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Hankook Tire has unveiled a thrilling brand film that bridges the electrified precision of Formula E with the rugged intensity of the World Rally Championship (WRC). As the exclusive tire supplier for both FIA World Championships, Hankook orchestrated a bold car swap, placing top drivers from each series into the other’s vehicle to test its cutting-edge tire technology. The result is a dynamic showcase of Hankook’s iON Race and Dynapro R213 tires, proving their versatility across contrasting motorsport disciplines.
Key Highlights
- Unique Car Swap: Formula E’s Maximilian Günther drove the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 Hybrid, while WRC’s Adrien Fourmaux piloted the GEN3 Evo Formula E car.
- Tire Technology Spotlight: The film highlights Hankook’s iON Race tire for Formula E and Dynapro R213 tire for WRC, showcasing grip and stability.
- Driver Reactions: Günther praised the rally car’s grip, while Fourmaux lauded the Formula E car’s responsiveness.
- Championship Endorsements: Leaders from both series commended Hankook’s innovation and ability to unite two motorsport worlds.
- Global Release: The film and behind-the-scenes content will be available on Hankook’s website and social channels.
The film juxtaposes the controlled precision of Formula E’s city circuits with the unpredictable chaos of WRC’s gravel roads. Günther, from DS Penske, described his rally experience as “a full-confidence run” due to the Hankook Dynapro R213 tire’s grip and stability. Meanwhile, Fourmaux, of Hyundai Shell Mobis, noted the iON Race tire’s sharp responsiveness at high speeds in the Formula E car. Side-by-side footage emphasizes how Hankook’s tire technology excels in both electric and combustion-driven racing environments.
Hankook’s Motorsport Director, Manfred Sandbichler, appears in the film, signaling the start of this unprecedented head-to-head. He emphasized the brand’s slogan, “Race Beyond Limits,” stating, “This film shows how Hankook’s technology adapts to the toughest demands in racing, no matter the format.” The project has also garnered praise from championship officials. Arne Dirks, WRC CMO, called it “a fantastic chance to bridge two worlds,” while Alberto Longo, Formula E’s Chief Championship Officer, highlighted Hankook’s role in pushing performance boundaries through innovative tire solutions.
This crossover event underscores Hankook’s growing influence in global motorsport. By supplying tires for both Formula E and WRC, the brand demonstrates its ability to meet the unique demands of electric and rally racing. Fans can expect the full film and exclusive behind-the-scenes content to roll out across Hankook’s digital platforms in the coming weeks, offering a closer look at this historic motorsport moment.
A Milestone for Hankook
The car swap not only entertains but also reinforces Hankook’s position as a leader in motorsport tire innovation. By uniting two FIA World Championships, the brand showcases its ability to deliver high-performance tires that thrive under extreme conditions, from the asphalt of Formula E to the gravel of WRC. This initiative is set to captivate motorsport enthusiasts and elevate Hankook’s presence in the racing world.
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