Hankook Tire announced it will expand its OE portfolio in North America to supply tires for Ford’s new 2016 F-650/F-750 medium-duty trucks. Selected as an OE supplier for one of the leading automakers in the medium-duty truck segment, Hankook Tire will provide Ford with four different patterns (AH11, AH22, DH07 and DH15). The AH11 and DH07 will be available in 245/70R19.5 and 265/70R19.5, while the AH22 and DH15 will be available in size 275/80R22.5.
Hankook Tire stated it has been involved in the development of the Ford 2016 F-650/F-750 since 2013 and this OE contract represents a strategic advancement of Hankook Tire as a global credible partner in North America.
The AH11 was designed for trucks operating in urban conditions. The tire’s enhanced resistance to uneven wear as well as chips and cuts from external shocks or heavy loads helps to significantly prolong its lifespan. Furthermore, the AH11 adopts a structural design that ensures maximum user performance for extended high-speed driving. The advanced tire also meets the needs of commercial vehicle drivers with its exceptional fuel efficiency.
The DH07 incorporates an optimized pattern design for the Ford 2016 F-650/F-750, as well as a belt structure that minimizes the motion of its interior belts. This greatly reduces the heat generated by the tires and improves overall driving stability, according to Hankook. Simultaneously, the DH07’s 3-D kerf technology allows it to maintain traction and offers a higher mileage lifespan based on its strong resistance to external damage, the company adds.
With a tread compound focused on reducing abnormal wear, the AH22 offer superior driving comfort and improved handling performance. The DH15 provides drivers with excellent braking control as well as enhanced stability in all-season conditions including snowy roads.
“Hankook Tire is currently focusing on diversifying our radial truck tire line-up, and the recent Ford 2016 F-650/F-750 OE supply agreement with Ford will be the foundation that we build on to accelerate our business in North America,” said Seung Hwa Suh, vice chairman and CEO of Hankook Tire.
Hankook Tire’s long-term partnership with Ford began in 1999 and the company previously supplied tires for a number of Ford vehicles, including the Explorer, Edge, Mustang and F-150.
