Last Updated on January 26, 2025
Over 150 Years of History- Everything You Need to Know About Continental Tires
In the automotive world, brands with a long history enjoy a special status among car enthusiasts. Continental, a pioneer in tire production with over 150 years of expertise, is one such company. Renowned for its pursuit of perfection and groundbreaking concepts, Continental has always been among the most respected brands in the industry, with quality products that stand out from the rest.
With a global network of development centers and production facilities and an annual production of over 50 million tires, Continental is one of the leading brands and technical powerhouses that keeps the industry moving forward. But what makes the Continental tires so successful?
The Short History Of Continental Tires
Founded in 1871 in Hanover, Germany, Continental began as a rubber manufacturer, producing rubberized fabrics, solid tires for carriages, and other industrial rubber products. Even in those early days, the brand soon became famous for its quality and dedication to perfection.
With the automotive revolution underway in the early 20th century, Continental shifted to producing car tires and revolutionizing the segment with the introduction of treaded car tires(in 1904—a revolutionary advancement that set them apart in the European market. Another significant milestone was the introduction of radial tire technology in the early 1960s. Continental was one of the first companies to fully adopt this trend, and it soon became the industry standard.
Today, Continental is dominant in tire production and heavily involved in other industries, including IT, research, and development. The company also produces and sells rubberized components for industrial purposes and is even involved in the aerospace sector.
The Continental Approach
Since its inception in the late 19th century, Continental has prioritized offering high-quality, high-performing products as its defining characteristic. This reputation for quality and precision engineering extends to trucks, buses, industrial machines, and military vehicles – industries that demand durability and reliability in on and off-road environments. Continental is one of the most regarded names for those uses.
Besides trucks and heavy machinery, Continental is also very active in producing bicycle and motorcycle tires. In fact, if the vehicle has wheels, Continental makes the tires for it. All of that makes the Continental tires a common choice for OEM applications.
Continental’s Cutting-Edge Technology
Quality alone isn’t enough to stay ahead. Continental concentrates on new technology, quality materials and innovative concepts to push tire technology forward. Here are the most significant technical features:
ContiSeal: Seals punctures in the tread area, significantly reducing the risk of air loss and enabling drivers to continue their journey without immediate repair.
- ContiSilent: This noise-reducing technology uses a unique foam layer inside the tire to dampen road noise, ensuring a quieter, more comfortable ride.
- Advanced Silica Compound: This compound enhances the tire’s grip on wet roads while also improving fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance.
- Adaptive Cap Ply Technology: Increases tire stability at high speeds for better performance and safety during high-speed driving.
- EcoContact and BlueContact Technologies: Focus on environmental sustainability, reducing rolling resistance, extending tire life, and contributing to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
- Run-Flat Technology: Continental’s Run-Flat Technology allows drivers to continue driving for a limited distance after a puncture, reducing the risk and inconvenience of being stranded due to a flat tire.
- ContiConnect and ContiPressureCheck: Digital tire monitoring systems provide real-time tire pressure and temperature data, helping fleet operators maintain optimal tire conditions and improve overall vehicle efficiency.
Most Popular Continental Tire Models For 2025
Continental offers a versatile lineup of tires for all applications, including winter, all-season, and summer tires. Here is a quick breakdown of the most popular Continental tire models:
1) Continental WinterContact TS
Features:
- Improved silica compound for better grip on icy roads
- Optimized tread pattern for water evacuation
- Reduced rolling resistance
Specifications:
- Available in sizes from 14 to 19 inches
- Speed ratings up to T (118 mph)
- Price: From $247 per tire, depending on size.
2) Continental VikingContact 7
Features:
- Nordic compound technology for extreme winter conditions
- Enhanced sipe design for better traction on snow and ice
Specifications:
- Available in sizes from 15 to 20 inches
- Speed ratings up to H (130 mph)
- Price: From $120 per tire.
3) Continental TrueContact Tour
Features:
- EcoPlus technology for improved fuel efficiency
- Enhanced tread life
- Superior wet braking
Specifications:
- They are available in sizes from 15 to 19 inches
- Speed ratings up to V (149 mph).
- Price: From $106 per tire.
4) Continental ProContact TX
Features:
- All-season performance with a focus on comfort
- Noise reduction
- Fuel efficiency
Specifications:
- They are available in sizes from 15 to 20 inches
- Speed ratings up to W (168 mph)
- Price: From $98 per tire.
5) Continental ExtremeContact Sport
Features:
- Tuned Performance Indicators for optimal grip
- SportPlus Technology for improved handling and wet braking
Specifications:
- Available in sizes from 15 to 22 inches
- Speed ratings up to Y (186 mph)
- Price: From $160 per tire.
6) Continental PremiumContact 6
Features:
- Advanced silica compound for enhanced wet grip
- ComfortRide Technology for smoother rides®
Specifications:
- Available in sizes from 16 to 22 inches
- Speed ratings up to Y (186 mph).
- Price: From $178 per tire.
Why Tires Easy Is The Best Place For Shopping For Continental Tires
Besides being bonafide tire fans and experts, Tires Easy offers fantastic deals with the best prices and terms. This includes a 45-day return policy, free delivery, and a wide range of tires, including high-quality Continental rubber. What sets us apart is our vast network of 1000+ trusted tire installers like Pep Boys and Monro, with free shipping to their locations. If you opt for this service (free shipping and installation), you’ll get a fantastic deal that is tough to beat. With over 7 million tires sold, we are the top choice on the market.
Conclusion
For over 150 years, Continental’s legacy has been marked by continuous innovation, quality, and a commitment to meeting its customers’ evolving needs. Whether for passenger cars, commercial vehicles, or specialty applications, Continental’s diverse range of products and advanced technologies ensure that it remains at the forefront of the tire industry.
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