With an estimated 2.8 million electric vehicles registered worldwide by 2020, the new Conti.eContact introduces pioneering tyre dimensions for this growing market.

Over the next 40 years CO2 budget per inhabitant in the UK will be substantially reduced. This creates a clear need and incentive to produce more fuel-efficient tyres that complement new vehicle design. Continental aims to lead this development of automotive megatrends with the introduction of Conti.eContact.

Developed in co-operation with Europe’s leading car manufacturers, Conti.eContact introduces new tyre dimensions with a larger outer diameter, such as 195/55R20 instead of a traditional 205/55R16. This concept results in substantially reduced rolling resistance. A more flexible sidewall of the tyre helps result in less energy loss when deflecting or rebounding.

Continental’s tyre engineers had to start with a new approach to the Conti.eContact whilst still ensuring that the tyre excelled at wet braking. Wide circumferential grooves, optimised tread depth, a flat contour and smooth off-shoulder design result in an extremely efficient and durable tyre for the electric vehicle market.

Unique sidewall lettering will also feature on the tyre. The logo ‘BLUECO’ is aimed at connoting a series of innovative tyre technologies especially designed for the needs of electric vehicles.

The Conti.eContact will initially be a niche product in the UK, but a growing charge infrastructure for electric vehicles and government incentives are likely to aid uptake and a move away from traditional petrol and diesel engines. The Conti.eContact will be available in sizes 125/80R13 and 145/40R13 from this year.