Hankook has defined mid to long-term objectives to reduce greenhouse gases at all production sites around the world, in order to actively support the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. In 2019, the tyre maker defined its objectives through to 2030 and regularly reports on successful steps and improvements. By 2040, the company will strive to reduce greenhouse gases to 60 percent of the emissions recorded in 2018. Carbon neutrality is to be achieved by 2050. Along the entire value chain – from research and development to the procurement of raw materials, production, sales, usage, recycling and the disposal of products – all business activities and the entire life cycle of products are taken into account.
Manfred Sandbichler, motorsport director Europe, Hankook sheds light on one of the company’s latest ventures – the iON Race. Hankook will be supplying tyres to all participating teams in the 2023 FIA Formula E Championship.
How was the development of the iON race?
It all started with the car. We need the precise car specification for our analysis and implementation approaches. How powerful is the engine and how much does the car weigh? What drive concept does it use? Then you have to inform the partners and define what tyre dimensions are required. In the end, all these factors influence tyre performance. If you use a wider running surface, the tyre performance may be better, but you then have an issue with poorer aerodynamics. It is a very complex and complicated matter, and you have to very accurately evaluate where improvements need to be made.
What was the biggest challenge?
The objective was to develop and make a tyre, which works in both wet and dry conditions. That was by far the biggest challenge in this project. Just one tyre will be used now in Formula E. Unlike in other racing series, it is not possible to switch between slicks and wets. The drivers will race on one tyre – no matter what the weather is. And we are ensuring that the tyre also performs superbly and gives the driver a good and safe feeling.
How does sustainability influence development?
The sustainability aspect was very important. We are also trying to be more environmentally friendly in the way we utilise raw materials, and to recycle the maximum quantity of “tyre ingredients” or use as many recycled ingredients as possible. All suppliers must pull together to meet the sustainability approach of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.