Kumho Tyre joins Driven to Extremes Euro EV Marathon

Kumho Tyre is supporting the ‘Driven to Extremes Euro EV Marathon’ of travelling from Oslo to Lisbon in an EV in just five days.

Recreating an historic motoring exploit, the 3,600-mile challenge will visit 15 countries in just 120 hours. Kumho’s ECSTA PS71 EV tyre is original fit on the Kia EV6 and it is this specialist product in 235/55R19 size that the challenge car will be equipped with throughout the trial.

The tyre is notable for its minimal level of resonance noise, thanks to Kumho’s patented sound absorbing technology, dubbed K-Silent. This optimises the shape and properties of polyurethane foam materials placed within a tyre, which results in a marked reduction in the air vibration generated during contact with the road surface. Kumho developed the K-Silent system back in 2014 and now holds patents for the unique design throughout the world. Other properties of PS71 EV that make it ideal for tyres intended for use on electric vehicles include low rolling resistance, strong anti-wear performance and excellent levels of grip.

Inspired by an endurance test completed by Sir Stirling Moss 70 years ago, the ‘Driven to Extremes Euro EV Marathon’ is understood to be the first time the route has been attempted in a fully electric vehicle as a continuous trip. With the support of Kumho Tyre, as well as Kia UK, the team will start the drive on September 4th, and aim to arrive in Lisbon on September 9th – World EV Day.

Speaking of the challenge, Kumho Tyre (UK)’s Managing Director Keon Park said: “We are delighted to be involved with this landmark event, which allows us to showcase our first electric vehicle tyre to be approved by Kia ahead of the arrival of our full EV range next year. Kumho has a history of innovation, and the ECSTA PS71 EV will ensure we are at the cutting edge of the electric vehicle revolution.”

Project Leader Mac Mackenney said: “We’re delighted that Kumho Tyre’s expertise and knowledge will be part of this ambitious adventure. We want to show that every aspect of owning a modern EV means there’s no compromise – from the reliability of the vehicle to the dependability of the tyres. We’ll have a long way to travel, with the team driving in shifts, so resting and sleeping properly throughout will be vital. This means comfort and low road noise, as well as efficiency and safety – and we’ll be in good hands with Kumho.”