#Products

Continental Releases New Fuel-Efficient Long Haul Drive Tire

12/02/2024

Fast Facts

Continental's new fuel-efficient drive tire provides up to 10 percent improvement in rolling resistance compared to the predecessor*
The Conti HDL 3 EP has an innovative groove geometry tread improving cut and chip by 15 percent compared to the predecessor+
The Conti HDL 3 EP will be available in the most common long-haul drive sizes

A dynamic view showcasing the sleek design of the Conti HDL 3 EP tire.

The Conti HDL 3 EP combines high-structure carbon black and silica technology to deliver a well-balanced mix of rolling resistance and durability making it a fuel-efficient long haul drive tire.

The innovate groove geometry of the HDL 3 EP minimizes stone retention and has up to a 15 percent chip and cut resistance compared to its predecessor.

Conti HDL 3 EP, 3-Quarter View
Conti HDL 3 EP, Tread View

FORT MILL, S.C., December 2, 2024 — Continental, one of the largest tire and automotive technology suppliers in the world, has released a new fuel-efficient, long-haul drive tire for the United States Market.

The Conti HDL 3 EP combines high-structure carbon black and silica technology to deliver a well-balanced mix of rolling resistance and durability. With a polymer matrix-bound silica compound, it achieves up to 10 percent better rolling resistance compared to its predecessor and is SmartWay verified for Class 8 long-haul tractor-trailers, making it a top choice for fuel efficiency and performance.

“The Conti HDL 3 EP was purposefully designed with a fleet’s needs in mind – from being built on 3G Casing for maximum retreadability, to its improved rolling resistance and even wear,” said Shaun Uys, Head of Continental’s Truck Tire Replacement Business in the US. “This premium long haul tire was designed to help fleets achieve their lowest overall driving cost.”

Its closed shoulder design enhances mileage and rolling resistance, while its optimized footprint ensures even wear. Innovative groove geometry reduces stone retention, and the tire offers up to 15 percent improved cut and chip resistance, further extending its lifespan.

By utilizing a polymer matrix bound silica compound, the HDL 3 EP achieves up to a 10 percent improvement in rolling resistance compared to its predecessor.

Built on Continental 3G Casing that has a 240-245 mm retread width, the Conti HDL 3 EP features a state-of-the-art belt package that reduces heat, increases durability, and maximizes retreadability. For optimal performance and uptime, the tire can also be paired with Continental’s ContiConnect Live digital tire monitoring system.

The Conti HDL3 EP will be available in the most common long-haul sizes. The tire is launching for the replacement market in size 295/75R22.5 in load range G. Additional sizes will be available to both the replacement and original equipment markets by Q1 2025.

*Tested internally to ISO2850 for Smartway Verification verses the HDL2+
+Based off internal laboratory evaluations

About Continental

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.

Tire solutions from the Tires group sector make mobility safer, smarter, and more sustainable. Its premium portfolio encompasses car, truck, bus, two-wheel, and specialty tires as well as smart solutions and services for fleets and tire retailers. Continental delivers top performance for more than 150 years and is one of the world’s largest tire manufacturers. In fiscal 2023, the Tires group sector generated sales of 14 billion euros. Continental's tire division employs more than 56,000 people worldwide and has 20 production and 16 development sites.