Hyundai and Kia's Breakthrough: Shape-Shifting Tires for Safer Winter Journeys

by TTAC Staff

Published: January 30th, 2024

Photo credit: Hyundai

Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have introduced an innovative snow chain technology for tires, poised to enhance winter driving safety. This new technology incorporates shape memory alloy modules located within the wheel and tire assembly. These modules can be activated to function as snow chains with a simple electrical signal, offering a seamless transition from regular to winter-ready driving.

Effortless Operation and Safety Enhancement

The main advantage of this technology lies in its ease of use. Traditional snow chains require manual installation, which can be both time-consuming and challenging. In contrast, the new system from Hyundai and Kia utilizes shape memory alloy that can be deployed or retracted at the push of a button. This not only saves time but significantly improves safety, especially during unexpected heavy snowfall.

The Technology Behind the Innovation

The design of this snow chain-integrated tire technology is quite intricate. The tire features radial grooves, similar to slices of a pizza, where modules made of shape memory alloy are inserted. When not in use, the alloy remains compressed inside the wheel, resembling the shape of an 'L'. Upon activation, an electric current causes the alloy to return to its original shape, extending out of the tire in a 'J' shape. This extension makes contact with the road surface, thereby enhancing grip and stability in snowy conditions.

Moreover, this technology offers an additional safety feature. In case of severe tire wear, the visibility of the module alerts drivers to the need for tire replacement, ensuring that tire maintenance is not overlooked.

Future Prospects and Development

Currently holding patent-pending status in South Korea and the U.S., Hyundai Motor and Kia are considering the mass production of this innovative technology. Before this can happen, further technological advancements, durability tests, performance evaluations, and regulatory reviews are necessary. This forward-thinking approach reflects Hyundai and Kia's commitment to leveraging advanced technology for real-world applications, focusing on enhancing the safety and convenience of their vehicles.

This article was co-written using AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.

TTAC Staff

More by TTAC Staff

Comments

Join the conversation

Recent Comments

Zipper69 "At least Lincoln finally learned to do a better job of not appearing to have raided the Ford parts bin"But they differentiate by being bland and unadventurous and lacking a clear brand image.
Zipper69 "The worry is that vehicles could collect and share Americans' data with the Chinese government"Presumably, via your cellphone connection? Does the average Joe in the gig economy really have "data" that will change the balance of power?
Zipper69 Honda seem to have a comprehensive range of sedans that sell well.
Oberkanone How long do I have to stay in this job before I get a golden parachute?I'd lower the price of the V-Series models. Improve the quality of interiors across the entire line. I'd add a sedan larger then CT5. I'd require a financial review of Celestiq. If it's not a profit center it's gone. Styling updates in the vision of the XLR to existing models. 2+2 sports coupe woutd be added. Performance in the class of AMG GT and Porsche 911 at a price just under $100k. EV models would NOT be subsidized by ICE revenue.
NJRide Let Cadillac be Cadillac, but in the context of 2024. As a new XT5 owner (the Emerald Green got me to buy an old design) I would have happy preferred a Lyriq hybrid. Some who really like the Lyriq's package but don't want an EV will buy another model. Most will go elsewhere. I love the V6 and good but easy to use infotainment. But I know my next car will probably be more electrified w more tech.I don't think anyone is confusing my car for a Blazer but i agree the XT6 is too derivative. Frankly the Enclave looks more prestigious. The Escalade still has got it, though I would love to see the ESV make a comeback. I still think GM missed the boat by not making a Colorado based mini-Blazer and Escalade. I don't get the 2 sedans. I feel a slightly larger and more distinctly Cadillac sedan would sell better. They also need to advertise beyond the Lyriq. I don't feel other luxury players are exactly hitting it out of the park right now so a strengthened Cadillac could regain share.