Hankook Tire & Technology said on Wednesday it will supply original equipment (OE) tires for Tesla’s updated Model Y, known internally as Juniper, reinforcing its position as a key supplier in the growing electric vehicle (EV) market.
The company will provide two specialized tire models for the facelifted electric SUV: the iON evo AS SUV and the Ventus S1 evo ev. Both tire lines are engineered specifically for electric vehicles and aim to enhance performance, efficiency, and safety under various driving conditions.
The iON evo AS SUV is an all-season tire designed to reduce road noise through a low-noise tread pattern and to boost grip on dry, wet, and snowy surfaces using an advanced compound made with eco-friendly materials. The tire also incorporates technologies tailored to handle the unique demands of EVs, including weight distribution and torque delivery.
The Ventus S1 evo ev, meanwhile, is aimed at high-performance electric vehicles. It features a reinforced structure built from an aramid hybrid fiber double carcass and a high-rigidity bead, helping it manage the instantaneous torque output of heavier electric vehicles. A specialized tread design improves contact with the road and mitigates hydroplaning risks.
Hankook Tire has steadily expanded its presence in the EV segment through supply deals with major automakers. In addition to Tesla, the company supplies tires to Porsche, BMW, Hyundai Motor Company, Kia, Lucid, BYD, and others. The partnership with Tesla marks another step in Hankook’s broader strategy to align its product offerings with the electrification trend in the global automotive industry.