Hankook Tire Supplies Ultra-High Performance Tires for Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Coupe

by Woo Sooyoun

Published 06 Aug.2024 08:48(KST)

Hankook Tire & Technology (hereinafter Hankook Tire) announced on the 6th that it will supply its ultra-high-performance tire 'Ventus S1 evo Z' as original equipment tires for the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe.

This supply marks Hankook Tire's first contract with the high-performance sports car brand Mercedes-AMG. The supplied Ventus S1 evo Z tires will be engraved with the 'MO1' symbol, which Mercedes-AMG grants only to tires that have optimal grip and precise handling performance. A Hankook Tire official emphasized, "This signifies that Hankook Tire has passed Mercedes-AMG's strict standards and proven its top-tier technological capabilities."

Hankook Tire Ventus S1 evo Z equipped on the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe <br>[Photo by Hankook Tire]

Hankook Tire Ventus S1 evo Z equipped on the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe
[Photo by Hankook Tire]

Hankook Tire designed the Ventus S1 evo Z with a customized sport pattern and modified compounds to provide optimal grip even in extreme driving conditions. This allows the dynamic handling performance of the 585-horsepower all-wheel-drive sports car to be maintained.

Another feature is the wide tread design. A specially designed pattern is applied to enhance stability further. Equipped with an aramid-reinforced belt made of high-strength advanced fiber material, the tire's performance on dry surfaces is also improved. The aramid material prevents unnecessary tire deformation caused by centrifugal force at high speeds. It also minimizes tread deformation due to lateral forces when changing direction, enabling optimal handling and control.

Additionally, a high-concentration silica compound is applied to deliver improved grip and rigidity in various weather conditions. This compound allows the tread to effectively engage with the road surface, maximizing braking performance. It also withstands temperature increases caused by extreme use, maintaining consistent tire performance over time.

For the development of this product, Hankook Tire conducted dry handling tests at the N?rburgring Nordschleife, a high-performance car test circuit. This circuit features 181 corners and an elevation change of over 300 meters, making it known as one of the most challenging racing courses in the world. The Ventus S1 evo Z demonstrated outstanding performance even during tests exceeding a top speed of 305.77 km/h.