Continental has introduced a new generation of ContiConnect sensors that offer automated tyre tread depth measurements.

Fleet operators can now obtain precise, daily updated data on tyre wear, enabling them to plan maintenance and services more efficiently. The company claims this improves safety, efficiency, and sustainability while reducing costs and CO2 emissions.

The new tread depth measurement complements Continental’s existing ContiConnect solution portfolio, which includes tyre pressure, temperature, and mileage data. Continental will showcase these solutions at the IAA Transportation 2024 in Hanover from 17 to 22 September. The market launch is planned for the summer of 2025.

“Our new tyre sensor is a great all-rounder. It records tread depth accurately at all times, as well as tyre pressure, temperature and mileage. With ContiConnect, our customers can always keep an eye on the condition of their tyres and upcoming maintenance needs,” says Clarisa Doval, Head of Digital Solutions at Continental Tires. “We are the first to enter the market with a solution for measuring tread depth. In doing so, we are setting new standards. We offer our fleet customers an innovative technology that takes the efficiency and predictability of tyre services to a new level,” she adds.

The company will also introduce two new ContiConnect versions: Lite and Pro. ContiConnect Lite is a mobile app-based entry-level solution, while ContiConnect Pro offers a comprehensive digital tyre management solution.

ContiConnect Lite is a mobile app-based solution that provides basic tyre monitoring features. ContiConnect Pro offers a comprehensive solution with advanced features like automated warnings and recommendations.

Continental determines tread depth using new tyre sensors and AI-based algorithms. The sensors measure changes in radial acceleration, and the AI analyzes tyre specifications, mileage and vehicle-specific factors to predict tread depth and expected tyre mileage.

This data allows fleet managers to efficiently plan tyre maintenance and changes, reducing the need for manual inspections and avoiding unexpected downtime. This improves fleet safety, efficiency and sustainability.

“Changing a tyre too early results in unnecessary wear and higher costs. Changing it too late reduces safety and increases fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Our solution – the combination of the sensor tread depth measurement and our predictive models – enables fleets to further increase their efficiency and their sustainability,” says Clarisa Doval.

ContiConnect is a key component of Continental’s “Lowest Overall Driving Costs” (LODC) consulting approach. Tyres significantly impact fuel, maintenance, and repair costs, which can account for up to 50 percent of total fleet operating costs. Continental added that premium tyres, data-based service management, and timely tyre checks could significantly reduce these costs.

Chinese automaker Zeekr has selected Continental's PremiumContact 6 tyres as original equipment (OE) for its Zeekr 001 electric sedan. The sedan will be fitted with 265/40 R22 106V XL FR size tyre, specially designed for dynamic and responsive handling while providing safety and comfort.

The tyres refined design guarantees control and strong cornering stability at higher speeds, while its superior grip performance guarantees efficient power transmission to the road. The tread's shape enables both precision steering and a fast reaction. Excellent safety and braking performance on both wet and dry roads are guaranteed by the unique silica rubber compound, which is made for safe driving in all weather situations. Additionally, the reduced rolling resistance contributes to longer battery life of the vehicle. Even on damp roads, the tyre provides excellent safety qualities, accurate handling and short stopping distances.

Continental's PremiumContact 6 tyre has been selected as original equipment (OE) by US car manufacturer Cadillac for its LYRIQ-V. The electric SUV will be factory-fitted with the premium tyre in size 22 inches.

At higher speeds, the PremiumContact 6's refined design offers control and strong cornering stability, and its superior grip performance guarantees that power is delivered to the road efficiently. Fast reaction and accurate steering are made possible by the circumferential groove design. The tyre's unique silica rubber formula ensures superior braking on both wet and dry roads, making it designed for safe driving in all weather situations. Furthermore, the reduced rolling resistance contributes to the vehicle’s longer battery life. The tyre also provides precise handling, low stopping distances and exceptional wet-weather qualities.

The main goals of Continental's tyre development are low rolling resistance, minimal rolling noise and high mileage. The tyre is safe, comfortable and made for dynamic, responsive driving. These characteristics are especially advantageous for electric vehicles like the LYRIQ-V. The tyres are made to handle the added weight of electric vehicles brought on by the battery because of their higher load index.

Global leading tyre company Hankook Tire & Technology (Hankook Tire) and renowned German luxury mobility brand BRABUS have unveiled a new brand film titled ‘Electrified, Hankook iON & BRABUS’. The video emphasises the two businesses' mutual love of cutting-edge technology and creative design principles for future transportation.

With this alliance, Hankook Tire and BRABUS are further solidifying their premium brand status. The two businesses are spearheading the electrification revolution in mobility with Hankook's world-first complete range of electric vehicle tyres, ‘iON’, and BRABUS's proficiency in customising high-performance electric vehicles. The iON evo SUV tyre consistently supports the fast, dynamic manoeuvrability of BRABUS cars by providing outstanding grip and accurate handling on both wet and dry track surfaces. Even in the busiest driving situations, it flawlessly muffles all road noise, greatly boosting the immersive feeling portrayed in the movie.

In the video, a BRABUS-customised Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 with Hankook Tire's iON evo SUV tyres exhibits exceptional driving capabilities on Germany's renowned Circuit Meppen circuit. Last year, in anticipation of its role as an Official BRABUS Technology Partner, Hankook Tire released a 10-second teaser video that garnered a lot of international attention before the full-length release. Hankook Tire's official worldwide YouTube and Instagram accounts now feature the whole brand film.

Nexen Tire has continuously increased its supply of original equipment (OE) tyres to international automakers over the years, and their most recent collaboration with luxury automaker BMW Group emphasises the company's rising industry awareness.

Thanks to a number of crucial design elements, N'Fera Sport tyres offer exceptional dry, wet and handling performance. N'Fera Sport has a block design for superior dry and wet handle performance at high speed and a larger longitudinal groove for better drainage performance in wet circumstances. Furthermore, the tyre uses the most recent tread composition to improve braking and grip, while sidewall reinforcements increase stability at high speeds, providing exceptional handling and stability when turning. Most notably, the tyre has an AI-optimised engineering technology-based optimal design that increases fuel efficiency and reduces road noise. The Nexen Tire Europe factory ensures exceptional quality and performance by producing these high-performance tyres with cutting-edge automation and competitive quality.

As of 2024, Nexen Tire distributes OE tyres to 118 models of international automakers, having begun delivering OE tyres to luxury manufacturers in 2016. This accomplishment is the result of Nexen Tire's ongoing R&D expenditures to create high-quality goods that highlight its state-of-the-art technology. By utilising virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) technology, the business also spearheads tyre development and intends to deepen its alliances with international automakers.

Travis Kang, Global CEO of Nexen Tire, said, “To supply original equipment tyres, tyre manufacturers must meet the high standards of safety and performance required by automakers. We will continue to expand our supply to premium brands, demonstrating our exceptional quality and technological prowess.”