RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd.'s Falken Tires business has introduced the Azenis FK460 A/S Silent Core designed for electric vehicles (EVs).
Falken's Silent Core technology adapts the ultra-high-performance, all-season Azenis FK460 A/S to the needs of EVs, reducing tire cavity noise with a foam insert strategically placed along the underside of the tire tread.
Falken said its engineers used tire-noise simulation to ensure optimized development and placement for a quieter, more comfortable ride.
Like the Azenis FK460 A/S, the FK460 A/S Silent Core was developed with Falken's Advanced 4D Nano Technology, producing a rubber compound that achieves the multifaceted balance of high-performance capability, four-season traction and long-tread life, the company said.
The Azenis FK460 A/S Silent Core also maintains the same intricate tread pattern as the original FK460, with emerging grooves and interlocking sipes ensuring the tire delivers more poise and stability in inclement conditions while also reducing air-channeling noise. Additionally, Canyon Groove Technology enhances braking performance in the snow, the company said.
"The product development team worked diligently to ensure the FK460 A/S Silent Core provides the same exhilarating performance drivers expect from the Azenis FK460, while further improving the quiet ride this tire already delivers," Tsuyoshi Johnson, Falken's director of product planning, said. "We believe the FK460 A/S Silent Core achieves this and more. ..."
The tire was engineered to complement popular EV models, including Audi E-Tron S, Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, Genesis GV60 and GV70, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Lucid Motors Air, Mercedes-Benz EQS (sedan and SUV), Nissan Ariya, Polestar 2 and Tesla Models 3, S, X and Y.
The initial roll out will include 16 sizes, with available rim sizing of 18 to 22 inches. The tire comes with a 50,000-mile limited tread-life warranty and Falken's Road Hazard Protection.
Pricing information was not disclosed.
"Adding the FK460 A/S Silent Core to our product lineup helps us support the growing number of electric vehicles on the road today and for years to come," Rick Brennan, Falken's vice president of strategic planning, said.
"We understand the needs of today's EV drivers, and know a quiet, comfortable ride is important to them. Pairing that with the all-season capability of our FK460 ensures our customers remain safe and confident behind the wheel."