06/08/2004 Run-flat systems  for sport cars, sedans and vans

(Hanover / Essen, June 2004) With the ContiSupportRing and the Continental SSR the leading German tiremaker carries two run-flat systems for different types of applications. While the ContiSupportRing (CSR) has been developed primarily for heavy cars and SUVs, the Continental SSR (Self-Supporting Runflat Tyre) is intended more for sport cars with low-profile tires. Both systems allow a vehicle to continue on its way after a tire failure. Both can be used on normal commercially available rims. With the ContiComfortKit Continental has a further system on the market that enables the motorist to continue driving despite a tire failure after a necessary brief stop. All three solution are used both in OE and in the replacement trade.

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The ContiSupportRing

The CSR is a metal ring with a flexible bearing mounted directly onto the rim. CSR has no effect on driving properties during normal driving. In the event of a sudden or gradual loss of air, the tire props itself up against the ring and maneuverability of the vehicle remains intact. Even with no air in the tire, the vehicle can then continue on its way at a top speed of 80 km/h for a distance of up to 200 kilometers. Handling remains sufficiently stable and comfortable. In this way, the next workshop or tire outlet can be reached without any problem. The ContiSupportRing protects the rim from damage when the vehicle drives over an unevenness like curbs, for example.

Here you can download or order the picture from the ContiSupportRing ...

The ContiSupportRing is offered mainly for comfort-oriented cars and SUVs. It is especially well suited for aspect ratios of 55 to 80.

When new tires are purchased, it is not necessary to replace the CSR if it has not been used to deal with a tire failure. It can be employed in combination with any tire on all passenger car rims available commercially.

Four ContiSupportRings weigh less than a complete spare wheel, so the overall weight of the vehicle is reduced slightly. The elimination of the spare wheel also frees up extra space in the trunk and thus opens up new design possibilities for automakers. The CSR is a Continental development that has undergone advance development within the framework of a cooperation with Bridgestone and Yokohama in the area of run-flat systems. It is marketed separately by the companies under a joint logo.

Continental has introduced the ContiSupportRing as original equipment. Following exhaustive testing Maybach has already decided in favor of the ContiSupportRing, offering it as an optional safety feature.

Continental SSR

In the event of a loss of pressure, run-flat tyres can still function reliably over a certain distance at a specified top speed. To make this possible, the sidewalls of the Self-Supporting Run-Flat Tyre (SSR) are reinforced with extra rubber to absorb the weight of the vehicle should inflation pressure drop.

Here you can download or order the picture from the Self-Supporting Runflat Tyre (SSR) ...

The SSR is especially well suited for passenger and sport cars equipped with powerful engines and tires with an aspect ratio of fifty or less. The tire's reinforced sidewall intercepts the weight of the vehicle in the event of a tire failure, allowing the vehicle to continue on for another eighty kilometers at a top speed of 80 km/h. In many cases this enables the motorist to reach the intended destination or at least make it to the nearest workshop. Continental SSR tires are available in summer and winter models.

 Whereas certain systems marketed by competitors require special wheels, the run-flat systems from Continental can be used on conventional wheels. This eliminates the need for investments in special wheels and mounting tools throughout the branch. It also does away with the need for a spare wheel - which is seldom or never used, anyway - thereby giving motorists extra much-need storage space and automotive designers additional planning latitude.

ContiComfortKit CCKWith the ContiComfortKit the leading German tiremaker is marketing still another option of ensuring mobility despite a tire failure. The system is lightweight - around two kilograms - and ready for service in a flash. It saves space and weight in the trunk by eliminating the need for a spare wheel. The system functions as follows: By means of a small compressor, the tire is filled with a sealant, restoring the normal pressure level. The compressor is operated via the cigarette lighter outlet. The driver does not come into contact with the sealant and is ready to set off again just minutes after the breakdown occurs. The CCK is offered at specialist tire outlets and via the Internet under www.conti-online.com.

Here you can download or order the picture from the ContiComfortKit ...

The Continental Corporation is a leading supplier of brake systems, chassis components, vehicle electronics, tires and technical elastomers. In fiscal 2003 the company reported sales of EUR11.5 with a worldwide workforce of around 69,000.

The Tire Division is an Official Partner of the 2006 FIFA World Cup GermanyTM. For more information on this, check out www.conti-online.com and www.contifanworld.com.