Continental equips the 10 highest-volume EV makers in EMEA with original tires in 2025. Globally, 17 of 20 top manufacturers trust their products. This success stems from early focus on low rolling resistance and quiet noise. Meanwhile, EV sales climb worldwide, boosting tire demand. Experts forecast steady growth through 2026.
​Continental’s Strong EV Tire Leadership
Continental supplies tires to premium and volume EV brands like BYD and Volkswagen. In EMEA, they cover all top 10 high-volume producers. The Americas see 8 of 10 leaders using their tires. Asia Pacific features 7 of the top 10. Dennis Bellmund highlights their strategic early design for EV needs. Batteries add weight, so tires handle higher loads actively. Instant torque from EVs accelerates wear, yet Continental counters this effectively.
​Their tires reduce rolling noise, vital as EVs run quieter than gas cars. Engineers optimize for mileage and energy savings across drive systems. This approach wins trust from Stellantis, BMW, and Hyundai. In China, volatile markets see new players rise fast. Continental adapts quickly to these shifts. As a result, they maintain top positions globally.
​EV Tires Tackle Unique Vehicle Demands
Heavy batteries demand tires with high load capacity and low wear. Acceleration torque stresses rubber more than in combustion engines. Noise stands out without engine roar, so quiet compounds matter. Continental pioneered efficiency tires in 1993 with ContiEcoContact. The seventh generation, EcoContact 7, arrives now. Aerodimple tech from golf balls cuts air turbulence on sidewalls. This boosts efficiency for EVs and hybrids alike.
​Buyers gain longer range from lower resistance. Turkish EV market surges align with this; sales hit records in 2025. Istanbul drivers seek durable tires amid growing charger networks. Continental’s innovations fit urban needs perfectly. Therefore, adoption rises steadily.
​Global EV Sales Surge Drives Tire Innovation
Battery EV sales jumped 23% to 12.7 million units in 2025, per Fraunhofer ISI. China dominates with double-digit gains in Asia-Pacific. Europe registered 2.5 million, up 26% from 2024. North America held steady at 1.4 million. Forecasts predict continued rise into 2026. In Turkey, EV share nears 20% of fleet by 2030. Local hero TOGG boosts national pride and sales.
Tire makers like Continental scale production for this boom. EMEA confirms their EV strategy pays off handsomely. Premium tires now suit volume markets too. Thus, accessibility improves for everyday drivers. Battery costs fell 14% last year, aiding affordability.
Continental’s EcoContact 7 sets new benchmarks in aerodynamics. Dimples reduce drag, saving energy on every mile. This tech works across vehicle types seamlessly. Global forecasts show EVs hitting 18 million sales this year.
