Hankook iON evo SUV vs Falken e.Ziex: In the electrifying world of electric vehicles, two high-performance tires stand out, designed specifically for the unique demands of EVs: the Hankook iON evo SUV and the Falken e.Ziex. Each tire promises to enhance the driving experience with cutting-edge technology tailored for electric powertrains, offering exceptional grip, reduced rolling resistance, and whisper-quiet rides. As these two titans gear up for a showdown, the question arises: which tire truly reigns supreme in the realm of electric vehicles? Let the duel begin, and may the best tire win!
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Results: Hankook iON evo SUV vs Falken e.Ziex
Results below were taken from 2024 Auto Bild EV Summer tire test with a total of 9 tires tested, The graph below shows the comparison between Hankook iON evo SUV vs Falken e.Ziex based on the relevant performance category. The Hankook iON evo SUV was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Note that for both wet & dry handling evaluation, the average lap speed was used instead of the standard lap time & subjective rating. The tire size of interest is 235/35 R19 which is a common tire size for Audi R8 & Volkswagen Golf R. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a KIA EV6 which is an compact electric powered crossover SUV.
Battery Range
When it comes to battery range performance between the Hankook iON evo SUV and the Falken e.Ziex, both tires demonstrate strengths in their design, but with notable differences. The Hankook iON evo SUV has a higher rolling resistance at 6.88 N/kN compared to the Falken e.Ziex at 5.55 N/kN. This significant gap in rolling resistance suggests that the Falken tire is more efficient, potentially offering less strain on the battery per kilometer driven.
Despite this, the effect on overall energy consumption between the two is relatively subtle. The Hankook tire leads to an energy consumption of 18.83 kWh per 100 kilometers, whereas the Falken tire uses slightly less at 18.28 kWh per 100 kilometers. Although the Falken e.Ziex shows better efficiency in rolling resistance, the actual impact on energy consumption remains fairly minimal, indicating that other factors like tire composition and tread design also play critical roles in their overall energy efficiency.
e.Ziex:
- +24% in rolling resistance
- +3% in energy Consumption
Wet
With the surprisingly low rolling resistance of the Falken e.Ziex, one might typically expect a compromise in wet performance, as lower rolling resistance often conflicts with optimal wet grip. The results show exactly that with Falken e.Ziex performing poorly in wet conditions.
The Hankook iON evo SUV excels notably in wet conditions. In wet braking, the tire stops from 100 km/h in 39.4 meters, which is 3 meters shorter than the Falken e.Ziex, which stops at 42.4 meters. This difference highlights the superior stopping power of the Hankook in critical wet conditions.
In terms of wet handling, which measures how well tires maintain control and speed through wet road conditions, the Hankook iON evo SUV also edges out slightly with an average speed of 57.1 km/h compared to the Falken’s 56.3 km/h. This slight advantage indicates a more robust grip and control during maneuvering on wet surfaces.
The wet circle test, which measures the time to complete a circle on a wet track, further underscores the Hankook’s strength; it completes the circle in 13.11 seconds, faster than the Falken’s 13.39 seconds. This demonstrates quicker and more responsive handling by the Hankook under wet conditions.
Lastly, in the straight aquaplaning test, where higher speeds indicate better performance in resisting aquaplaning, the Hankook maintains control at a higher speed of 94.4 km/h compared to the Falken at 92.1 km/h. This confirms that the Hankook iON evo SUV not only provides better wet braking but also offers superior protection against aquaplaning.
Overall, the Hankook iON evo SUV clearly demonstrates stronger wet performance across multiple tests, affirming its robust capabilities in challenging driving environments.
e.Ziex:
- -7% in wet braking
- -1% in wet handling (average speed)
- -2% in wet circle
- -2% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
In dry conditions, the Hankook iON evo SUV outperforms the Falken e.Ziex slightly in both braking and handling. It stops from 100 km/h in 33 meters, 1.7 meters shorter than the Falken at 34.7 meters, and maintains a higher average handling speed of 70.2 km/h compared to the Falken’s 69.6 km/h. These results showcase the Hankook’s superior deceleration and stability on dry roads.
e.Ziex:
- -5% in dry braking
- -1% in dry handling (average speed)
Mileage
In terms of mileage performance, the Hankook iON evo SUV significantly outlasts the Falken e.Ziex. The Hankook tire can travel up to 35,695 kilometers before needing replacement, which is 8,320 kilometers more than the Falken tire, which lasts for 27,375 kilometers. This substantial difference underlines the Hankook’s durability and longer lifespan, offering better value and reliability over extended use.
e.Ziex:
- -23% in mileage
Noise
In terms of exterior noise, the Hankook iON evo SUV is quieter than the Falken e.Ziex. The Hankook produces noise at 68.6 decibels, which is 1.6 decibels lower than the Falken at 70.2 decibels. This difference highlights the Hankook’s superior ability to reduce noise, providing a quieter and more comfortable ride.
e.Ziex:
- -2% in exterior noise (+1.6 dB)
Price
The Falken e.Ziex tire is priced at €153, making it 9% cheaper than the Hankook iON evo SUV, which costs €167. This price difference makes the Falken a more budget-friendly option among the two tires of the same size, 235/35 R19.
Tire size: 235/35 R19
Difference: -9% more cheaper for e.Ziex.
Summary
As a tire expert, evaluating both the Hankook iON evo SUV and the Falken e.Ziex presents a clear view of their respective strengths. The Falken e.Ziex offers a compelling value with its lower price and slightly better rolling resistance, which marginally enhances energy efficiency.
However, from an electric vehicle perspective, the Hankook iON evo SUV stands out as the stronger contender. It delivers superior performance in critical areas such as wet and dry conditions, showcases significantly better wear resistance, and operates more quietly. Although it does have a slightly higher energy consumption, the benefits it provides in terms of safety, durability, and comfort are crucial for electric vehicles, making it a more suitable choice for EV owners who prioritize these aspects.
Dr Edwin Pang