Snow chain at the touch of a button

Group sisters Kia and Hyundai have developed a new snow chain technology integrated into the wheel. It makes it possible to ensure greater safety and driving stability on snow-covered roads at the touch of a button. The system works with modules made of a so-called shape memory alloy, also known as memory metal. These L-shaped modules anchored in the rim are concealed in radial grooves in the tire during normal driving. When the driver activates the snow chain function at the touch of a button, the memory metal is induced by means of electricity to resume its original J-shaped profile. As a result, the modules protrude from the tire surface and offer more grip on snow-covered roads.

A patent application has been filed in South Korea and the USA for the technology, which could eliminate the need to put on snow chains. Kia and Hyundai want to develop the system further and do not rule out series production at a later date. (aum)