As of next season, South Korean tyre maker Hankook Tire will be the new and exclusive technical partner and tyre supplier of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. Recently, Hankook officially presented the newly-developed Hankook iON race tyres to Formula E, the world’s first racing competition for electric vehicles. Nearly 30% of the new tyre, which is specially tailored to the third generation of Formula E race cars, is made of sustainable materials.
The new tyre has been developed in close cooperation with the racing series and is particularly aimed at meeting the sustainability needs of Formula E and the future of e-mobility, without compromising motorsport performance, it adds. The Formula E teams have access to a tyre variant that can be used in both dry and wet conditions, to further save resources. Furthermore, the long durability of the tyre is another pioneering step. After each race weekend, Hankook will completely recycle every set of tires, ensuring the championship is as sustainable as possible.
Motorsport fans will first see the Hankook tyres in race conditions at the Mexico City E-Prix on January 14, 2023, where 40,000 spectators are expected to fill the grandstands for the inaugural race in the new Gen3 era.
“A good three years ago, Hankook decided to become the official technical partner and tyre supplier of what is arguably the most progressive, modern and sustainable racing series in the world, from the 2023 season,” said Sooil Lee, President/CEO of Hankook Tire & Technology. “The philosophy of the Hankook brand and our strategic orientation towards an increasingly sustainable future also reflect the spirit and DNA of Formula E. Together, we will advance and significantly influence the development of modern motorsport over the coming years.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Hankook to the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship,” said Formula E CEO Jamie Reigle. “We are proud to partner with a global player recognised as a top tyre manufacturer that lives and breathes motorsport as a fundamental aspect of its corporate philosophy. Hankook’s vast experience working with race teams at circuits around the world, its pioneering innovation, and commitment to sustainability make it a perfect match for the championship and our new Gen3 car.”
Consumers also will ultimately benefit from the development of the new Hankook Formula E race tyres thanks to the race to road technology transfer. With its upcoming range of new iON road tyres, Hankook will offer products for resource-friendly mobility to be fitted on premium electric cars. A significantly lower rolling resistance for more miles per battery load, high traction even on wet roads, good braking power for top safety, and a high level of durability notably reflect the demands that electric cars place on their tyres.