Hankook’s iON Race Technology Conquers Hankook Mexico City e-Prix

- Hankook's modified iON Race technology excelled in challenging high-altitude conditions of over 2km above sea level
- GEN3 Evo iON Race tire shattered expectations in front of 40,000 fans
- Dusty roads in Jeddah await Hankook’s next electrifying showdown

Seoul, Korea, January 15, 2025 — Roaring engines, enthusiastic fans, and cutting-edge technology defined the second round of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship (hereafter Formula E) Season 11 at the legendary Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez circuit. Hankook Mexico E-Prix on January 11 saw Oliver Rowland (Nissan Formula E Team) claim a hard-fought victory, mastering one of Formula E’s most challenging tracks with the outstanding performance of Hankook’s iON Race tire technology.

Against the dramatic backdrop of 40,000 passionate spectators, 22 drivers unleashed their full potential in their GEN3 Evo cars, equipped with the modified iON Race tire by Hankook Tire & Technology (hereafter Hankook). The 2.63-kilometer circuit, perched over two kilometers above sea level, presented unprecedented challenges with its thin air density and dramatic temperature swings characteristic of high-altitude environments.

These extreme conditions, combined with the circuit's notorious technical layout, put extraordinary demands on tire performance. Yet Hankook's iON Race tires demonstrated remarkable adaptability, delivering improvement in grip and reducing lap times even in the oxygen-depleted atmosphere. Constructed with 35% sustainable materials and advanced fiber technology for enhanced heat resistance and stability, the iON Race tires exemplify Hankook's commitment to sustainability and high performance, reinforcing its position as a leader in electric racing.

Maximilian Günther (DS Penske) elaborated on the tire's impact on racing strategy, "Energy efficiency is crucial in Formula E, and Hankook's low rolling resistance technology has been a game-changer. The evolution of the iON Race tire is remarkable – we're seeing peak performance in qualifying while maintaining an optimal temperature window during the race. This year's tire characteristics offer an exciting challenge for both drivers and teams, combining high performance with energy efficiency. The improved grip and consistency allow us to push harder while managing our energy consumption more effectively, which is exactly what we need in Formula E."

The excitement extended beyond the track at Hankook's branded fan booth, where drivers engaged with fans through an interactive iON digital racing experience. During the media sessions, both Maximilian Günther, DS PENSKE driver, and Manfred Sandbichler, Hankook Motorsport Senior Director, joined to discuss tire technology innovations. Sandbichler highlighted how the new tire characteristics require sophisticated management and strategic thinking throughout the race, while maintaining zero tire-related incidents despite the demanding conditions.

Hankook’s expertise in electric racing will be showcased again at the next Formula E double-header in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from February 14-15, where hot and dusty tracks and will further challenge tire performance.