Conti starts production of ‘high-tech’ summer tire

The EcoContact 6 tires use the company’s ‘GreenChili’ compound: said to deliver 20% higher mileage and 15% lower rolling resistance compared to its predecessor model.

By March 2019, the company expects 112 items for 13- to 22-inch rims to be available. The tires are approved for speeds up to 300 km/h, corresponding to the speed index “Y”.

Continental said it has already received approvals from 12 European vehicle manufacturers for factory-fitting of the EcoContact 6 on sub-compact to mid-range cars.

To develop the tire, Continental said its scientists redesigned the silica compound for a more balanced distribution of the chemical components. This strengthened bonding of the polymers in the compound and lowered deformation of the tire while driving.

The technology “has led to a significant overall reduction in rolling resistance, which in turn cuts fuel consumption,” the company stated.

Continental also introduced “innovative additives” to the compound to help the contact patch adapt better to the road surface. Tis, it said, improves transmission of braking forces while ensuring less wheelspin and more mileage.