The Tire Cologne 2024: Hankook presents e-SMART City AU56 for electric city buses

It was an exciting conversation at the Hankook stand, where we met with Marketing and Communications Managers Sabine Riedel and Lisa Schmid, as well as Sales Director Roland Hehner and Holger Guse, Sales Manager for trucks. The topics were complex and multifaceted: Where should the power for long-distance transport come from, how do we reduce CO2, and do electric vehicles need special tires? The Hankook quartet answered affirmatively and explained, among other things, the new e-SMART City AU56 to us.

Development of special tires continues in the bus sector as well: For the development of the e-SMART City AU56, Hankook utilized AI-supported design, tests with a digital twin, and 3D-printed tread forms. The e-SMART City AU56 features S-shaped sipes between the lateral and tangential tread blocks that improve block interlocking. This is supposed to extend durability and increase grip, which is necessary given the high torque. Three-dimensional zigzag lines within the tread blocks also contribute to this.

Always new grooves even with worn tread

As the tread depth decreases, hidden grooves and sipes are also revealed, which is enabled by 3D printing technology. This ensures the necessary safety, traction, and adhesion in wet conditions throughout the entire lifecycle. Small, step-shaped blocks provide even wear and prevent stone trapping, which further extends the tire's lifespan.

High mechanical loads are intended to be mitigated by specifically reinforced sidewalls: When city buses typically drive closely to curbs and bus stops, they are supposed to protect the tire from impacts and injuries. The sidewall is designed to make the tire as robust as possible while still meeting all the requirements of everyday urban use. Additional safety is provided by a new three-stage indicator that makes sidewall wear visible at a glance.

Manfred Zoni, Sales Director and Head of Sales Truck & Bus, Hankook Tire Germany, explains:

“We are very proud to introduce the e-SMART City AU56, our first product specifically developed for fully electric city buses. This tire increases efficiency in public transportation and advances the shift to electromobility. The low wear rate allows for long-term use, reducing costs over time. High-strength materials and innovative design ensure durability even under high load conditions. Additionally, its construction makes it ideal for regrooving and retreading, contributing to resource conservation.”

A nice side effect: A design award

The e-SMART City AU56 is designed for regrooving and retreading, enabled by additional tread rubber and a reinforced carcass. With its advanced design and high functionality, the new e-SMART City AU56 already impressed the jury of the Red Dot Design Award 2024. This year, the new Hankook e-SMART City AU56 received the highest award. This honor strengthens Hankook Tire's outstanding position in the global market for electric vehicle tires.