Hyundai and Kia Motors Group launched a new type of tire that uses a shape memory alloy module in the wheel to increase grip with one click, thereby providing a safer driving experience in winter road conditions. .
There are six grooves in the tire, each with a shape-memory alloy module in it. When the driver presses a button, power is supplied to the shape memory alloy module. The shape memory alloy modules expand under the influence of electric current and protrude to the surface of the tire, providing the vehicle with a grip similar to snow chains. When the current is no longer applied, the memory alloy returns to its natural shape, hiding within the tire.
It is noted that this tire is still in the development stage and has not yet been put on the market. The innovation is expected to one day be introduced into Hyundai and Kia vehicles, and it will continue to develop new technologies to improve the safety and convenience of its vehicles, said Joon Mo Park, head of the automaker’s advanced chassis development team.
