Continental Introduces UltraContact NXT, Enhancing Safety and Sustainability 

Continental Introduces Its Most Sustainable Series Tyre

Continental has become the first manufacturer to mass-produce a tyre with a high proportion of sustainable materials. The new UltraContact NXT consists of up to 65% renewable, recycled, and ISCC PLUS mass balance certified materials while delivering top-tier safety and performance. All 19 sizes achieve the highest EU tyre label ratings for rolling resistance, wet braking, and external noise. The UltraContact NXT will be available across Europe, including the UK and Ireland, from July.

A Step Towards Greater Sustainability

Ferdinand Hoyos, Head of Business Area Replacement Tyres EMEA, emphasised Continental’s commitment to balancing safety, performance, and sustainability, calling the UltraContact NXT a significant step forward in the company’s sustainability journey.

The tyre comprises up to 32% renewable materials, such as resins derived from the paper and wood industries, and bio-based silica from rice husk ash, an agricultural byproduct. Natural rubber remains an essential component, ensuring durability and strength.

Recycled materials make up to 5% of the tyre’s composition. This includes reclaimed rubber from end-of-life tyres and recycled steel. Additionally, Continental employs ContiRe.Tex technology to convert PET bottles into high-performance polyester fibres for the tyre carcass, preventing waste and reducing environmental impact. Depending on the size, each UltraContact NXT incorporates between nine and fifteen recycled plastic bottles.

Mass Balance Certification for Transparency

The tyre also features up to 28% ISCC PLUS mass balance certified materials, such as sustainable synthetic rubber and carbon black, derived from bio-based, bio-circular, or circular sources. The certification guarantees traceability and transparency throughout the supply chain, verifying compliance with sustainability standards.

Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

As part of its Vision 2030 strategy, Continental is continuously enhancing its sustainability efforts. The company aims to achieve over 40% renewable and recycled content in all newly manufactured tyres by 2030 and reach 100% sustainable materials by 2050.

Designed for All Vehicle Types

An evolution of the UltraContact range introduced in 2022, the UltraContact NXT is suitable for both electric and traditional combustion engine vehicles. It carries the EV Compatible logo and is available for various models, including the Kia Niro, VW ID.3, Mercedes-Benz EQA, Tesla Model 3, Audi Q4 E-TRON, Skoda Octavia, VW Golf 8, and Audi A3. The new tyre will gradually replace the existing UltraContact dimensions, ensuring maximum efficiency and mileage performance.