Are you going on a winter sports holiday? Then a set of good winter tires is a must, but snow chains could also save your holiday from a deep and snowy valley. In a literal sense. Forgot snow chains? No problem. At least, not anymore if it is up to Hyundai and Kia. The brands show an interesting innovation: winter tires with an integrated alternative to snow chains.
Hyundai and Kia are launching a special piece of technology into the world: a real snow chain tire. Ideal for those who are forgetful. End up at the bottom of a hill in a snowy area because you pulled out the skates but not the snow chains? If it were up to Hyundai and Kia, they would offer the solution for this.
The two brands present their so-called snow chain tire, containing an integrated alternative to snow chains. The special piece of technology consists of components that are located in the wheel and that extend above the tread of the rubber at the touch of a button. Folding snow chains around the tire is no longer possible with this technique.
Far future music? Certainly not. At least, not according to Joon Mo Park, head of the Advanced Chassis Development Team at Hyundai and Kia. “One day this technology will become a reality on our models. This innovation reflects our commitment to turning advanced technologies into practical solutions,” said the Korean savvy.
Hyundai and Kia have applied for a patent for these snow chain tires in South Korea and the United States, among others. Mass production is being considered, although the brands indicate that the technology still needs further development and regulations need to be adjusted. So it will be a while before you find these special winter wheels on your Kia Niro or Hyundai Kona.
– Thanks for information from Autoweek.nl