Hankook Tire Launches Innovative TBR Lineup and Expands Operations at TMC 2025

Hankook Tire Unveils Innovative TBR Tire Lineup and Expansion Plans at TMC 2025

Hankook Tire, a prominent player in the global tire market, showcases its latest advancements at the 2025 Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee. The company introduces its fifth-generation lineup of truck and bus radial (TBR) tires, branded under the Hankook Smart Brand, which highlights cutting-edge technologies like the Self-Generated 3D Sipe technology and newly formulated tread compounds. This innovative approach not only enhances tire performance but also aims to address the evolving needs of fleet operators and the broader transportation sector.

The TBR tire lineup is a testament to Hankook's commitment to technological excellence and customer-centric solutions. By integrating the Smartec technology philosophy into its products, Hankook seeks to deliver greater value and innovation, setting a new standard for tire performance in the commercial vehicle sector. Rob Williams, President of Hankook Tire America Corp, emphasizes the significance of these product launches, noting their relevance to industry stakeholders gathered at the TMC event. The proximity of the event to Hankook's North American headquarters and its manufacturing plant in Clarksville underscores the company's dedication to enhancing its operational capabilities and connecting with customers directly.

Complementing the launch of the new tire lineup, Hankook announces an expansion of its Tennessee plant, which is poised to increase TBR manufacturing capacity significantly. The Phase 3 construction, scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, aims to create an additional 2,200 jobs and elevate the plant's production capacity to 12 million tires annually. This expansion reflects Hankook's strategic focus on domestic manufacturing, aligning with its broader goals to strengthen its leadership position in the tire industry while meeting the growing demands of fleet operators.

In addition to product innovations, Hankook Tire's commitment to enhancing domestic manufacturing capabilities is a key aspect of its growth strategy. The company's expansion efforts not only aim to bolster employment opportunities in the region but also reinforce the importance of local production in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Through these developments, Hankook continues to solidify its presence in the tire industry, demonstrating a proactive approach to innovation and operational excellence while catering to the specific needs of the transportation sector.