Hankook has announced its plans for the introduction of new tires for the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2027, along with several improvements that will be implemented this season.
The manufacturer, which is the exclusive tire supplier for the WRC, has scheduled to launch two new winter tire models next year. During the opening of this year’s season in Monte Carlo, Hankook had already revealed that it was working on developing a new range of winter tires, in response to drivers’ criticisms.
New additions to the tire range
Among the highlighted innovations, Hankook will introduce a winter asphalt tire, named SR20A, and a new studded winter tire (SR11). The asphalt tire will feature wider grooves, designed to improve snow and mud evacuation, as well as a new compound more suited for low temperatures.
The ice tire will be built with a new profile and structure that will enhance stability and handling, especially on uneven routes. Teams have given positive feedback on both models during development tests with the current Rally1 vehicles, which will be replaced by the new technical regulations coming in 2027.
Maintenance of current tires
Although these tires are considered new for 2027, Hankook will continue to work on its current asphalt and gravel tires, with changes expected to be implemented soon. Kim Hyeyongi, R&D engineer at Hankook WRC, stated that they are working on a new compound to improve grip of asphalt tires in cold conditions, as well as structures that increase the durability of rain tires.
Moreover, in the case of gravel tires, the emphasis is placed on the durability of the hard compound used in demanding rallies such as Greece, Portugal, and Sardinia. Hankook has also introduced a new soft compound gravel tire ahead of this year’s Safari Rally Kenya, and it is now expected that the new hard compound gravel tire will be showcased at the Rally Acropolis of Greece next month.
Hankook plans to test the new hard compound tires soon, and once the new design is confirmed, will hold discussions with vehicle manufacturers to see if they can supply the new specifications for the second half of the season.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
