Hankook US Tire Trial for Electric Vehicles

Hankook is introducing a free trial period for its iON tire range in the United States, specifically designed for electric vehicles. The company demonstrated these tires at a recent test-drive event, highlighting features that address the unique physical characteristics of EVs compared to traditional gasoline cars.

The initiative includes a 100-day return policy, allowing drivers to test the tires in real-world conditions before committing to a purchase. This approach acknowledges that tire performance varies significantly based on vehicle weight and power delivery.

Heavy vehicles demand stronger tires

Electric vehicles are generally heavier and deliver torque more instantly than their internal combustion counterparts. According to reports from GN auto tech, this combination can cause standard tires to wear out prematurely. The iON line is engineered to withstand these higher loads without degrading quickly.

Journalists tested the tires on a heavy luxury electric SUV, noting that the vehicle’s substantial weight and high torque output place significant stress on the rubber. The specialized construction aims to maintain durability under these demanding conditions.

Reduced noise and better efficiency

Because electric cars lack the masking sound of an engine, road noise is more noticeable. Hankook incorporates sipes in the tread and foam inserts inside the tire to dampen vibration and reduce this contact noise.

The tires also focus on minimizing rolling resistance to conserve energy. The manufacturer estimates that this design can increase a vehicle's range on a single charge by up to six percent, a modest but meaningful gain for EV owners.

Trial terms and conditions

The free trial is part of the SureTire Plan, which allows customers to return the tires within 100 days at no cost. However, this offer is not without limitations, as specific terms and restrictions apply to certain products in the lineup.