The Conti.eContact was developed with Europe’s largest car manufacturers, and is unique because it offers a larger rolling diameter than a conventional tyre. With the extra size, Continental has designed more flexible sidewalls with wide circumferential grooves around the tread.

Continental said it believes the tyre will be a niche product at launch, but one which is expected to grow as the infrastructure for electric vehicles is improved and drivers move away from traditional petrol and diesel engines. 

At launch, the Conti.eContact will be available in sizes 125/80R13 and 145/40R13, suiting electric city cars. Sizes of up to 195/55R20 are being tested.