Last year, Kumho Tire, which was recognized for its technology in Europe, has embarked on technological development to respond to the era of future vehicles. The plan is to strengthen its position in the global market by supplying better products and expanding its distribution network.
According to Kumho Tire on the 25th, the company is seeking to commercialize smart tires. Smart tires have sensor modules attached inside them, allowing for monitoring tire conditions while driving. They immediately alert the driver to any risk factors related to the tires. Additionally, the company is working towards commercialization by recently applying a smart tire system specifically designed for railway vehicles.
Kumho Tire is currently working on the development of 'airborne tires' and 'airless tires' for advanced urban air mobility (UAM). Airless refers to something that has no air. The company is also utilizing big data and artificial intelligence technologies in tire development. It aims to establish a 'tire digital twin' environment to predict tire performance in order to respond to the mobility industry. Research and development efforts continue with the goal of converting all tire materials and supplies to sustainable materials by 2045. Currently, the proportion of sustainable materials is 80%.
Kumho Tire has received recognition for its technology, achieving excellent results in performance evaluations conducted in Europe and the United States last year. In the summer tire performance test organized by Germany's largest magazine, Auto Bild, the Ecsta HS52 recorded an overall third place. In the summer tire performance test conducted by the specialized magazine, it ranked fourth overall. This is the highest score among domestic companies. In the consumer satisfaction survey for new passenger car tires conducted by JD Power in the United States, it ranked third among 18 global brands.
Based on its technological prowess, Kumho Tire achieved its highest revenue ever with 4.5381 trillion won and an operating profit of 590.6 billion won last year, targeting a 10% growth rate for this year. A Kumho Tire official noted, "We will prove our competitiveness on the global stage through the development of various future-oriented products and technologies," adding, "We will leap to become a brand worthy of the 'technology powerhouse.'"