“Hankook Tire & Technology announced on the 16th that they will supply the ultra-high-performance super sports tire ‘Ventus S1 Evo Z’ as the original equipment tire (OET) for BMW’s high-performance sedan ‘M5’ 7th generation model.
The 7th generation M5 from BMW has enhanced overall performance by adopting a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system that introduces an electric motor to the powertrain for the first time in the model’s history. The vehicle required tires that could withstand a higher load due to the increased weight and maximize the characteristics of the ‘M5’ in various road conditions. To meet this requirement, Hankook Tire developed the Ventus S1 Evo Z optimized for the M5 through close cooperation with BMW.
Hankook Tire explained that they focused on adjusting the performance of the Ventus S1 Evo Z to fully exhibit the unique driving dynamics of high-performance sedans while reducing fuel consumption with low rolling resistance. After going through about three years of development to meet standards, the tire acquired BMW’s original tire symbol, the ‘Star Mark’.
The Ventus S1 Evo Z was developed to provide high steering stability even with increased load. The wide contact patch and wide spacing between tread blocks maintain excellent handling performance, and the reinforced aramid hybrid belt enhances performance on dry surfaces. It minimizes unnecessary deformation due to centrifugal force or lateral force during high-speed driving.
The tread features a dedicated material tailored to match the handling characteristics of the BMW M5 precisely. By adding various high-performance resins, it provides optimal grip over a wide temperature range. The Ventus S1 Evo Z combines outstanding driving dynamics with low aerodynamic resistance, offering comfort during everyday driving even in extreme driving environments like racing tracks.
For the development of this product, Hankook Tire applied artificial intelligence (AI) support algorithms to the driving test process. They gathered various data to secure optimal handling performance by applying numerous conditions in virtual spaces and racing tracks. Additionally, test drives were conducted at the ‘Nürburgring Nordschleife’ and ‘Nardo Track’ to confirm perfect combinations of safety and cornering.”