If you live where the roads are covered in snow and ice, snow chains are a great option for making the daily drive safer for everyone in the car. But let’s be real, wrestling with those chains in the freezing cold or a wild snowstorm can be challenging!
Hyundai Motor Company has rolled out an innovative solution by introducing a new technology that integrates snow chains directly into the tire for safer winter driving.
It’s as easy as pushing a button
With a simple push of a button, these integrated snow chains effortlessly deploy and retract, eliminating the task of dealing with the installation and removal of traditional chains in freezing conditions.
The technology utilizes shape memory alloy modules inside the wheel and tire, featuring six indented grooves corresponding to the wheel’s spokes. Within these grooves, robust snow chain-like wires stay retracted within the tread until needed. These modules protrude to act as a ‘snow chain’ in response to an electrical signal.
Adopting this technology requires a redesign of the entire wheel assembly and collaboration between Hyundai and tire manufacturers, a process that might take time. However, for individuals frequently encountering snowy or icy conditions, this advancement could prove highly convenient and a true lifesaver.
You can watch the video on the Hyundai Motor Group YouTube channel here:
