South Korea’s Kumho Tire has announced that it has signed a mutual technical improvement memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Lotte Innovate to promote the demonstration of autonomous vehicles and smart tyre technology.
Through this MOU, Kumho Tire will supply tyres for Lotte Innovate’s autonomous vehicles and provide a “smart tyre system” that informs drivers of the tyre condition.
Under this agreement, Kumho Tire plans to supply its electric vehicle tyre EnnoV, which uses a sensor module mounted inside the tyre and a wireless communication device in the vehicle to measure air pressure, temperature, and wear during driving, providing drivers with optimal air pressure monitoring and real-time status information. This helps prevent accidents in advance and reduces both fuel consumption and tyre replacement costs.
Kim Youngjin, Executive Vice President of R&D at Kumho Tire, stated, “Kumho Tire is actively exploring the application of new platforms to provide customers with safe and economical mobility in line with the rapidly evolving mobility industry environment. Through collaboration with Lotte Innovate, we will enhance the completeness of our smart tyre technology and build competitiveness to prepare for the era of autonomous driving.”
Kumho Tire is providing solutions to enhance the safety and efficiency of vehicle operation through its smart tyre system.
In 2024, the company signed a supply contract with Suncheon Transportation and is operating a commercial service for a tyre information management system that includes bus fleet management functions.
The system has also been expanded to AGT rail vehicles and its performance has been demonstrated on the Uijeongbu ULINE route.