Hankook is set to introduce two new World Rally Championship tyres for 2027, including an all winter asphalt tyre and a new studded ice tyre, as part of its efforts to improve its winter tyre range.
The new asphalt tyre, known as the SR20A, will feature wider grooves to improve the evacuation of snow and slush, and a new compound designed to deal with cold temperatures, while the new ice tyre, the SR11, will have a new profile and structure to improve stability and handling.
Upgrades to Current Tyres
In addition to the new tyres, Hankook is also working on upgrades to its current asphalt and gravel tyres, with changes expected to be made to the tarmac hard and wet tyres to improve grip and handling.
According to Kim Hyeyongi, Hankook WRC R&D engineer, the company is developing a new compound to improve grip on tarmac hard and wet tyres, as well as a new structure to improve handling and durability.
Gravel Tyre Upgrades
Hankook is also focusing on improving the durability of its hard compound gravel tyres, which are used in tough and harsh rallies such as Greece, Portugal, and Sardinia.
A new soft compound gravel tyre was introduced ahead of this year’s Safari Rally Kenya, and now the hard compound gravel tyre is set to undergo changes, with the latest version potentially making its debut at the Acropolis Rally Greece next month.
Testing and Development
Hankook’s development testing is being carried out by current Rally1 cars, which will be phased out as the WRC moves to new technical regulations in 2027.
The company is testing the new hard compound tyres soon and will discuss with car manufacturers the possibility of supplying a new specification for the second half of this year.
With these upgrades and new tyres, Hankook is aiming to improve its performance and provide better support to WRC teams and drivers, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive season ahead.
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