Continental EcoContact 7 Chosen as Original Equipment Tyre for New Smart #5 Electric SUV

Continental has been selected as the original equipment tyre supplier for the new smart #5, the largest vehicle in the smart range to date. The all-electric SUV will be factory-fitted with the Continental EcoContact 7 summer tyre as standard, with OE approvals granted for two sizes: 255/45 R20 105 V XL FR and 255/40 R21 102 V XL FR.

Both approved sizes carry the XL marking, denoting increased load capacity to accommodate the additional weight of the smart #5's battery system. Each version is rated for speeds of up to 240 km/h, making them well suited to the performance credentials expected of a premium electric SUV.

Aerodynamic Design at the Core

The EcoContact 7 draws on an unusual source of inspiration for its tread architecture. The tyre's sidewall features what Continental describes as an aerodimple structure, modelled on the dimpled surface of a golf ball. The design reduces air turbulence generated behind the rotating tyre, which in turn lowers the aerodynamic drag acting on the vehicle and reduces the energy required to maintain speed.

This aerodynamic optimisation is supported by a range of material-level improvements. Newly developed compounds in the tyre's carcass, inner liner and sidewall reduce internal friction, contributing to lower overall rolling resistance. An adapted rubber compound further enhances energy efficiency across a range of road conditions.

Quiet Running for Urban Environments

Continental has also incorporated a silent pattern tread design into the EcoContact 7, developed to reduce rolling noise at the speeds most commonly encountered in urban driving. The noise reduction properties are precisely tuned to the frequencies that typically arise at around 50 km/h, a speed range where tyre roar is particularly noticeable in quieter electric vehicles.

The combination of reduced rolling noise, low rolling resistance and high mileage potential positions the EcoContact 7 as a strong candidate for electric vehicle fitment programmes, where range efficiency, cabin refinement and durability are among the primary procurement criteria for OEM partners.

A Growing OE Relationship with the EV Sector

This approval for the smart #5 adds to a growing portfolio of EV original equipment wins for Continental. The company has previously been selected to supply tyres for a range of electric models from manufacturers including Ford and Polestar. Ford's new electric Explorer and Capri SUVs were factory-fitted with Continental's EcoContact 6 Q, while the Continental SportContact 7 was approved as original equipment for the Polestar 3 electric performance SUV.

Continental's broader commitment to sustainability has been a consistent theme across its product development. The company targets more than 40 per cent sustainable materials in its tyres by 2030, with a goal of full sustainability across its tyre portfolio by 2050.

The EcoContact 7 fitment for the smart #5 is approved across numerous markets. The two OE-specified sizes are:

• EcoContact 7, 255/45 R20 105 V XL FR
• EcoContact 7, 255/40 R21 102 V XL FR

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Tagged with: Continental EcoContact 7, smart #5 tyres, OE tyre fitment, electric SUV tyres, EV tyre rolling resistance, aerodynamic tyre design, XL load index tyre, original equipment tyres, low rolling resistance EV, premium summer tyre

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