Hankook tires are approved for Kia EV4

Company Hankook Tire has announced that it will supply all-season tires Hankook iON evo AS for the Kia EV4 — the first electric sedan from the Korean brand, which is capable of traveling up to 533 km without recharging in the version with an 81.4 kWh battery.

The Hankook iON evo AS tires are made using the iON Innovative Technology, which, according to the manufacturer, has improved the balance between fuel efficiency, traction, and wear resistance. The composition of the rubber compound was specially developed for the EV tire segment and includes environmentally friendly materials and silica, which, in combination with low-temperature vulcanization technology, have reduced rolling resistance, helping the EV4 to demonstrate the best range among Kia electric vehicles, making it ideal for long-distance travel, Hankook points out.

The tread features 3D Grip Control Sipe lamellae, which improve handling on both dry and wet asphalt, as well as on snow, and the compound has also been upgraded to enhance traction. Additionally, the ribbed structure of the longitudinal groove bottom and the block arrangement scheme reduce the noise level when driving at any speed, while the optimized profile ensures even load distribution in the contact patch, preventing uneven wear, including when using tires on electric vehicles with heavy batteries, and improves lateral stability.

As noted by Hankook, by signing an agreement to supply tires for the EV4, the company has strengthened its position as a key partner for Kia in the process of electrifying the manufacturer's model range. Previously, Hankook tires had already been homologated for the EV3 and EV9 crossovers, and in the future, the company plans to continue expanding its presence in the segment of tires specifically designed for electric vehicles.