As the new and exclusive tire supplier for the NXT Gen Cup Swedish racing series, Hankook Tire will provide its Ventus TD tire to the LRT NXT1 race cars, which are based on the electric Mini Cooper SE.
The tire was developed as an original equipment option for the Mini John Cooper Works GP and delivers a high level of performance on the road and the race circuit. During competition races, the tire manufacturer will be on-site to support drivers and teams.
The race car has been built by the Lestrup Racing Team – founder of the NXT Gen Cup – and features a 230hp liquid-cooled electric motor and 30kWh battery.
The all-electric Junior Touring Car Cup will debut in 2023 and provide young karting talents aged between 15 and 25 with a stepping stone toward a professional career. The NXT Gen Cup will be held in Sweden alongside the Swedish Touring Car Championship. Eighteen drivers will compete over six race weekends from July to October 2023, with the first race being held in Falkenberg on July 8 and 9.
“We are looking forward to working with the all-electric NXT Gen Cup,” said Manfred Sandbichler, Hankook Motorsports director – Europe. “Their impressive program fits perfectly with our commitment not only to all-electric motorsport but also to junior racing. We hope to inspire more young talents with the NXT Gen Cup and give them an exciting motorsport career.”
“Hankook’s extensive experience in Formula E and road racing will play a key role for the NXT Gen Cup as we set out to create a viable and sustainable racing career platform for up-and-coming drivers,” added Christian Axelsson, head of partners and events at NXT Gen Cup. “Our first tests with the tires have been exceptional in terms of performance and durability, whether in the wet or dry.”
