Hankook Tire's Commitment to Excellence in WRC's EKO Acropolis Rally Greece
Hankook Tire at the EKO Acropolis Rally Greece
Hankook Tire & Technology, a global leader in tire manufacturing, is all set to dominate the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) with its participation in the EKO Acropolis Rally Greece. Scheduled from June 26 to 29, this rally, known for its rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions, promises to be a tough test for competitors and equipment alike.
The Challenge of the Acropolis
Taking place in and around Lamia in central Greece, the Acropolis Rally stands out as one of the most challenging rounds of the WRC season. Renowned for its rocky paths, steep mountain trails, and volatile weather, it is not a rally for the faint-hearted. This year, competitors will tackle 17 Special Stages covering a total distance of 345.76 km, making it the longest route in this event since 2021.
With temperatures soaring near 40°C, drivers will navigate through gusty winds and exposed rocky terrains while pushing their cars to speeds of up to 200 km/h. Under these conditions, the importance of tire performance cannot be overstated; durability and grip will play crucial roles in determining the outcomes.
The Dynapro R213: Engineered for Performance
To tackle the unique demands of the Acropolis rally, Hankook Tire will provide the Dynapro R213, an extreme all-terrain tire designed specifically for rallying. Known for its shock absorption capabilities on rough surfaces, the Dynapro R213 is available in both hard and soft compounds. This versatility allows for enhanced durability, superior grip, and responsive handling.
Having enjoyed success in recent rallies, including those in Portugal and Sardinia, the Dynapro R213 has proven its mettle under rigorous conditions, maintaining consistent performance despite the stresses of repeated impacts and heavy loads. With competitors relying heavily on their tires, Hankook’s engineering shines through.
Leading the WRC
Currently at the top of the WRC1 driver standings are experienced drivers Elfyn Evans and Sébastien Ogier from the Toyota GAZOO Racing World Rally Team. However, the competing teams from Hyundai Shell Mobis and M-Sport Ford are keen to challenge the status quo and could make significant breakthroughs during the rally. As this season unfolds, all eyes are on the Acropolis to see if the leaderboards will shift.
A Broader Commitment to Motorsport
Beyond the Acropolis, Hankook Tire showcases its commitment to motorsports by sponsoring approximately 70 events worldwide, including the WRC itself. By leveraging real-world competition data from these events, Hankook continuously improves its tire technology, ensuring drivers have access to the best equipment available for their challenges. Starting in 2025, Hankook will be the exclusive tire supplier for all WRC classes over a three-year term, following extensive testing that spans over 2,000 km across eight countries in collaboration with the FIA and leading automotive manufacturers.
In conclusion, as the WRC rolls into the Acropolis rally, Hankook Tire's innovative engineering and strategies are set to make a substantial impact in the world of rally racing, thus solidifying their reputation as a leader in high-performance tires.