Hankook will introduce drive tire at MATS

March 24, 2014

Hankook Tire America Corp. will introduce the Smart Flex DL12 long/regional haul drive position TBR tire at the 2014 Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) in Louisville, Ky., March 27-29.

The new tire will be available in the third quarter of 2014 in six sizes:

* 11R22.5 14 and 16 ply;

* 11R24.5 14 and 16 ply;

* 295/75R22.5; and

* 285/75R24.5.

Hankook says the Smart  Flex DL12 provides fleet customers with a long/regional haul drive tire that offers excellent traction, tread wear, handling and stability in all weather conditions. Design features include:

* four-channel full-depth zig-zag groove tread pattern offering excellent traction and tread life;

* optimized carcass structure for better ride and handling;

* improved bead profile for superior retreadability; and

* multiple three-dimensional kerf design that adds traction and helps to prevent irregular wear

“The new Smart Flex DL12 offers fleets nationwide an innovative new drive tire which focuses on traction, handling and durability,” says Brian Sheehey, director of commercial tire sales.  “This new tire provides fleets the security and performance benefits they have been asking for in this segment.”

In addition to the new tire, Hankook will display its recently launched e3 Wide DL07 and e3 Wide TL07 ultra wide base drive and trailer position tires at its booth. Unveiled at the 2013 SEMA show, these tires incorporate Hankook’s spiral-coil technology for improved casing durability, an advanced tread pattern to prevent irregular tread wear. Both are approved for Smartway.

Hankook offers 20 truck tire models providing coverage for all truck and bus tire service applications and is available at commercial tire dealer locations.  Hankook also has a number of passenger car, light truck and commercial truck tire original equipment fitments agreements with multiple global, premium vehicle manufacturers.

For more information visit www.hankooktireusa.com