Revolutionary integrated snow chains from Kia and Hyundai!

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Kia and Hyundai have developed technology that aims to revolutionize driving on snowy roads: integrated snow chains. The innovation, which at first glance seems like a futuristic concept, is real and has the potential to fundamentally change the way we deal with snow-covered roads. The heart are Modules made from a shape memory alloy, also known as Memory metal. The L-shaped modules are anchored in the rims and remain invisible in radial grooves of the tire during normal driving. However, as soon as the driver Snow chain function When activated, the memory metal is electrically stimulated to return to the original J-shaped profile. The transformation causes the modules to protrude from the tire surface and provide additional grip.

integrated snow chains

The integrated snow chain technology could do that time-consuming and laborious putting on snow chains make superfluous. The innovation is already in Patent pending in South Korea and the USA and is in the development phase, but with potential series production in mind. Joon Mo Park, head of the Advanced Chassis Development Teams, highlights Kia and Hyundai's commitment to developing advanced technologies that increase comfort and safety and provide real added value. The wheel and tire combination, an integral part of the technology, features radially arranged grooves, similar to the segments of a pizza. The modules are inserted into these grooves Shape memory alloy admitted. When inactive, the L-shaped material remains hidden inside and does not come into contact with the road.

Tire wear detection

When activated by the driver, the electrical current conducts the transformation of the alloy Snow chain one that expands into a J-shape and pushes the module out of the tire to make direct contact with the road. The technology not only improves grip on snow, but also increases it Stability and security of the vehicle in winter conditions. And another clever feature is a Tire wear detection function. If the tire has worn down to the level of the module, the driver can see this and know that a tire change is due. However, the mass production of the technology depends on others Developments, durability and performance tests and approval from the relevant authorities.

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