[CES 2022] Hankook Tire unveils 'i-Flex' airless concept tire optimized for autonomous driving

By Kim Joo-heon Posted : January 5, 2022, 17:41 Updated : January 5, 2022, 17:41

[Courtesy of Hankook Tire & Technology]

LAS VEGAS -- At CES 2022 in Las Vegas, Hankook Tire & Technology, a top tire maker in South Korea, will showcase "i-Flex," an airless concept tire that is optimized for autonomous driving mobility as it requires no air pressure maintenance. The tire's "multi-layer interlocking spoke" design is based on the three-dimensional cellular structure of living organisms and absorbs shocks from the road.

Hankook Tire's i-Flex is a non-pneumatic concept tire that is safe from accidents caused by punctures due to its airless feature. The tire is 10 inches in size with a width of 105 millimeters and a diameter of 400 mm. The tire can absorb road shocks and bear a load. The tire's "multi-layer interlocking spoke" design is based on the three-dimensionalized cellular structure of living organisms and absorbs shocks from the road while driving. The hexagonal and square cell structures of different rigidity are organically interlocked for stable load support.

Hankook Tire said that the new tire would be showcased through the exhibition booth of South Korea's Hyundai auto group, which will unveil its plug and drive (PnD) module based on robotics technology. PnD is an all-in-one mobility solution that combines an in-wheel motor with steering, suspension, and brake systems. Hankook Tire's i-Flex maximized PnD features.

 
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