Hyundai is set to redefine winter driving with an ingenious solution, tires with built-in snow chains. Picture this: a Shape Memory Alloy discreetly housed within the wheel and tire that, at the push of a button, transforms into a snow chain. No more fumbling in sudden snowfall, no need to step out of your vehicle.
Itโs innovation that puts safety and convenience at the forefront. The heart of this groundbreaking technology lies in a wheel and tire assembly with six different parts, resembling a pizza.
The Shape Memory Alloy, a smart material, adopts the form of the letter โLโ during normal driving, avoiding contact with the road. However, when winter challenges arise, a simple button press activates an electric current, causing the alloy to revert to a โJโ shape.
This deploys the module from the tire, establishing contact with the road surface and significantly enhancing grip, stability, and safety on snowy roads. Hyundai Motor and Kia are considering mass production of this system, marking a substantial leap forward in winter driving safety.
This patent-pending technology represents a paradigm shift, eliminating the hassle of installing and removing traditional snow chains. Itโs a testament to Hyundaiโs commitment to not just building cars but reimagining the entire driving experience.
However, innovation sometimes meets its limit, and when the tire undergoes depreciation and damages, the alloy module makes contact with the road surface during normal driving. When this happens, itโs a signal from your tires that itโs time for a change.
Say goodbye to the complexities of winter driving. Hyundaiโs snow chain-integrated tires are here to make your journeys safer, smoother, and more enjoyable.
Source: Hyundai
