Cars are getting larger, heavier and more powerful, increasing the demands placed on their tyres. SUVs and high-output models are part of that trend, while EVs add extra battery mass and strong torque delivery.
Continental is responding by expanding its global ultra-high-performance (UHP) tyre range, with more than 650 additional sizes due by the end of 2027.
The German tyre maker classifies UHP tyres as those measuring 18 inches and above. The expansion covers original equipment and replacement tyres across Continental, Semperit and Uniroyal.
Modern UHP tyres have to carry higher loads while still delivering grip, short braking distances, precise handling, low rolling resistance, ride comfort and acceptable mileage.
Demand has already shifted strongly towards larger, higher-performance tyres.
“As modern tyres become larger, heavier and more powerful, tyres are becoming even more critical,” said Edwin Goudswaard, head of Research and Development for Continental’s Tyres group sector.
“They are no longer simply the vehicle’s connection to the road, but a key prerequisite for safety, efficiency and driving dynamics.
“The UHP segment clearly demonstrates how capable modern tyres need to be. The art lies in combining conflicting requirements at the highest level, and that is precisely what sets our tires apart.”
UHP products accounted for 55% of Continental’s global passenger-car tyre sales across all its brands in 2025, up from 41% in 2020. Their share reached 70% in the Asia-Pacific and 66% in the Americas, compared with 43% in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
For the Continental brand alone, UHP tyres made up about 62% of global passenger-car tyre sales last year, against 49% in 2020.
One of its main products in this segment is the SportContact 7, available in sizes from 18 to 24 inches and developed for high-performance combustion and electric cars.
Selected models from Audi, BMW, BYD, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Polestar, Porsche, Volkswagen and Zeekr use the SportContact 7 as original equipment.
Continental said the tyre has ranked among the top three in 27 of 29 international comparison tests since its launch, with testers frequently highlighting braking performance and handling in wet and dry conditions.
Developing such tyres involves digital simulations, laboratory analysis, bench testing and extensive track work. Continental tests UHP products at facilities including the Contidrom near Hanover, Arvidsjaur in Sweden and Uvalde, Texas.
The company also draws on work with tuning specialists ABT Sportsline and Brabus, as well as motorsport experience through racing-tyre subsidiary Hoosier, to refine compounds and construction for high-load applications.
