Mercedes picks Hankook tyres for V-Class minivan

Mercedes-V-Class

The Ventus Prime2 and Vantra LT manufactured by Hankook Tire Co. Ltd. have been selected as the original fitment for the Mercedes-Benz V-Class minivan.

The fitments are:

– The Ventus Prime2 in the 17-inch version in size 225/55 R 17 101 V XL; and
– The Vantra LT in the 16-inch version in size 205/65 R 16 C 101/103 H.

Hankook says that along with good wet grip and precise handling, the development of the tyres mainly focuses on a high level of comfort combined with exceptional environmental properties such as low rolling resistance and low rolling noise.

The company says the tyre contour of the Ventus Prime2 is matched to specific application requirements. In conjunction with a high-strength steel cord material for the especially compact belt design the best possible tyre contact area is guaranteed no matter the load of the vehicle. Through the use of an innovative nano-silica tread compound with a specially adapted basic mixture, the rolling resistance has been significantly reduced, while high wet grip properties have been retained.

The Vantra LT was developed in view of the high demands and special requirements of regional and local passenger and commercial transport. Hankook says its engineers focused on excellent wet grip and on the maximization of tread life coupled with increased fuel efficiency by minimizing energy losses during driving. Thanks to numerous new technologies such as the sidewall protect shield and optimized tread block layout and structure, the Vantra LT offers both improved driving properties and safety at high speeds as well as reduced tread wear. This has allowed the tread life potential of the tyre to be increased by up to 12% compared with its predecessor, according to Hankook.

“The superior performance of both products documents our potential of being able to supply the market with Hankook Tire’s state-of-the-art technology and top quality in all vehicle segments – passenger cars, SUVs, commercial vehicles or the popular light truck and minivan segment,” says Byung Il Woo, Hankook vice president of global OE division. “The original fitment tyres for Daimler AG are completely produced and sold within Hankook European facility providing customized and improved product supplies.”