The Korean tyre manufacturer, Hankook, is aiming to make innovative tyres that would function efficiently without requiring any air. Known as the iFlex non-pneumatic tyre concept, this invention will revolutionise the driving experience as the tyres will possess all the good characteristics of conventional tyres, in addition to the stamina for high speeds and eco-friendly properties.
Although the company is keen on keeping specifications of the product to themselves, rumours say that a prototype is currently undergoing severe testing, including assessment of its resilience, rigidity, slalom, steadiness and speed.
One of the most significant aspects of the tyre would be its special material called the uni-material, which makes it more suitable for a green environment. Moreover, the new material makes it easier for the tyre to be recycled and reconstructed in four stages rather than eight, thereby reducing the company’s carbon footprint. Currently, Hankook has not revealed any plans of large scale manufacturing of iFlex tyres for implementation in vehicles.