Continental’s EcoContact 7 tire will come fitted as standard on the new Renault Clio. The tire – which will be supplied in in 16in and 18in sizes – earned top ratings on the EU tire label for fuel efficiency and rolling noise.
The EcoContact 7’s high energy efficiency is attributed to the latest rubber compound and smart energy casing technology, which uses new materials in the tire’s carcass, liner and sidewall to reduce internal friction and lower rolling resistance.
The tire’s aerodynamically optimized sidewall design enhances efficiency – Continental has combined several technologies to achieve this, including and ‘aerodimple’ structure borrowed from golf balls. Dimples in the sidewall reduce air turbulence behind the tire, meaning the vehicle requires less energy to keep the tire moving.
Continental has also focused on quiet driving, with the recently developed Silent Pattern tread design reducing rolling noise. Developers optimized the spacing and angles of the tread blocks to align with the noise frequencies typically generated at low speeds when driving in urban areas. As a result, the tire contributes to a quieter ride – for vehicle occupants as well as pedestrians and residents.
In related news, Hankook Tire custom-develops OE tire for Volkswagen Tiguan and Tayron
