Continental and Renault Group have unveiled a strategic collaboration aimed at improving electric vehicle efficiency through advanced tire technology, potentially extending EV driving range by up to 30 kilometers per charge.
The partnership, developed under Renault Group’s innovation platform “Garage Futurama,” has produced a specially engineered tire based on Continental’s EcoContact 7. Designed specifically for future electric vehicles, the tire delivers rolling resistance up to 35% lower than the threshold required for the European Union’s top A tire efficiency rating.
According to Continental, lower rolling resistance reduces the energy lost as tires deform and generate friction while moving, a critical factor for electric vehicles seeking to maximize battery performance. For an EV with a 500-kilometer range, the new tire technology could add approximately 30 kilometers of additional driving distance.
The customized tire combines an optimized tread compound, redesigned sidewalls, and enhanced construction to improve energy efficiency without compromising safety or handling performance.
“Extremely low rolling resistance is key to enhancing the range of electric vehicles,” said Nicolas Champetier, Vice President of Innovation at Renault Group, highlighting the long-standing collaboration between the two companies.
A major component of the project involved virtual development tools. Continental utilized its Driver-in-the-Loop simulator, while Renault employed its ROADS driving simulator to recreate real-world driving conditions digitally. The combined approach accelerated development, improved testing accuracy, and reduced reliance on physical prototypes.
Continental estimates that its virtual technologies now save up to 10,000 test tires annually, contributing to more sustainable product development.
The new tire technology was showcased during Renault Group’s Sustainability Tour in Guyancourt, France, on June 8, underscoring both companies’ commitment to advancing cleaner and more efficient mobility solutions.
As automakers continue to prioritize EV performance and sustainability, innovations in tire engineering are becoming increasingly important in extending vehicle range and enhancing the overall driving experience.
