Continental AG is launching a new 4x4 SUV winter tire to gradually replace its 4x4WinterContact tire. The new tire is called the ContiCrossContact Winter and will be sold in Europe as well as the North American market.
The new tire will be available from July 2006 and will be produced in 18 different 15- to 18-inch sizes with speed ratings from Q to V. Continental says that two sizes of the tire are designed specifically for the North American market.
The tire features an asymmetrical tread design and uses a new silica compound. In Continental tests versus the tire it is replacing, the ContiCrossContact Winter has improved braking distances on winter and wet roads by 11% and 6%, respectively. The maximum cornering speed in the wet is better by 12% and dry handling is up 6%. This has been done while improving tread wear by 5%.
Continental says the 18 sizes will fit 50% of the European replacement market.
The new tire was introduced at a press conference in Ivalo, Finland.
