The Continental Ultracontact NXT summer tire is designed for dynamic versions of passenger cars of any body size. It is positioned by the manufacturer as an Ultra High Performance segment model with an increased share of up to 65% of recycled and renewable materials.
The tire's tread is made from a Yellow Chilli rubber compound, which is a complex combination of natural rubber, silica, and ash derived from rice husks. Additionally, technologies are used in its production to ensure exceptional uniformity of the compound. The ultimate result of its use was a significant increase in traction properties on wet surfaces, along with a reduction in rolling resistance and wear.
The tread pattern, traditionally for the German brand, features an asymmetric arrangement of elements, with a significant portion represented by lamellas. The numerous grooves are distinguished by their increased length and mutual arrangement, which forms virtually continuous transverse edges. In combination with the elastic, low-temperature rubber compound, this noticeably increases traction and braking properties on wet surfaces. It's worth noting the increased volume and polished surface of the longitudinal and transverse grooves, which also provides high stability of control in rainy conditions. Another feature of the pattern is the hypertrophied size of the shoulder zones and their trapezoidal profile. This design increases the accuracy of control and stability of grip during maneuvering, especially at high speeds. Another advantage of this design is a significant reduction in the risk of uneven wear and tear, which increases the tire's mileage. Here, it's also worth noting the rounded edges of the shoulder blocks, which further enhances this feature.
Key Features of the Continental Ultracontact NXT
- The Yellow Chilli rubber compound, using ash from rice husks, provides improved traction on wet surfaces, tread integrity during prolonged thermal exposure, reduced rolling resistance, and prevents rapid wear;
- A large number of extended transverse edges of lamellas and blocks provides excellent traction and braking properties on wet surfaces;
- The tread profile with variable curvature and enlarged shoulder zones provides easy handling and high stability at high speeds and during maneuvering, reducing uneven wear when driving dynamically.