Hankook Wins OE Fitments on Two BMW Models

July 19, 2021

The Hankook Ventus S1 evo Z will be original equipment on the BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M, in size 255/40ZR21 102Y on the front and size 265/40ZR21 105Y on the rear axle. The tire "has been adapted to the specific requirements" of BMW, according to Hankook officials.

"The Ventus S1 evo Z has been equipped with an aramid composite material in a double-layer carcass. This prevents deformations caused by possible heat development during extensive use. Deformations would otherwise lead to an undesired increase in the rolling circumference and less precise handling at high speeds.

"Aramid fibres are extremely heat-resistant and are characterized by their very high strength, as well as good damping properties, with a low weight relative to their size.

"The new Hankook tread pattern gains additional stability from high-strength steels in the belt and bead areas, which, in combination with the reinforced sidewall, ensure straight-line stability and steering precision, as well as sporty, dynamic handling."

Hankook also focused on high levels of grip in different weather conditions when designing the tire.

"The tread compound used is borrowed from Hankook’s motorsport research and development. For an optimal interaction of fillers, silica and natural resins, the latest generation of functional polymers have been used in the mixture. This ensures a consistently high level of grip across a wide range of applications.

"The compound technology used in production originates from Hankook’s racing tire development, where smaller material batches are processed gently, over significantly longer periods of time."

The Ventus S1 evo Z is available in 15 sizes to fit rims ranging from 19 inches to 21 inches in diameter.

“Our company was founded 80 years ago,” says Jeongho Park, executive vice president and director of Hankook's OE division, “So it’s certainly a special gift that our latest product has been able to win over BMW M GmbH, a particularly prestigious customer from the sports car manufacturer segment.”

"Throughout the year additional sizes will complement the line-up, with a focus on the high-end range," say Hankook officials.