The summer passenger tire Hankook K117 Ventus S1 Evo2 is designed for powerful passenger cars of various classes, including sports and luxury. The size range is represented by three diameters - 17, 18 and 19 inches, which also testifies to the fact that this model belongs to the category of high-performance tires.
Like the previous generation tire, the K117 model was created using technologies that came from the DTM championship racing, where the Korean company is the exclusive supplier. Notably, the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) touring car series is one of the most popular racing championships.
The novelty has received several innovative technical solutions, which made it possible to significantly improve the balance between traction characteristics on dry and wet roads, in which, by the way, the previous generation model was already good. In addition, this tire has a marking that fully complies with the recently adopted requirements in the European Union.
Multi Tread Radius
One of the technical innovations in the Hankook K117 Ventus S1 Evo2 tire was the Multi Tread Radius technology, which has proven its effectiveness on DTM tires. Thanks to it, it was possible to obtain a practically rectangular contact patch shape. At the same time, the external pressure is distributed very evenly over it, even with significant lateral acceleration. This made it possible to achieve reliable and stable handling, both on dry and wet surfaces, and most importantly, improved control over the vehicle moving at high speed.
Such capabilities are provided by the innovative three-layer structure of the tread blocks, as well as the stepped arrangement of the shoulder zone blocks of the tread. Thanks to this, during sharp maneuvers, the contact patch increases, which guarantees excellent traction. At the same time, the three-layer structure allows maintaining the traction characteristics of the tire throughout its entire operation.
New rubber compound
As befits the flagship of the entire model range, the Hankook Ventus S1 evo2 tire received an absolutely new rubber compound, the composition of which is distinguished by the presence of silicon-containing components of the latest generation. Their key feature is an optimized system of cross-links between molecules, which made it possible to increase the tear strength, improve resistance to abrasive wear. In addition, the new silica made it possible to increase the resistance of the rubber compound to the effects of high temperatures. Another innovation in the composition of the compound was a special styrene polymer, which significantly improved the grip on wet roads, while reducing rolling resistance.
"Cooling system"
Like racing tires, civilian tires are quite sensitive to the effects of high temperatures. To reduce the heating of the tire during movement, the Korean tire manufacturers placed special spiral-shaped "fins" Cooling Fin at the bottom of the drainage grooves, as well as two-stage recesses. This made it possible to create additional air swirls, thanks to which it was possible to establish a more effective heat removal. As a result, the tire demonstrated a significantly longer service life. As for the aerodynamic characteristics, there was also room for innovative solutions. The sidewalls received a so-called "aerodynamic" design, which, among other things, contributes to a reduction in noise levels.
Main features of the Hankook K117 Ventus S1 Evo2 tire
- Asymmetrical directional tread pattern provides almost ideal balance of traction and handling on dry and wet surfaces;
- Three solid longitudinal ribs, located in the central part of the tread, due to their high structural rigidity, provide extremely clear and precise handling, especially when driving at high speeds;
- The Multi Tread Radius technology made it possible to significantly increase the contact patch area, while maintaining the stability of its size even with significant lateral acceleration;
- Excellent traction throughout the entire operation, thanks to the optimal stiffness of the tread blocks, as well as their three-layer structure.
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