Hankook Drives Formula E's Sustainable Future, Champions Diversity on Track

VALENCIA, SPAIN – November 03, 2025 – Hankook Tire’s pre-season testing at Circuit Ricardo Tormo signals a strengthened commitment to sustainable racing and inclusivity as the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship gears up for its longest season to date. The testing validated the performance of the Hankook GEN3 Evo iON Race tire and underscored the company's dedication to environmental responsibility and diversity initiatives.

Sustainable Technology Takes Center Stage

Hankook’s role as the exclusive tire supplier for Formula E extends beyond simply providing grip; it’s a showcase for innovative and sustainable materials. The GEN3 Evo iON Race tire features 35% sustainable content, a significant step towards reducing the environmental footprint of the electric racing series. “We are continually pushing the boundaries of what's possible in tire technology,” said a source familiar with Hankook’s engineering efforts. “This isn’t just about performance; it’s about proving that high-performance racing can coexist with environmental responsibility.”

The 35% sustainable materials include components like recycled content, bio-based oils, and sustainably sourced fillers. Hankook’s commitment to sustainability extends to the complete recycling of every tire used during a Formula E race weekend, creating a closed-loop system. While specifics regarding the precise composition of the 35% are closely guarded, it’s clear that the company is investing heavily in research and development of eco-friendly tire materials. This investment aligns with Hankook’s broader ESG goals, which include achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

The move to utilize sustainable materials isn’t without challenges. Balancing performance with sustainability requires careful consideration of material properties and manufacturing processes. “You can’t simply swap out conventional materials for sustainable alternatives without compromising performance,” one industry analyst explained. “It requires a lot of innovation and engineering expertise to ensure that the tires can still withstand the extreme demands of Formula E racing.”

Performance and Consistency Drive Championship Competitiveness

The Hankook GEN3 Evo iON Race tire isn't just about sustainability; it’s also about delivering consistent and reliable performance on the track. The pre-season testing in Valencia confirmed the tire’s ability to provide championship-level grip and consistency, crucial for teams as they refine their race strategies. “The feedback from the drivers has been very positive,” a team principal shared. “They’re impressed with the level of grip and the predictability of the tire.”

The tire’s design is optimized for the unique demands of Formula E racing, which takes place on tight street circuits with varying weather conditions. The tire’s compound and construction are carefully tuned to maximize grip, minimize rolling resistance, and provide consistent performance throughout a race. Hankook engineers work closely with the Formula E teams to optimize tire settings and ensure that each car is performing at its best.

The increased number of races in Season 12 – 18 races across 12 locations – will put even more demands on the tires and the teams. Consistency and reliability will be key to success, and Hankook’s tires are designed to meet those challenges. “We’ve put a lot of effort into developing a tire that can perform consistently under a wide range of conditions,” a Hankook spokesperson stated. “We’re confident that our tires will help the teams deliver exciting and competitive racing all season long.”

Championing Diversity and Inclusion On and Off the Track

Beyond tire technology, Hankook is actively working to promote diversity and inclusion in motorsport through initiatives such as the Women’s Test and the FIA Girls on Track program. The recent Women’s Test in Valencia provided valuable track time for female drivers, offering them the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and gain experience in Formula E cars. Ten Formula E teams participated, each fielding at least one female driver. The test represents a significant step towards breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for women in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

The FIA Girls on Track program, supported by Hankook and Formula E, aims to inspire and empower young women to pursue careers in motorsport. The program provides hands-on activities, educational workshops, and exclusive behind-the-scenes access at race events. In Season 10, the program expanded to all 11 race weekends, reaching over 1,650 young women. “We believe that diversity is essential for the future of motorsport,” a Formula E official explained. “We’re committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.”

The impact of these initiatives is already being felt. Several female drivers who participated in the Women’s Test have secured roles within Formula E teams, and the FIA Girls on Track program is inspiring a new generation of female engineers, mechanics, and racing professionals. “It’s great to see that our efforts are making a difference,” a Hankook representative stated. “We’re committed to continuing to support these initiatives and help create a more diverse and inclusive motorsport community.