Continental CrossContact H/T, the summer tyre for asphalt and dirt tracks

The rise of SUVs has brought changes to the various industries that supply parts, such as tyre manufacturers, who have had to advance their technologies to create tyres capable of meeting the demands of today’s SUVs, which weigh more and have more power than a conventional 4×4. In this regard, Continental presents its new CrossContact H/T, suitable for both SUVs and 4x4s.

Continental’s new CrossContact H/T comes to replace the ContiCrossContact LX2. It is a summer tyre that, thanks to the technology it incorporates, adapts to both on-road and off-road use, including gravel tracks, so it can be said to be a tyre that aims to resemble an all-terrain. It features a robust design that delivers performance and comfort, and it carries the M+S marking and can be fitted to vehicles with both combustion and electric engines.

Continental’s engineers began work on the CrossContact H/T with the premise of providing the greatest traction both on and off the road, but also making it more efficient and able to cover more kilometres than its predecessor, something they have managed to increase by 20%. To achieve this, they had to modify the tread pattern and the compound, which did not reduce its safety characteristics or the noise it produces, which remains low.

To give the CrossContact H/T these distinctive characteristics, a layer of rubber has been installed beneath the tread, which dampens road noise, while beneath this two layers of textile fabric prevent the carcass from being damaged by stones when driving on tracks. Below these two layers you will find double plies and two extra-strong steel belts, which make this tyre even more durable and resistant.

But Continental’s engineers wanted to make sure the CrossContact H/T was truly long-lasting, meaning it could achieve a high mileage, so they used a “alignment verification system“, consisting of 27 small rubber strips attached to the outer ribs of the tread. In addition, the tyre has a rim protector ring that protects the wheel when it comes into contact with stones.

With the arrival of spring, Continental will progressively increase production of the CrossContact H/T, which will be available for rim sizes ranging from 15 to 21 inches, and will also feature approvals up to 270 km/h. This means it can be fitted to the vast majority of European SUVs and 4x4s, and even to less common models in these parts, such as the Ford F-150 or the Chevrolet Silverado.