Original equipment: Factory Fitted with our tyres

The list of criteria for a new car entering the market is endless. Manufacturers have countless aspects to consider, fine-tune and perfect before their new car can make the desired impact. 

One of the many decisions they need to make is which tyres are best suited. In the end, the decision of which tyre manufacturer is to be the car's original equipment provider is a decision based on trust. Trust in safety, as well as trust in performance capability. 

At Continental, building trust with our customers and partners is elementary, and our story as original equipment providers speaks for itself. Time and time again, car manufacturers opt for our tyres. 

OE tyre development is a highly demanding business. At what stage of developing a car do manufacturers typically get in touch with us?

Let me put it this way: when we receive an inquiry, we typically have between three and four years to develop the ideal tyre for a new car model. But right now, for example, we have inquiries about projects that have to be finalised in two years’ time. These extended deadlines allow us to meet the requirements more than adequately. In the best case, though, we would of course become involved in the concept stage of a new car development. And while that may not be the norm, it does happen.

What are the key performance characteristics that an automaker expects a tyre manufacturer to deliver?

It differs from one country to the next and indeed from one vehicle manufacturer to the next. Generally speaking, the core requirements primarily relate to safety, and to reducing rolling resistance, noise levels in the cabin and exterior noise – all without compromising on safety. The requirements also change over time, especially with new technologies.  Back in the 1980s, for example, rolling resistance and fuel consumption played a relatively subordinate role, but that has changed fundamentally with the rise (and demands) of electric mobility. All in all, pushing the limits in every direction is the mission at hand.

How do you ensure that a newly developed OE tyre meets the high expectations of car manufacturers?

We run countless tests at the end of the development process, first in the labs and then out on the track. OE tyres in particular are subjected to comprehensive testing. The goal is to exceed our performance targets, be it for noise generation, deceleration or rolling resistance. Tests under lab conditions are followed by test drives under real-life conditions on our test tracks. Each team has its own test drivers to handle this task and evaluate if a newly developed tyre also works well on the road.

Taking delivery of a new car? Original Equipment tyres play an integral role in achieving a comfort and performance capabilities desired for a car, and greatly influences the driver's overall satisfaction with the vehicle. Most importantly, they guarantee safe journeys for you and your family.