Autonomous driving technology form Korean startup 3Secondz had been acquired by Hankook & Company.
Established in 2016 by CEO Kim Jae-woo, 3Secondz has developed driver-specific autonomous driving technologies based on advanced driving data, including the real-time driving data collection device XYRO and control and driving data analysis software TeamSolution.
The two companies have been partners since 2020, with Hankook implementing 3Secondz’s real-time test vehicle control system and unmanned test solutions at Hankook Tire & Technology’s Technoring tire test track. In June 2022, 3Secondz used an autonomous test-driving car capable of checking a tire’s grip and durability levels on a gravel road section of the Hankook Technoring.
By acquiring the technology, Hankook & Company aims to achieve significant advantages within the areas of tire and vehicle development.
Upon completion of the acquisition, the 3Secondz employees in charge of autonomous driving technology development will be transferred to Hankook & Company to enable the continued development of mobility technology projects. By doing so, the companies aim to accelerate future autonomous driving and intelligent tire development technologies. The companies will also work on the advancement of Hankook Technoring control solutions.
“We are excited that this acquisition will enable Hankook & Company to lead AI-related technologies in the mobility field, and we are looking forward to creating strong synergies with 3Secondz in various future businesses,” commented Seong-Jin Kim, CDO and CIO of Hankook & Company.