Continental believes that there is a growing market for hybrids in the future. These types of cars could account for 8% of all cars by 2020, the company believes.

The Conti.eContact features a range of newly developed technologies. It is also the first tyre in the range to obtain the top A label rating on the EU Tyre Label for both wet grip and rolling resistance.

Continental is claiming a 20% reduction in rolling resistance, thanks to the newly developed Green Chili compound. The silica compound of the new Conti.eContact is constructed in such a way that the internal friction of the filler particles and the polymers is lower than in conventional rubber compounds. This claims to result in lower rolling resistance, whilst maintaining the highest level of handling and braking performance when pushed to the limit.

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The sidewalls of the new Conti.eContact have also been redesigned to minimise aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance. They achieved this through the aerodynamically modified sidewall and its flexible, lightweight design.

When hybrid vehicles run in electric mode they are virtually silent. As tyre noise is no longer drowned out by engine noise, it is more noticeable. Continental claims that the new Conti.eContact is designed to generate minimal audible noise in the interior. This is achieved with the aid of ContiSilent technology, a thin layer of polyurethane foam attached to the inside of the tread that claims to reduce the vibrations that are generated as the tyre rolls across the surface of the road.

The Conti.eContact tyre will feature the “BlueEco” logo on the sidewall and be available in six sizes for 17 and 18-inch rims, specially designed for models such as the Opel Ampera, BMW 5 series ActiveHybrid, Lexus LS 600h and Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid. The Conti.eContact will also be available for other cars and SUVs with hybrid drive.