According to Diethelm Bauch, head of commercial vehicle original equipment at ContiTech Air Spring Systems, the new units remain elastic even at the lowest temperatures.
"Conventional air springs lose their elasticity at low sub-zero temperatures and can develop leaks," states Bauch.
"With the new air spring, trucks are optimally equipped to operate in temperatures as low as -55°C," he says, adding that the new bags are badged with a distinctive snowflake symbol, as used on Continental winter tyres.
Bauch says Conti's first generation air springs have already proved successful in Siberia, and that the company has now brought out more variants – as well as versions for high temperatures up to 80°C (bearing a sun symbol).
Bauch makes the point that ContiTech operates its own laboratories worldwide as well as a certified test centre in Hanover, which was used to simulate not only heat and cold but also road tests.
"This reduces development times and strengthens our role as a development partner," he explains.
"Our decades of experience in regions with extreme climates and our extensive knowledge in development set us apart.
"As such, we are experiencing an ever-increasing demand from commercial vehicle manufacturers for these high-tech products."