Hankook Tires Unveil Enhanced 'iON' Technology Ahead of Formula E Season 12 Testing

Hankook Tire Technology is taking significant steps forward as it gears up for the pre-season tests of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship's twelfth season. This event will take place from October 27 to October 31 at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain. With an exhilarating new calendar that spans across 11 iconic cities and features 17 electrifying rounds, Season 12 promises to be the most ambitious yet.

A Premier Testing Phase for a New Season

As the exclusive tire supplier for the Formula E series, Hankook has been pivotal in the development and advancement of electric racing technology since its first partnership in Season 9. This pre-season testing offers teams and drivers a critical platform to fine-tune their cars and tire strategies ahead of the first race in São Paulo on December 6.

Hankook's GEN3 Evo iON Race tires, which have already demonstrated exceptional performance in past seasons, will be at the forefront during these tests. These tires are designed to deliver optimal grip, efficiency, and durability, allowing teams to push the limits while ensuring safety under high-stress racing conditions. The reliability of Hankook's tires is underscored by their absence of tire-related incidents since their introduction.

The Women’s Test Goes Global

In an additional noteworthy development, the pre-season tests will feature a Women’s Test. Scheduled for October 31, this will provide female drivers from all ten Formula E teams with additional track time. This initiative aims to promote diversity in racing and enhance the representation of women in motorsports. Collaborating with the FIA Girls on Track program, Hankook will host around 100 young women aged 12 to 18, allowing them the unique opportunity to participate in workshops and engage with professional drivers.

Enhancing Performance with Driver Feedback

Feedback from drivers highlights the reliability and performance of the iON Race tires. Maximilian Günther from DS PENSKE, fresh off victories in both the Tokyo and Jeddah E-Prix, praised the tire's exceptional handling and grip. He emphasized that these tires enabled him to maintain competitive speeds while navigating the tracks under various conditions. As the team gears up for another season, Günther aims to build on his previous momentum, motivated by the continued use of these high-performance tires.

Driving Forward with Sustainability

Hankook's commitment extends beyond performance. The company has made it a mission to advance sustainability in motorsports. As part of this initiative, Hankook is active in global sustainability programs and has consistently been recognized on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices since 2011. This year marks their sixth consecutive inclusion, which underscores their ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.

Looking Ahead to an Exciting Season

Formula E's Season 12 is set to not only thrill motorsport enthusiasts but also pave the way for advancements in electric vehicle technology. With major urban centers becoming venues for electric racing, Hankook’s role becomes even more significant as it seeks to innovate in a rapidly evolving racing landscape.

The season opener in São Paulo is regional anticipation, but all eyes will be on the pre-season tests in Valencia. As racers prepare to unleash their full potential with the help of Hankook’s advanced tire technology, fans can expect an exhilarating showcase of skill, speed, and innovation. With the commitment of Hankook to uphold and elevate standards in motorsport, the future of electric racing looks brighter than ever.

Conclusion

As Hankook Tire Technology continues to set benchmarks in both performance and environmental sustainability, it leads the path forward not just for the upcoming season but for the future of motorsport itself. The excitement surrounding Season 12 of Formula E is palpable, and the innovations being tested will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of electric racing moving forward.