Hankook Tire Supplies Original Equipment Tires for Kia "EV2"... Expands EV Series Portfolio

by Oh Hyungil

Published 24 Mar.2026 08:39(KST)

EV-Dedicated "ION Evo" and "ION GT"

Hankook Tire & Technology announced on March 24 that it will supply the performance tires "ION Evo" and "ION GT" from its world-first full-lineup electric vehicle dedicated tire brand "ION" as original equipment tires for Kia's small electric sports utility vehicle (SUV) "EV2".

Hankook Tire & Technology announced on the 24th that it will supply the performance tires "I'ON Evo" and "I'ON GT" from the world's first full-lineup electric vehicle exclusive tire brand "I'ON" as original equipment tires for Kia's compact electric sports utility vehicle (SUV) "EV2". Hankook Tire

The company will supply the "ION Evo" and "ION GT" in 18-inch and 16-inch sizes. Both products feature the "ION Innovative Technology," a proprietary EV-specialized technology system developed under the leadership of Hyunbum Cho, Chairman of Hankook & Company Group. This technology delivers four core performance attributes-low noise, reduced rolling resistance, perfect grip, and enhanced mileage-maximizing driving performance for electric vehicles.

The ION Evo has increased cornering stiffness by 10% and is equipped with a super-fiber aramid hybrid reinforced belt, providing outstanding handling stability at high speeds. The tire’s tread design features optimized transverse and longitudinal groove widths for improved drainage, and a state-of-the-art EV-specific compound further strengthens braking and traction on wet surfaces.

Its noise reduction technology lowers in-cabin noise by up to 18%, creating a more comfortable driving environment. Rolling resistance, which affects EV driving range, has been significantly reduced to improve energy efficiency by up to 6%. The use of a dedicated compound blending high-concentration silica with eco-friendly materials, as well as optimized profile structure, dramatically reduces abnormal wear and increases mileage by up to 15%.

The ION GT is characterized by its use of internationally certified sustainable materials (ISCC PLUS), including bio-based silica, recycled PET fiber tire cords, recycled carbon black, and natural resins. It has received EU Tire Label Grade A ratings in three performance categories-rolling resistance, wet grip, and noise-demonstrating its excellence in both performance and sustainability.

A Hankook Tire official stated, "With this original equipment supply, our global top-tier technological leadership in the electric vehicle tire market has been reaffirmed. We have also significantly strengthened our position as a core partner for brand electrification projects by expanding our 'EV Series' portfolio, which now includes the 'EV2,' 'EV3,' 'EV4,' and 'EV9' models."