Hankook partners with Rinspeed in micro vehicle project

Neu-Isenburg, Germany – Hankook Tire has teamed up with Rinspeed on their new “microSNAP” concept car, the Korean tire maker announced 14 March.

The concept vehicle is a micro vehicle system with interchangeable chassis and bodies, which was presented during the Geneva International Motor Show 2019, earlier this month.

Hankook will be supplying the micro vehicle with its flagship-UHP Ventus S1 evo line in the size 195/40R17.

The microSNAP features a chassis with an electric drive and variable superstructures, including a robotised change station, all targeted at the autonomous local transport of goods and people.

"Being the official partner on this visionary micro vehicle proves Hankook’s technological know-how on shaping the future of mobility”, says Han-Jun Kim, president of Hankook Tire Europe.

Hankook is launching the Ventus S1 evo 3 worldwide this spring.

The tire, Hankook claims, offers “a very safe and sporty comfortable driving experience” in both dry and wet conditions.

In addition to Hankook, the Rinspeed also partnered with a number of other technology companies for the development of the new vehicle.

FoamPartner, the Swiss polyurethane foam specialist, supplied several foam solutions for automotive interiors, for example, headliners, door panels and armrests.

Rinspeed is a Zumikon, Switzerland-based creative think tank and mobility lab for the automotive industry.