Continental's Pioneering Tire Technology: Aerodimples in Action

image
Continental's Pioneering Tire Technology: Aerodimples in Action - Image for illustration purposes only
02-11-2025motortrend
Continental is making waves with a unique innovation borrowed from the world of golf: dimples. While the company isn't in the business of making golf balls, they've drawn inspiration from them for their latest tire models, the EcoContact 7 and 7 S, specially designed for European roads.

The Concept of Aerodimples

- Design Innovation: Small dimples, known as "aerodimples," are strategically placed on the tire's sidewalls—just below the tread block and above the sidewall lettering.
- Purpose: These dimples reduce air resistance by minimizing air turbulence around the tire, which theoretically helps vehicles use less energy.

Cutting-Edge Tread Patterns

- Urban Silent Tread: At speeds up to 31 mph, these tires operate quietly, benefiting both electric vehicles (EVs) and improving internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles with advanced sound-efficient exhaust systems.

The Versatile Green Chili 3.0 Compound

- EcoContact 7: Developed for silent and fuel-efficient driving, featuring a special filler system and optimized polymer network to lower energy dissipation.
- EcoContact 7 S: Enhances wet grip and handling with special additives and resins for better steering precision.

Availability

Unfortunately for U.S. drivers, the EcoContact 7 and 7 S won't be directly marketed in the States. They'll only be available on vehicles imported from Europe with these tires pre-installed.

Summary

Continental is breaking new ground with tires that resemble golf balls more than ever. Their EcoContact 7 and 7 S models use aerodimples to reduce air resistance and offer advanced tread compounds for both energy efficiency and handling prowess. While this exciting technology is currently exclusive to European customers, it highlights Continental's innovative approach to tire design.

What Others Are Saying...

No comments yet