• Continental launches new size 315/45 R 22.5 drive axle tyre
• High load capacity of carcass thanks to 0° technology of belt ply
• New tread design guarantees high mileage with fuel efficiency

Hanover, Germany, March 5, 2015. More stringent checks to ensure compliance with the permitted overall height of volume transports pose significant challenges for transport companies and demand new vehicle concepts. The Conti EcoPlus HD3 is the German premium tyre manufacturer's first drive axle tyre developed exclusively for low-liners. This 315/45 R 22.5 tyre is especially designed for the requirements of the volume transport segment and despite its low diameter is suitable for axle loads of 11.6 tons in dual fitment. The incorporation of the latest technology makes this low profile tyre the lowest in its class, enabling the best possible use to be made of the 3-meter internal load height of the trailer without exceeding the maximum permitted total height. 

The Conti EcoPlus HD3, size 315/45 R 22.5, for the drive axle.

The maximum legal exterior height of four meters is a continual problem for fleet operators. The use of conventional truck tyres such as the 60 series does not allow the internal load height to be fully utilised, without exceeding the maximum permitted overall height. The new Conti EcoPlus HD3 315/45 is designed specifically for the drive axle of low-liners. With a diameter of just 852 millimeters, it lowers the fifth-wheel height of the towing vehicle to ensure that the permitted external height is not exceeded. To develop the tyre, Continental worked closely with truck and trailer manufactures who modified their vehicle concepts as a whole.

The Conti EcoPlus HD3 315/45 has a much lower diameter than a comparable 60s series tyre. In twin fitment, this tyre is still suitable for an axle load of 11.6 tons because the belt ply was constructed using 0° technology. To achieve narrower sidewalls for this low-profile tyre, a special carcass cord was used. This highly stable but very flexible material enables the casing to easily withstand localised high bending loads.  

The low tyre diameter also presents a special challenge to the rubber compound for the tread. Due to their lower rolling circumference, low profile tyres naturally have a lower wear volume. The new rubber compound of the Conti EcoPlus HD3 315/45 guarantees optimum tread wear with low rolling resistance. 

The ideal partner for this low-profile steer axle tyre is the new Conti EcoPlus HS3, size 355/50 R 22.5.

Like all of Continental's Generation 3 tyres, the Conti EcoPlus HD 3 315/45 uses a retreadable premium carcass featuring the patented AirKeep® inner liner against creeping loss of compressed air. The regroovable tread extends the life of the traction tyre and makes it more economical. The side wall of the Conti EcoPlus HD3 315/45 features both the M+S symbol and the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol (3PMSF), making it a safe choice for snow-covered roads too.

In the coming months, the Conti EcoPlus portfolio will be extended with the Conti EcoPlus HS3, size 355/50 R 22.5. Together with the Conti EcoPlus HD3 315/45, this low-profile steer axle tyre is the ideal choice for tractor units and semi-trailers in volume transport.

The Conti EcoPlus HD3 315/45 and the Conti EcoPlus HS3 355/50 are a welcome addition to the tyre family designed specifically for long-haul service and regional transport with frequent use of motorways.