Continental will launch its new van tyre, the Vanco 2, in April 2007. Vanco was Continental’s most successful light commercial vehicle tyre. Its successor, the Vanco 2, will come with a host of additional benefits for the end user including more mileage and a handling performance equal to that of a passenger car tyre.

With the continuing growth of van sector, Continental’s new offering is an important addition to the market. The light commercial vehicle sector has grown 60% in the last ten years now representing two million new van sales a year across Europe. This is partly due to the significant increase in city distribution traffic with small distance and small package distribution up 38% compared to 1995.

Recognising this, the vehicle manufacturers have launched 13 new models in the medium and heavy van segments in 2006 alone. This strengthens Continental’s position as almost one in three new vans are being fitted with a Continental van tyre.

Product manager at Continental, Peter Robb, said; “The new Vanco 2 is an important update for us. With 20% more mileage compared to the old model, high load resistance for demanding applications, excellent wet braking with outstanding aquaplaning protection to improve safety for all road users. The robust design of the Vanco 2 makes it perfect for both long and short haul journeys and city use.”

The developments continue with the VancoContact 2 which combines both the commercial and passenger requirements of the car-derived van sector. A stiff shoulder design gives the VancoContact 2 excellent handling with very good cornering stability. The wide circumferential grooves and optimised sipes provide fast water displacement and better grip in the wet for shorter braking distance.

By the end of 2007, Continental will have updated their van cold weather tyre range.