Hankook releases new light truck tires
Hankook introduces new summer tires Hankook Vantra Transit, designed specifically for light trucks and compact vans, and, according to the manufacturer, combines high durability with reliability and low rolling resistance.
The company says the new product was developed in response to the growing popularity of commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of up to 7.5 tons, which are used for cargo transportation, and in the European market, this segment has grown by 15% in 2024 alone.
Hankook Vantra Transit tires are distinguished by an increased tread width and a square contact patch, and the tread pattern has been optimized for each size, which has increased the lifespan by 18% compared to the previous generation tires. Additionally, the reinforced carcass structure provides high load capacity, and according to Hankook, the new breaker belt structure improves stability when the vehicle is fully loaded.
The tread edges feature 3D GripKontrol Sipes lamellas, which reduce tread deformation and help the tires maintain their optimal shape, while also reducing braking distances. The increased depth of the lamellas improves traction and stabilizes its level as the tire wears, and compared to the previous model, braking efficiency on dry and wet roads has increased by 6 and 9%, respectively.
The tire manufacturing process uses a rubber compound with a polymer added, which has a higher number of functional groups, allowing for improved dispersion of silica due to increased chemical bonds. This has reduced rolling resistance by 15%, ensuring fuel savings.
"By launching Vantra Transit, we are expanding our commercial vehicle lineup and offering a highly efficient solution for professional carriers, — said Choongho Pak, President and Chief Operating Officer of Hankook Tire Europe. — The new tire combines high durability with the ability to increase safety and save fuel, and these are key factors for customers who use commercial vehicles on a daily basis and closely monitor their expenses».
The tires are available in 32 sizes, ranging from 155R13C to 225/55R17C. Hankook also offers a range of other products for the light truck segment, such as the summer tire Vantra LT and the winter Winter i*cept LV, and last year, the company introduced the e-Vantra line, specifically designed for electric light trucks.