Automakers expect tires that not only demonstrate top
performance characteristics but are also particularly quiet, generating only
what the occupants perceive as a pleasant noise level. To meet these
expectations, Continental has introduced a new technology that substantially
reduces tire noise inside the cabin. The secret of success is a coating that is
bonded to the inside of the tread area after the actual tire production process.
This special layer of foam has a strong damping effect on the sound waves
caused by the rolling tire, so that no matter what surface the vehicle is
driving on, the noise level reaching the cabin is up to nine decibels lower –
making for a substantial improvement in the quality of the experience for the
occupants. As all of the other tire components and the tread pattern are
adopted from standard production tires, there are no differences in terms of
performance characteristics such as braking, handling or performance in the
wet. And there are no changes in terms of the rims or fitting process compared
with standard tires from the same product family.