Research and development

know-how | expertise | innovation

The R&D team at König is responsible for managing a wide variety of activities which are involving the technical side of products and processes.

The Research and Development department is instrumental in driving innovation within the company. They focus on exploring new technologies, conducting market research, and developing new products or improving existing ones. R&D teams collaborate closely with various departments to ensure that products meet quality standards, comply with regulations, and align with business goals. The department efforts are aimed at maintaining a competitive edge in the market, fostering a culture of innovation, and driving long-term growth for the company.

Research activities

The R&D department is primarily responsible for conducting extensive research to explore new technologies, methodologies, and market trends relevant to the company’s industry. This involves staying updated with the latest advancements and identifying opportunities for innovation.

Product development

One of the core functions of the R&D department is to develop new products or improve existing ones. This process involves conceptualizing ideas, designing prototypes, conducting feasibility studies, and refining products based on customer feedback and market demands.

Testing and quality assurance

The R&D is responsible for testing products rigorously to ensure they meet quality standards and regulatory requirements. This includes performance testing, reliability testing, and compliance testing to ensure products are safe, reliable, and effective.

IPR

The department is also responsible in identifying, protecting, and managing the company’s intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. They work to safeguard the company’s innovations and ensure a competitive advantage in the market.

Regulatory compliance

The R&D team ensure that products comply with relevant regulations and standards in their industry. This includes staying abreast of regulatory changes, conducting necessary testing and documentation, and obtaining necessary certifications for product launch and distribution.

leaders in snow chains innovation

Development activities in figures

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timeline of the most iconic products

Development milestones

2023

Reflex Cross

The Reflex technology extended to Crossover and Compact SUV applications

2023

2022

Reflex Edge

The revolutionary snow chain fitting platform, awarded by the prestigious IF Design sign

2022

2022

K-Summit MAX

K-Summit dedicated to electrified and high performance vehicles

2022

2021

XD-16 Pro

Extension of the XD-16 for SUV and pickups with tyres up to 35″

 
2021

2021

XG Cross

Automatic snow chain dedicated to Crossover and Compact SUV 

2021

2019

Resisto

The fist non-metal snow chain dedicated to the Japanese market, the only non-Japanese product which got certified according to Jasaa 432.

2019

2018

K-Summit Pro

The external snow chain dedicated to busses and heavy trucks.

2018

2016

K-Summit Van

The external snow chain dedicated to VANs and Motorhomes.

2016

2014

CB-7

Hybrid 7/9mm snow chain for mild wheelhouse clearance limitations
 
2014

2013

Easy-fit SUV

Extension of the Easy-fit CU-9 to SUVs
 
2013

2012

Easy-fit CU-9

The revolutionary snow chain which has dramatically simplified the fitting process

2012

2011

K-Summit XXL

Extension of the K-Summit to the bigger SUVs

2011

2010

XG-12 Pro

The first 12mm snow chain for SUVs and Vans, covered by double approval V5117 and V5119

2010

2009

K-Summit XL

The K-Summit dedicated to Crossovers and Compact SUVs

2009

2008

K-Summit

The first König external snow chain, designed to solve internal clearance issues of passenger cars

2008

2007

K-Slim / CK-7 / K7

The thinnest snow chain in the world, the first one 100% 7mm thickness. The product name and aesthetics have evoluted to the CK-7 and K-Slim versions.

2007

2001

Supermagic system

The one and only snow chain with the external quick-release system, the chain falls on the ground by simply pulling the external trigger

2001

1999

Comfort Magic

The König Comfort Magic was the first 9mm snow chain featuring the Magic automatic tensioning system.

1999

1996

Magic system

The König “Magic” is the first automatic tensioning system, it allows the snow chain to automatically tighten while driving requiring no more stops for retensioning

1996

1990

No Problem system

A ground breaking innovation for that time, introducing a new way to mount and pre-tension snow chains for light vehicles

1990

1980

Diamond pattern chains

In a market dominated by ladder chain designs, König releases diamond pattern snow chains, bringing performances, vehicle maneuvrability and handling to the next level.

1980