Volkswagen ID. Cross fitment shows how tyre rolling resistance has become a range lever automakers can no longer leave to chance
Continental tyres are factory-fitted to the Volkswagen ID. Cross after the supplier won original equipment approval for the all-electric compact sport utility vehicle. Its EcoContact 7 summer tyre comes in sizes from 17 to 19 inches, and the automaker is also recommending Continental winter and all-season options.
Low rolling resistance is the EcoContact 7’s main selling point on an electric car, where tyre drag feeds directly into range. Its Smart Energy Casing places friction-reducing materials in the carcass, sidewall and inner layer, and the tyre is also built for high mileage.
Dimples on the sidewall, branded Aerodimple, calm the airflow behind the tyre to lower aerodynamic drag. A Silent Pattern tread dampens rolling noise, chiefly at urban speeds, where an electric drivetrain leaves less engine sound to mask it.
For colder months, Volkswagen points buyers to the WinterContact TS 870 P, whose tread and sipes are shaped to bite on ice and snow. Drivers wanting a single set all year can choose the 18-inch AllSeasonContact 2, developed for dry, wet and wintry roads.
The approvals apply in numerous countries and span five fitments. The EcoContact 7 is listed in 225/55 R17 97T FR, 225/50 R18 95V and 225/45 R19 92T FR, while the AllSeasonContact 2 and WinterContact TS 870 P share a 215/50 R18 96T XL size.
Source: Continental
Source: www.automotiveworld.com
