Hybrid Tyre Concept brings out the best in hybrid Crossover and SUVs
Inspired by motorcycle rubber, Falken shows how future tyres could meet hybrid SUV driver’s challenging demands for both extended range and dynamic handling
A novel tyre that features different tread areas could point the way to how drivers can enjoy both sporty handling and efficiency for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) SUVs. To date, engineers have struggled to develop tyres that offer low rolling resistance to increase the car’s range whilst offering sharp, sporty dynamics expected by sporty SUV drivers.
Debuting this month on Mitsubishi’s Concept XR-PHEV II small SUV, powered by a new PHEV system, the outer third of Falken’s concept tyre comprises a primarily low rolling resistance slick surface with intelligently placed water dispersion grooves that prevent hydroplaning and also enhance wet road grip. To offer better grip under hard cornering, the inner third of the tyre features a curved (like a motorcycle) surface that comes in greater contact with the road whilst the car is being pushed harder.
“Consumers want to have the best range with a hybrid but aren’t prepared to sacrifice an ‘involving’ driving experience with sporting dynamics,” says Matt Smith, Falken’s UK Director. “A new type of tyre is needed and this concept highlights how Falken could help SUV drivers to achieve efficiency without sacrificing a sportier driving experience.”
No production date has been set for the novel tyre but Falken believes that such bespoke tyre technology is the way tyre design will progress. “Tyres play a critical role in the way a vehicle drives and stops,” adds Smith. “Expect to see more bespoke tyres to extract the best all round performance for a car.” Earlier this month Falken announced it now produces a bespoke version of its tyres for the new Volkswagen Passat.
Press Contact
Nick Bailey, 44 (0) 7813 956664
About Falken Tyre Europe
The Falken Tyre Europe GmbH is the European affiliate of the Japanese tyre manufacturer Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd., with about 23,000 employees the sixth largest tyre manufacturer worldwide. From its location in Offenbach/Main, the company markets and sells a complete tyre portfolio for passenger cars, trucks, pick-ups and SUVs as original equipment and for the entire European retrofitting market. All Falken products comply with the ISO standards 9001 and 14001. Developed and tested in the world’s most demanding racing series, the Falken tyres provide the maximum of individual driving enjoyment – at outstanding value for money. Further information under: http://www.falken-europe.com
Tags:
