South Korea’s Hankook Tire has expanded its iON tire lineup for electric vehicles with the launch of the iON HT, an all-season tire tailored for large SUVs and light commercial electric vehicles (EVs), the company said on Tuesday.
The iON HT – short for “Highway-Terrain” – is engineered to meet the demands of heavier EVs by offering low rolling resistance for energy efficiency, as well as reinforced durability to support the added weight from battery packs. The tire is rated with an ‘XL’ load capacity, allowing it to carry heavier loads in regular use, particularly for electric trucks and high-capacity SUVs.
Hankook said the tire’s structure delivers “exceptional driving comfort” and is designed to accommodate the high torque output characteristic of electric drivetrains. The new product was introduced at the Electrify Expo 2025 in Los Angeles as part of the company’s broader strategy to support the growing EV segment.
“Electric vehicles, especially in the emerging light truck and large SUV categories, bring new challenges and place unique demands on their tires,” said Rob Williams, President of Hankook Tire America Corp., in the official statement.
Launched in 2022, the iON product family targets EV-specific needs such as reduced rolling resistance, minimal noise generation, and improved longevity under increased stress loads. The new iON HT will be available starting in August in sizes ranging from 18 to 22 inches, with speed ratings of T or H.
Hankook has steadily built its EV tire portfolio across multiple categories, including city buses, motorsport, and now commercial and large personal vehicles, aligning its product development with the evolving demands of the electrified transportation market.
