How Continental dominated Europe: In the fiercely competitive tire industry in Europe, Continental has established a clear lead over its rivals through its standout products: the Continental SportContact 7, Continental PremiumContact 7, and Continental VikingContact 7. These tires have set benchmarks in their respective categories, propelling Continental to the forefront of the market. In this overview, we will explore how Continental has achieved such dominance by delving into the design, performance, and strategic market positioning of these three key products.
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Continental SportContact 7
The Continental SportContact 7 stands out in the Ultra-Ultra High Performance (UUHP) tire segment for several compelling reasons, particularly its exceptional performance and multiple test wins. This tire has proven itself through rigorous press tests and direct comparisons with other leading brands. Below are Continental SportContact 7 ranking in the press test that it has competed in.
The Continental SportContact 7 has participated in a total of 9 press tests over recent years. Out of these, it secured the first place ranking in 8 tests. This impressive performance translates to a winning percentage of approximately 89%. This high success rate underscores the tire’s exceptional quality and performance across diverse driving conditions and test protocols.
Continental SportContact 7
- Press Test Wins: 8/9
- Win Percentage: 89%
How about the competition?
In head-to-head comparisons, the Continental SportContact 7 outshines its nearest competitor, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, especially in crucial performance metrics such as dry braking and wet handling. The SportContact 7 surpasses the Pilot Sport 4S in dry braking efficiency by 1.7%, managing to stop 0.56 meters sooner. Additionally, it demonstrates a 5.5% superior performance in wet braking, which is vital for maintaining control and safety under adverse weather conditions. This clear edge in key areas indicates a not-so-close contest with the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S.
Continental PremiumContact 7
The Continental PremiumContact 7 stands out as the premier UHP tire in the market today, owing to its remarkable performance across a wide range of tests and conditions. Below are a compilation of results Continental PremiumContact 7 has participated in.
This tire has clinched first place nine times, demonstrating its superior capability and consistency in handling diverse road conditions and vehicle types. Even in highly competitive settings, it has maintained near-top rankings with two second place finishes and one third place finish. Such consistent performance across 12 different tire sizes and vehicle categories underscores its adaptability and reliability.
Continental PremiumContact 7
- Press Test Wins: 9/12
- Win Percentage: 75%
How about the competition?
The Continental PremiumContact 7 has solidified its leadership in the ultra-high performance (UHP) tire category, excelling particularly in wet braking performance. It consistently ranks first in various demanding tire tests, including those by ADAC, Auto Zeitung, Sport Auto, and Motorhome Summer Tire Tests, showcasing its superior handling and safety in wet conditions. Below are the wet braking test positions of the Continental PremiumContact 7, which is one of the most important requirements for the UHP segment.
The tire’s flawless record in achieving top wet braking distances across all 12 tests underscores its design focus on safety and exceptional performance in wet conditions. This consistent excellence in crucial safety tests sets the PremiumContact 7 apart, making it a preferred choice for drivers who prioritize safety and reliable performance on wet roads.
Continental VikingContact 7
The Continental VikingContact 7 has consistently demonstrated its superiority as a studless winter tire, capturing first place 12 times over the past seven years. Additionally, it secured second place twice and third place once.
This impressive track record underscores its reliability and effectiveness in extreme winter conditions, making it the leading choice in its category and setting a high benchmark for its successor, the VikingContact 8 which was launch in 2024.
Continental VikingContact 7
- Press Test Wins: 12/18
- Win Percentage: 67%
How about the competition?
Continental VikingContact 7 ice handling performances has been the key in achieving all those press test wins. It has been outstanding in ice handling as it secures first place 15 times. It also placed second twice and third once in various tests.
Conclusion
Continental has effectively dominated the European tire market with three standout products: the Continental SportContact 7, PremiumContact 7, and VikingContact 7. Each tire leads its segment, consistently surpassing competitors in rigorous tests and key performance areas. The SportContact 7 boasts an 89% win rate in UUHP tests, the PremiumContact 7 excels with a 75% win rate for its superior wet braking, and the VikingContact 7 reigns as the top studless winter tire with a 67% win rate. This track record highlights Continental’s successful strategy in combining safety, performance, and innovation to lead the market.