FRANKFURT, Germany (Sept. 16, 2015) — Hankook Tire Co. Ltd. has unveiled its Ventus Prime3 at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, which runs through Sept. 27.
The Ventus Prime3, considered a significant improvement over its predecessor Prime2 line, is the flagship for the latest generation of the company's Ventus performance line, featuring improved handling and braking performance on dry surfaces as well as enhanced performance capability in wet conditions, the tire maker said.
The tires will be available in a range of sizes covering rim diameters from 15 to 18 inches.
Hankook said the most significant improvement was made in the tire's dry handling performance capabilities. By applying the company's optimized design technology, the tire's enhanced tread block stiffness increases the actual contact area ratio. In addition, the dual stiffness of the rib and the solid outside block provide further stability and superior handling performance while the rib tread reduces the tire's rolling resistance, Hankook said.
The tire maker also said it improved the tire's braking performance in wet conditions by adding a four-channel groove that allows for rapid drainage. The depth of each groove is determined by its position on the tire in order to ensure that the tire remains balanced and is capable of delivering improved performance in both wet and dry conditions, the company said.
The tire also features noise care pitch and an optimized lateral groove angle to lower the amount of exterior noise created by the tires.
The tires include a Visual Alignment Indicator (VAI) system on the shoulders to check tire alignment.
The wide steel belt layer and high stiffness bead of the Ventus Prime3 contribute to better handling and steering response; a high grip silica compound improves dry and wet traction as well as reducing rolling resistance, Hankook said.
“By focusing on both performance and safety, our new Ventus Prime3 gives drivers access to some of the tire industry's most remarkable advancements,” said Seung Hwa Suh, vice chairman and CEO of Hankook Tire.
“The company's dedication to continuous R&D investment has helped us to carve out a name for ourselves as a global leader in tire technology. We look forward to presenting these tires and the rest of our groundbreaking line-up at the upcoming IAA Motor Show.”