Kumho Tyre, has announced the development of a tyre composed of 80% sustainable materials, marking a significant step towards environmental responsibility and innovation in tyre technology.
Kumho, already utilising 25% sustainable materials in its current products, has set a progressive target to increase this proportion to 40% by 2030. This ambitious plan is part of a broader strategy to achieve 100% sustainability in its tyre production by 2045.
This innovative concept tyre represents a pivotal shift from traditional petrochemical-based production. Kumho has effectively replaced these components with a variety of sustainably sourced and recycled materials, contributing to a greener automotive future. The company's research and development efforts have culminated in the creation of synthetic rubber tyres made from recycled plastic, a noteworthy technological advancement.
Furthermore, Kumho has incorporated environmentally friendly silica sourced from rice bran and biomass-based oils. Chemicals derived from sunflower oil have replaced petroleum-based products, enhancing the tyre's eco-friendly credentials. Additionally, the new tyre includes powdered end-of-life tyres, demonstrating Kumho's commitment to reducing waste.
Kumho's efforts align with the guidelines set by the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR), ensuring that products like natural rubber are produced sustainably. This commitment extends to the mass production of a variety of products, further solidifying the company's dedication to environmental stewardship.
The company's focus is not solely on the production phase but also on the consumption phase of tyres. Kumho has developed tyres designed to be more energy-efficient, have higher wear resistance, produce less noise, and emit fewer tyre particles. These improvements aim to minimise the environmental impact of tyres throughout their lifecycle, from production to end-of-life disposal.
Mansik Cho, the head of research and development at Kumho Tire, emphasised the importance of sustainability in the company's future. "Sustainability is the key to our survival," he stated. "We will strive to develop alternative materials to give us a competitive advantage in technologies to achieve CO2 neutrality and to act as a partner for sustainable mobility."
Kumho's pioneering steps in sustainable tyre technology not only set a new standard for the tyre industry but also serve as a beacon for other sectors to follow suit. This innovation reflects a growing awareness and responsibility towards environmental conservation and sustainable practices within the automotive sector. With these advancements, Kumho Tire is poised to make a significant impact on both the market and the planet.
