The Mondeo, Ford's new flagship, is to be fitted with Continental tyres. A total of eight sizes have been approved by the Cologne-based vehicle manufacturer, including one model featuring SSR runflat technology and the emergency spare wheel. Germany's leading tyre and suspension specialist has also gained approval for the low cross-section tyre size 235/45 R 18 W XL to be fitted to the Transit SportVan, Ford's new top model in its Transit range, which is manufactured in the UK.

Copyright: Ford

Ford has approved five tyre models in the ContiPremiumContact range - for 16" rims - for the new Mondeo, as well as two tyres suitable for 17" and 18" rims from the ContiSportContact family of products. Continental supplies the tyre size 235/45 R 17 97 W XL with SSR runflat technology. In the event of tyre failure, this tyre enables the motorist to continue his journey for up to a further 80 kilometres (50 miles) and will be used in the Ford Europe product portfolio for the first time.

Continental has been equally successful with the Transit SportVan, the special model from Ford. The SportVan will come equipped with 18" low cross-section tyres from the ContiSportContact 2 range; this tyre offers high grip during cornering, short braking distances and - for a sports tyre - comfortable driving characteristics.

Continental supplies the emergency ContiMobilityKit for several of the new Ford Mondeo and Transit models. In the case of tyre failure, this system enables the driver to continue his journey after a short stop. A compressor is used to insert sealant into the tyre to close off the puncture. The car can then be driven at a maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 mph) without any problems.