Two out of three commercial vehicle tires sold in the US and Europe... Hankook Tire increases local production

Truck and Bus Tire Sales
39% in Americas, 28% in Europe

Hankook Tire & Technology's commercial vehicle tires play a crucial role in its leap to becoming a global premium brand. With a growing share in advanced markets such as the US and Europe, the company is increasing production capacity at local factories to meet market demand.

Hankook Tire supplies new tires not only for domestic commercial vehicles but also for numerous global commercial vehicle brands such as Mercedes-Benz buses, Daimler trucks, and Stellantis. Looking at the regional sales proportions of tires for trucks and buses, the Americas accounted for 39% and Europe 28% as of last year. More than two-thirds of total sales come from advanced markets.

Hankook Tire Commercial Vehicle Tire Exclusive Brand Smartline AL52
[Photo by Hankook Tire & Technology]

The company operates the tire brand ‘Smart,’ which focuses on improving five core elements directly related to tire performance, considering the characteristics of commercial vehicle operation: Safety (S), Mileage (M), Anti chip-cut (A), Retreadability (R), and Traction (T).

Centered on its central research institute, ‘Hankook Technodome,’ the company is developing and refining advanced technologies exclusively for commercial vehicle tires under the name ‘Smartec’ through its global R&D network. To enhance customer satisfaction, it has also secured competitiveness in services. Domestically, it operates ‘TBX,’ a specialized truck and bus store where customers can receive professional tire-related services and high-quality vehicle maintenance services with advanced equipment and expert personnel. Overseas, it runs ‘Hankook Truck Masters,’ a specialized service network for truck and bus tires.

Kumho Tire Hungary Plant Overview
[Photo by Kumho Tire & Technology]

To strengthen its position in the overseas commercial vehicle market, the company is expanding its production bases in Tennessee, USA, and Hungary in Europe. A company official stated, "This strategy aims to minimize the impact of external factors such as tariffs and regulations caused by intensified protectionism in the US and Europe and to promote stable growth. We will increase sales and enhance brand competitiveness overseas by expanding production capacity along with professional personnel, organizational, and distribution infrastructure."