Kumho Tire announced Thursday that its best-selling Ecsta HS51 tire will be exclusively supplied in Europe for Renault Samsung Motors’ compact sports utility vehicle Arkana, also known as the XM3 in South Korea.
Ecsta HS51 is the best-selling tire in Europe, according to the South Korean tire maker, which uses rubber and high-grip resin for improved braking performance.
The model is known for a range of devices and technologies, including a simulation tool for Virtual Product Development. Ecsta HS51 was ranked No. 1 for summer tires and received a “Exemplary” grade in a performance contest organized by Auto Bild, a prominent German journal.
In March of last year, the Arkana was first unveiled in South Korea as the XM3. The XM3 has gained popularity in Korea and received a first-place rating in the 2020 Korean New Car Assessment Program, which was conducted by the transport ministry on Dec. 10, according to Kumho Tire.
With the new name Arkana, XM3 has expanded into European countries, including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, based on its success in the domestic market.
Arkana accounted for 76 percent of Renault Samsung’s monthly exports in April, and the carmaker aims to expand the model to other international markets, including South America and the Middle East.
“We are glad to cooperate on the XM3 sold not only in Korea but also on the Kumho tires sold outside the country,” a Kumho Tire official said. “We will continue to make efforts to fulfill the satisfaction of customers with tires suitable for SUVs.”