How do you ensure that a newly developed OE tire meets the high expectations of car manufacturers? The requirements also change over time, especially in current times with the increasing focus on sustainability and electric mobility. All in all, pushing the limits in every direction is the mission at hand. Generally speaking, the core requirements relate to safety, reducing rolling resistance and increasing sustainability, noise levels in the cabin and exterior noise – all without compromising on safety. It differs from one country to the next and indeed from one automaker to the next. What are the key performance characteristics that an automaker expects a tire manufacturer to deliver? And while that may not be the norm, it does happen. In the best case, though, we would of course become involved in the concept stage of a new car development. These extended deadlines allow us to meet the requirements more than adequately. But right now, for example, we have inquiries about projects that have to be finalized in two years’ time. Let me put it this way: when we receive an inquiry, we typically have between three and four years to develop the ideal tire for a new car model. Car buyers ultimately want tires of the highest quality and, above all, highest safety that last as long as possible and let them enjoy their new car for a long time. During this time, we develop a tire that is best-suited for the car model and the market where it is released and then subject it to around 100 internal tests.

Getting there was not an easy path: it takes an average of four years from concept study to one of our tires being mounted on a new car made by an international manufacturer. No matter the make of your new car, whether you switch from a small car to an SUV, make the switch to an electric vehicle, or finally take delivery of your dream car, the manufacturers know: Continental tires stand for reliable safety.

This makes us a preferred choice of car manufacturers and places us ahead of most of our competitors. Car manufacturers in Europe opt for our products in more than 200 models. Whatever type of car you drive, there’s a good chance you’re already driving on Continental tires.

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