning eMembrane, recognized by two of the top
international design competitions, clearly accentuates the company’s high innovative design
competence.
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[List of Major Design Awards]
Award
2013 Red Dot Design Award (Germany)
Product
eMembrane (concept tire)
2013 iF Design Award (Germany)
Ventus S1 evo2 Motion Graphic Brochure
and Eco Motion Graphic Brochure
2012 iF Design Award (Germany)
Ventus S1 evo2 Motion Graphic Brochure
2012 iF Design Award (Germany)
Eco Motion Graphic Brochure
2012 Good Design Award (US)
Winter i*cept evo
2011 iF Design Award (Germany)
Ventus S1 evo2
2010 iF Design Award (Germany)
Hankook Tire Calendar
2010 iF Design Award (Germany)
Tire Production Motion Graphic
2010 Red Dot Design Award (Germany)
Winter i*cept evo
2009 iF Design Award (Germany)
Optimo 4S
2009 iF Design Award (Germany)
enfren
2001 Red Dot Design Award (Germany)
Ventus K102
2001 Red Dot Design Award (Germany)
Ventus Prime
[The Red Dot Design Award]
Established in 1955, the Red Dot Design Award is among the most international and highly regarded
design competitions in the world along with the iF Design Awards and the International Design
Excellence Awards (IDEA). Held annually, the Red Dot Design Award is divided into three major
categories: product design, communication design, and concept design. The concept design was
opened in 2005, and its judging criteria include degree of innovation, aesthetic quality, functionality,
and ecological compatibility. In 2013, the competition for concept design was particularly fierce with
4,394 entry submissions from 57 participating countries worldwide.
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About Hankook Tire
Hankook Tire is one of the world's largest and fastest growing tyre manufacturers for innovative, highquality and high-performance radial tyres for passenger cars, light trucks, SUVs, RVs, trucks, and buses as
well as motorsports (circuit racing/rallies).
Aspiring to bring consumers the utmost excellence in quality and driving satisfaction, Hankook Tire
continuously invests in research and development maintaining five global R&D centres located in Korea,
Germany, USA, China and Japan. Bespoke tyre solutions for the European markets as well as European
Original Equipment according to the requirements of leading car manufacturers, are developed in the
company’s regional Technical Centre in Hanover/Germany. Production is taking place in the state-of-theart European production site in Rácalmás/Hungary which was inaugurated in June 2007 and is
continuously being expanded. Currently more than 2,000 employees produce approximately twelve million
tyres a year for passenger cars, SUVs and light trucks. Upon completion of the latest production unit in
2014/15 the factory’s production capacity will increase to about 17 million tyres per year.
Hankook Tire’s European headquarters are located in Neu-Isenburg near Frankfurt am Main in Germany.
The manufacturer operates further branches in Europe in Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, the
Netherlands, Hungary, Russia, Turkey, Sweden and Poland. Hankook products are sold directly through
regional distributors in other local markets. Hankook Tire employs more than 20,000 employees
worldwide and are selling their products in over 180 countries. Internationally leading car manufacturers
rely on tyres made by Hankook for their original equipment. More than 30 percent of the company's global
sales are generated within the European and CIS-Region.
For more information please visit www.hankooktire-press.com or www.hankooktire-eu.com
Contact:
Hankook Tire Europe GmbH | Siemensstr. 5a, 63263 Neu-Isenburg | Germany
Felix Kinzer
Direktor Public Relations
Fon: +49 (0) 61 02 8149 – 170
[email protected]
Susanne Baun
Public Relations Europe
Fon: +49 (0) 6102 8149 – 172
[email protected]
Astrid Buschhoff
Public Relations Europe
Fon: +49 (0) 61 02 8149 – 171
[email protected]
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