Hankook Tire & Technology Headquarters (Photo: Hankook Tire & Technology)

 

 

[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] Hankook Tire & Technology will begin manufacturing truck and bus radial (TBR) tires in the United States for the first time by the end of this year, marking a strategic expansion of its production footprint.



According to industry sources on July 22, Hankook Tire is establishing production lines at its Tennessee plant with the goal of supplying TBR tires in the fourth quarter of 2025. The company plans to produce three new products—AL52, DL52, and TL52—specifically developed for the North American market. This marks the company’s first TBR production on U.S. soil.



As part of its dual-track strategy, Hankook aims not only to localize TBR production to bypass high U.S. import tariffs but also to introduce next-generation products tailored for the market—ultimately strengthening its market share in North America.



Initial production of TBR tires is set to begin later this year, with Hankook targeting an annual production capacity of 1 million units by the end of 2026. Additionally, the company will double its production of passenger car and light truck (PCLT) tires in the U.S. from 5.5 million to 11 million units annually.



Originally established in 2017, the Tennessee plant has until now focused exclusively on PCLT tires. Starting later this year, it will be upgraded into a core manufacturing hub capable of producing both PCLT and TBR products.



The company also plans to enhance its product portfolio with innovative TBR models that offer extended lifespan, improved fuel efficiency, and superior driving stability. While specifications of the new models are yet to be disclosed, they are reported to feature advanced technologies such as “Hidden Grooves,” which optimize performance depending on tread wear conditions.



Hankook’s U.S. expansion comes amid growing demand for localized production and competitive product differentiation in the commercial tire segment.

 

 

 

 

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