Conti Adds Low Profile Truck Tyre Sizes to US Range

A number of new sizes have been added to Continental’s low steer and drive tyre line-up in North America to cater to large capacity and car-carrier truck operators. Sales of the new low profile HSL2 Eco Plus (Heavy Steer Long-Haul) and HDL2 Eco Plus (Heavy Drive Long-Haul) tyre in size 295/60R22.5 begin in November, Continental Tire North America reports. This particular size, the company adds, is a full three inches shorter than the 275/80R22.5 size product, but each has 1,215 more lbs. additional carrying capacity in a single fitment for load range G.

The HSL2 Eco Plus and HDL2 Eco Plus truck tyres are intended to allow drivers of large capacity and car carrier trucks to handle highway travel safely, while reducing their overall operating costs. The HDL2 Eco Plus features a arrow-shaped directional tread pattern designed to minimise typical drive tyre wear effects seen in this application; the result is, says Conti, longer wear. Numerous tread blocks with several gripping edges provide traction and durability throughout the entire tread life.

The HSL2 Eco Plus tread design features wide shoulder ribs and narrow tread grooves, engineered for low noise and optimal weight distribution across the tyre’s footprint. Both the HSL2 Eco Plus and HDL2 Eco Plus use tread compounds optimised for low rolling resistance, Continental adds, yet both tyres are reported to provide long original mileage and excellent wear characteristics.

“Continental is meeting the increased demand for truck tyres that can handle higher load capacities, while also satisfying drivers’ needs for both long mileage and fuel savings,” Clif Armstrong, Continental’s director of marketing for commercial vehicle tyres in The Americas. “The HSL2 Eco Plus and HDL2 Eco Plus tyres offer large capacity and car-carrier trucks the ability to carry more weight without sacrificing the vehicle’s height.

“The HSL2 Eco Plus and HDL2 Eco Plus will also reduce the costs to operate these types of vehicles, with lowered rolling resistance and long tyre life. Add it all together, and these tyres are the solution that meets all of the needs of this specialised segment,” Armstrong added.