Autonomous A2Z (CEO Han Ji-hyung, hereinafter A2Z) announced on the 15th that it signed a business agreement (MOU) with Kumho Tire (CEO Jeong Il-taek) for the development of autonomous vehicles and future tires at the Kumho Tire headquarters in Gwanghwamun, Seoul on the 12th.
Under this agreement, the two companies will collaborate in a variety of areas, including the supply of tires for autonomous vehicles and the establishment of a stable supply chain; joint development, testing, and evaluation of future tires, including autonomous vehicles, airless tires, and smart tires; standardization and institutional foundation development; and promotional and marketing collaboration. Through this, they aim to strengthen the foundation for the commercialization of autonomous vehicles and secure global competitiveness.
A2Z, with its largest fleet of 62 autonomous vehicles in Korea and its experience in autonomous driving on 740,000 km of urban roads, will be responsible for verifying tire technology for autonomous vehicles and accumulating data. Kumho Tire will provide a stable supply of tires for A2Z's autonomous vehicles and work to enhance the reliability of the autonomous driving ecosystem by developing next-generation tires and establishing a supply chain system. Kumho Tire products will be used in A2Z's Level 4 autonomous vehicle, "ROii," to be unveiled at APEC 2025, before being expanded to encompass all driverless autonomous vehicles.
The two companies are focusing on developing next-generation airless tires and smart tires based on sensors and communication. Airless tires offer enhanced safety and durability, eliminating the risk of punctures and pressure loss. Smart tires are a technology that enhances safety, efficiency, and sustainability through real-time tire condition and driving environment monitoring.
Additionally, the two companies plan to jointly respond to the establishment of safety standards and regulations for airless tires, standardization activities, and expand cooperation in public relations and marketing to enhance global market awareness.
Han Ji-hyung, CEO of A2G, said, “This agreement will be an important turning point in terms of securing a stable supply chain for autonomous vehicle tires and accumulating empirical data, thereby advancing commercialization and enhancing the reliability of the ecosystem.” He added, “We will strengthen our competitiveness in the global mobility market through the convergence of future tires and autonomous vehicles.”
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