ContiEcoContact 3: Ground-Braking Safety
New Rally Tyres from Colway

ContiEcoContact 3: Ground-Braking Safety

Continental Tyres have announced the launch of the new S&T rated tyre, the ContiEcoContact 3, which has been designed with a view to providing considerable safety benefits to the motorist. Designed for compact and sub-compact cars, the ContiEcoContact 3 combines an innovative silica compound, an advanced tyre contour and the latest in asymmetrical tread patterns. According to Continental, substantial improvements have been achieved through this combination of measures, with braking distances being improved by 9%. For the motorist this means a considerable safety benefit. From 56mph a car fitted with ContiEcoContact 3 tyres will stop a car's length shorter.

This enhanced safety is the result of the optimum combination of tread compound and tread pattern design. The compound provides the grip and the asymmetrical tread pattern, with its circumferentially stiff central ribs ensure exceptional braking performance combined with precise steering response and road holding. The sturdy, closed outer shoulder guarantees high stability when cornering and also reduces noise levels.

Another benefit of the asymmetrical tread pattern is an increase in aquaplaning safety. Wide grooves in the tread pick up water and channel it rapidly between the tread lugs on the tyre's inner side and away from the ground contact patch. To further enhance grip in the wet, straight sipes were introduced into the tread lugs. These break up the film of water, ensuring optimum grip on wet roads and a comfortable ride.

Rolling resistance was reduced by 12% which was achieved via the innovative polymer composition of the silica tread compound. This reduction in rolling resistance can considerably cut fuel consumption on cars fitted with ContiEcoContact 3 tyres.

Warren Richards, Brand Manager for Continental said: " When designing the new ContiEcoContact 3, we listened to the consumer's requirements and focused on improving safety by reducing the braking distances on both wet and dry roads. We have also improved fuel economy by reducing the tyre's rolling resistance by 12% and improved comfort by reducing road noise levels."

The ContiEcoContact 3 will replace the ContiEcoContact EP over time. The ContiEcoContact 3 is the 3rd member of the new Continental family of tyres, which also includes the award winning ContiPremiumContact and ContiSportContact 2. The new ContiEcoContact 3 range will be available from March 2003 in 19 sizes, with more sizes being introduced throughout 2003 and 2004.

Continental is currently undertaking an extensive OE approval programme with major manufacturers including VW, Ford and Vauxhall. The ContiEcoContact 3 will be positioned on the same price level as its predecessor.

New Rally Tyres from Colway

A new rally tyre for winter conditions and an up-dated version of a highly successful historic rally tyre are now available from Colway. Available in 185/70R15 size, the tyre is an addition to the Rally Plus range and has been developed specifically for loose surface, mud and slush conditions. The new tyre has a re-inforced casing and features the well-proven 'Nora-type' tread pattern in Colway's latest 'Formula' rubber compound. The new Rally Plus has been designed to suit current production category four wheel drive cars and, with 70 series profile, is also eligible for historic events.

In addition, Colway's most successful tyre for historic rallying, the EMJO - originally developed in Scandinavia - is now available in 185/70R15 size. With a new reduced width tread pattern the tyre is ideal for hard, mixed, surfaces. Both the new tyres will retail at under £50 , excluding VAT, and are available direct from Colway Motorsport, the official distributors of Colway competition tyres.