Conti hopes Eco-Plus XL goes even further26 August 2010

Continental has introduced a long-distance tyre that, it claims, will meet the requirements of operators and "help them achieve Euro 6 emissions standards".

Specifically, its HSL 2 Eco-Plus XL offers a higher load-bearing capacity on front axles, while maintaining low rolling resistance.

Continental makes the point that catalytic converters, exhaust gas recirculation equipment, particulate filters and larger cooling systems will all be required on trucks under the Euro 6 legislation, set to come into force in 2013.

To combat the greater load pressures caused by the addition of such items, Continental says it has increased the load rating of its XL tyre by two load indexes, or around 500kg of weight per single tyre axle.

Newly designed steel-cord beads, made from special high strength steel and a revised casing structure, allow the forces caused by additional weight and increased temperatures to be absorbed in the most effective way, the firm explains.

The tread compound also runs cooler, thanks to a newly developed material composition. Continental asserts that this, too, contributes to a very low rolling resistance, even when trucks are heavily laden.

The HSL 2 Eco-Plus XL is the first tyre from the second generation to have an upgraded load index and is available in sizes 315/70 R 22.5 for standard applications with a maximum axle load of 8 tonnes and 315/60 R.22.5 for volume-optimized vehicles with an axle load of 7.5 tonnes.

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
Continental Tyre Group Ltd

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