Neu-Isenburg, Germany, 15 January 2025 – Thrilling racing action, enthusiastic fans, and cutting-edge technology defined the second round of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship Season 11 at the legendary Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez circuit. Hankook Mexico City E-Prix on January 11 saw Oliver Rowland (Nissan Formula E Team) claim a hard-fought victory, mastering one of Formula E’s most challenging tracks with the outstanding performance of the Hankook’s iON Race .
Against the dramatic backdrop of 40,000 passionate spectators, 22 drivers unleashed their full potential in their GEN3 Evo cars, equipped with the modified iON Race from Hankook. The 2.63-kilometer circuit, perched over two kilometers above sea level, presented unprecedented challenges with its thin air density and dramatic temperature swings characteristic of high-altitude environments.
These extreme conditions, combined with the circuit's notorious technical layout, put extraordinary demands on tyre performance. Yet Hankook's iON Race tyres demonstrated remarkable adaptability, delivering improvement in grip and fast lap times. Constructed with 35 percent sustainable materials and advanced technology for enhanced heat resistance and stability, the iON Race tyres exemplify Hankook's commitment to sustainability and high performance, reinforcing its position as a leader in electric racing.
Maximilian Günther (DS Penske) elaborated on the tyre's impact on racing strategy, "Energy efficiency is crucial in Formula E, and Hankook's low rolling resistance technology has been a game-changer. The evolution of the iON Race tyre is remarkable – we're seeing peak performance in qualifying while maintaining an optimal temperature window during the race. This year's tyre characteristics offer an exciting challenge for both drivers and teams, combining high performance with energy efficiency. The improved grip and consistency allow us to push harder while managing our energy consumption more effectively, which is exactly what we need in Formula E."
The excitement extended beyond the track at Hankook's branded fan booth, where drivers engaged with fans through an interactive iON digital racing experience. During the media sessions, both Maximilian Günther, DS Penske, and Manfred Sandbichler, Hankook Senior Director Motorsport, joined to discuss tyre technology innovations. Sandbichler highlighted how the new tyre characteristics require sophisticated management and strategic thinking throughout the race, while maintaining zero tyre-related incidents despite the demanding conditions.
Hankook’s expertise in electric racing will be showcased again at the Formula E double-header in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from February 14-15, where hot and dusty tracks and will further challenge tyre performance.
