Continental has launched a new line of original equipment tires tailored for driverless vehicles. The aContact family incorporates advanced tire technologies engineered to meet the diverse demands of autonomous fleets. Optimized for robotaxis, shuttle services, autonomous delivery vehicles, and eventually private self-driving cars, these tires will soon debut on public roads in U.S. cities including Las Vegas and San Francisco.
With the rise of partially and fully automated driving, tire development has entered a new chapter—and Continental remains at the forefront. The company has long explored innovative vehicle concepts and their impact on tire performance, from ultra-lightweight models with alternative drivetrains to AI-driven vehicles. Since self-steering cars typically operate at lower speeds under controlled conditions, their tires must be capable of long, continuous service—a key requirement for robotaxi operations.
The aContact line integrates Continental’s best technologies to address the wide-ranging needs of autonomous mobility—whether in busy city traffic or on closed factory grounds.
aContact: Prioritizing Safety and Energy Efficiency
Autonomous driving is already shaping mobility in major markets such as China and North America. In cities like Shanghai, Beijing, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, robotaxis are becoming increasingly common. Both innovative start-ups and established automakers are accelerating development to support this rapidly growing transportation model.
Continental provides its tailored aContact tire solutions to multiple customers operating—or preparing to operate—autonomous vehicle fleets. Each application comes with its own set of requirements, which translates into different specifications for the aContact line.
Original Equipment Tires for Autonomous Fleets: Safety, Durability, and Efficiency
At the core of every model, however, is an unwavering focus on safety. Key features include short braking distances and precise handling, even in wet conditions. Beyond safety, operational demands vary greatly: a tire designed for vehicles navigating dense commuter traffic differs from one optimized for airport shuttles traveling along fixed routes.
To address these differences, Continental adjusts both the tread design and rubber compound. Customers may also opt for tires with reinforced sidewalls to extend service life. Many operators request reduced rolling resistance to increase the range of autonomous electric vehicles. Typically, these tires feature a narrow, tall profile—helping to minimize aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance, while supporting the added weight of large vehicle bodies and battery packs. This design not only enhances stability but also improves overall driving dynamics.
Continental also emphasizes comfort. By deliberately reducing external rolling noise during development, the company ensures that aContact tires provide a quiet and smooth ride—an essential factor for passenger-focused autonomous mobility.
“Self-driving robotaxis will soon be part of our everyday mobility – alongside traditional cars, cargo bikes and e-scooters,” says Meletis Xigakis, Head of Research and Development for the original equipment business at Continental Tires. “To ensure maximum efficiency, it is crucial they are equipped with tires made specifically for the job. That is where our aContact product line comes in, combining technologies that have been adapted and customized for the ordering manufacturer or mobility provider – promoting safety and optimizing performance and efficiency.”
Source: continental.com/en/press