Falken develops ‘sporty’ tire for hybrid vehicles

Offenbach/Main, Germany – Falken Tire is to unveil a new concept tire, which it says offers sporty feel to hybrid vehicles.

Debuting this month on Mitsubishi’s Concept XR-PHEV II small SUV, powered by a new PHEV system (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle), the outer third of Falken’s concept tire comprises a “primarily low rolling resistance surface with intelligently placed water dispersion grooves” to prevent hydroplaning and enhanced wet grip.

To offer better grip under hard cornering, explained Falken, the inner third of the tire features a curved surface that comes in greater contact with the road whilst the car is being pushed harder.

Falken’s UK director Matt Smith says the new tire “could help SUV drivers to achieve efficiency without sacrificing a sportier driving experience.”

No production date has been set for the tire.