Continental Sets New Standards for Vans with its First AAA-labeled All-Season Tire, the VanContact A/S Eco
- Triple-A rating according to EU tire label: VanContact A/S Eco is the first all-season van tire with a AAA rating
- Efficiency, safety, and comfort: new van tire combines all the requirements of modern mobility
- Significant leap forward: Tire is a strategic solution for original equipment manufacturers, dealers, and fleet operators
- Alternative drive systems: Tire solutions for environmentally friendly and sustainable mobility
Hanover, Germany, October 2, 2025. Continental has launched the VanContact A/S Eco van tire. As the first all-season tire with the highest rating in all categories of the EU label, it sets new standards in performance in the van segment. “With the VanContact A/S Eco, we have developed a tire that exceeds the expectations of original equipment manufacturers and modern fleet operators,” says Nicolas Jackisch, Product Manager Van Tires, EMEA. “Thanks to its optimized rolling resistance, the VanContact A/S Eco contributes to reduced energy consumption and lower CO₂ emissions, while maintaining high standards in safety and comfort.” The VanContact A/S Eco meets the highest EU labeling standards (A/A/A), supporting the evolving needs of the commercial vehicle industry – including electric vehicle compatibility, resource efficiency, and fleet performance optimization.
New standards in performance
The range of models among light commercial vehicles for transport, delivery and passenger use is growing. Quiet electric vans, which produce no exhaust emissions during operation, offer many companies and municipalities a practical and cost-efficient option for fleet electrification – especially in inner-city delivery traffic. Driven by increasingly strict emissions regulations, ambitious EU climate targets, and growing customer expectations for medium-term carbon neutrality, demand for electric light commercial vehicles is expected to rise steadily. At the same time, vehicles powered by conventional engines will remain a common sight on public roads for the foreseeable future.
For more efficient and responsible mobility
With the VanContact A/S Eco, Continental has developed a tire that is suitable for both types of drive systems, offering a resource-efficient solution for both combustion engines and electric transporters. The tire is marked with the EV Checkmark symbol on the sidewall, indicating its suitability for electric vehicles. “Our new VanContact A/S Eco reflects our commitment to innovation, responsible product development, and above all, customer-oriented design,” says Jackisch. “It sets new standards in the performance of van tires and contributes to a more efficient and environmentally conscious future in commercial mobility.”
Improvements in all performance categories
Continental's developers have implemented significant improvements in all three important label categories for the new VanContact A/S Eco: Rolling resistance has been reduced by 21 percent. Noise and vibration have been reduced by more than one decibel compared to its predecessor. In addition, the VanContact A/S Eco offers significantly improved grip in aquaplaning conditions by increasing resistance to tire float by ten percent. These tire performance criteria make vans more energy-efficient and safer on the road. This means noticeable cost savings, a longer range, and significantly improved driving comfort. As a reliable all-season tire, it eliminates the need for seasonal tire changes and reduces maintenance costs.
Innovative compound and tread technology
The performance criteria of the new van tire are made possible by innovative technology such as a weight-optimized construction, a tailor-made rubber compound, and a finely tuned tread design. Smart Energy Casing technology serves as the basis for adjusting energy efficiency in tire construction. A completely new steel cord belt system provides structural strength while supporting efficiency gains. Compared to previous tire series, the reduced distance between tread blocks minimizes external noise through an optimal pitch sequence and ensures a quieter and more comfortable ride. Advanced all-weather technology with snow catchers, a V-shaped tread and innovative sipes ensures reliable performance and safety in all weather conditions. “Overall, these innovations reduce vibration, improve grip and ensure reliable performance in all weather conditions,” concludes Nicolas Jackisch. “This enables us to support our customers in overcoming their diverse daily challenges, from stop-and-go traffic in the city to safe driving on the highway.”
The tire will be available in European markets in the dimensions 205/75R16C and 235/65R16C from the first quarter of 2026. Further sizes will follow depending on OEM approval.
Annette Rojas
Business Area Replacement Tires EMEA
Spokesperson Commercial Vehicle Tires
Continental Tires