The new production line, expected to become operational by the fourth quarter of this year, is being built mainly in response to the recent hikes in US import tariffs.

The tyre boasts high mileage, improved safety, and lower rolling resistance, offering cost savings and performance for light commercial vehicles.

In the CV space, Laufenn supplies tyres designed for regional haul, long-distance transport, and urban delivery operations, with 18 sizes available.

The company has opted for a dual leadership structure in order to enhance management efficiency and strategic decision-making, focusing on sustainable growth and profitability.​

Hankook's decision to expand its Hungarian plant by 66,000 sqm and add this CV tyre production line was driven by the strategic goal of strengthening its presence in the European market. By producing TBR tyres locally, the company aims to shorten its route to market.

Hankook has published its 2024 financials with consolidated global sales of EUR 6,380.7 million, compared to EUR 6,329.5 million in 2023. Operating profit increased by 5.3 percent to EUR 1,194.6 million (2023: EUR 940.1 million) in 2024.

The e-SMaRT AU56 City product is now in series production. The first tyres to roll off the production line will be 275/70 R22.5 tyres, designed for the urban electric bus market.

Hankook is to supply its AH37 and DL11 medium and long-distance tyres for fitting on Hino’s L-series trucks produced at Hino Motors Canada Ltd in Woodstock, Ontario, Canada, which are sold across North America market.

Solutrans 2023 was held between 21-25 November at Eurexpo in Lyon, France. Over 1,000 exhibitors and 50,000 guests gathered for the 17th edition of this historic show, centred around the European heavy and light commercial vehicle industry.

The Board of Directors has approved a proposal to build a new EUR 540 million commercial vehicle tyre production line at its Hungarian plant in Rácalmás by 2027.

The e-SMaRT AU56 City product is set to go into series production in Q2 2024. The first tyres to roll off the production line will be 275/70 R22.5 tyres, designed for the urban electric bus market.

Whilst South Korea’s biggest tyre manufacturer prepares for the launch of its new electric bus tyre range later this year, we decided to have a closer look at the rise of this tyre giant hailing from the East.