Hyundai Motor Group has signed its third memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Michelin to co-develop advanced tire technologies, extending a partnership that began in 2017 and expanded in 2022. The companies will focus on extreme-low rolling resistance, high-performance EV tires and virtual development systems aimed at meeting the demands of future mobility platforms.
Under the new three-year framework, Hyundai Motor Group and Michelin will target several engineering milestones, including tire efficiency, enhanced handling and improved braking performance. The firms said the collaboration will also address the requirements of premium electric vehicles, which typically demand higher load capacity, longer range capability and stronger safety characteristics.
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“Leveraging the specialized capabilities of both entities will yield advanced solutions for the market,” said Yongsuk Shin, Vice President and Head of Genesis Engineering Design Center at Hyundai Motor Group.
The agreement broadens the scope of joint virtual development activities, including a dedicated system for off-road tire engineering and expanded work on Michelin’s SmartGrip technologies. These efforts aim to streamline testing processes and improve braking efficiency for next-generation vehicle platforms, including electric and autonomous models.
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Hyundai Motor Group said the collaboration builds on earlier successes. The initial 2017 MOU led to the development of tire specifications for the Hyundai Ioniq 5, while the second agreement in 2022 contributed to improvements in tire wear prediction and braking performance. Both companies intend to leverage these achievements as they pursue new technical breakthroughs in the coming years.