Continental Tire Completes Line with Seven New Models

Sept. 28, 2010

(VAI) Siping System
The Visual Alignment Indicator (VAI) Siping System provides an easy way to check tire alignment.
The Visual Alignment Indicator (VAI) Siping System provides an easy way to check tire alignment. Compare wear on the sipes located on both of the tire's shoulders, and then realign as necessary.
HDC
HDL Eco Plus
HSL Eco Plus
HSC
HTL
HSU
HDO

New developments to Continental Tire's premium truck-tire line include the Visual Alignment Indicator (VAI) Siping System for checking tire alignment. Equally positioned around the tire on both shoulder ribs, small sipes of various depths indicate tread wear.

With VAI, users can compare the sipes on the shoulder ribs to see where the rubber is worn, and then make realignments as necessary. Four of the seven tires feature the system: the HTL, HSU, HSC and HSL Eco Plus.

In addition to VAI, the HTL long-haul tire for trailers has a stone-ejection system and scuff ribs to protect sidewalls from curbing and cutting. Tread depth is 13/32 inches for minimal tread squirm and irregular wear.

Like the trailer tire, three steer tires have VAI and a stone-ejection system. Shoulder protection is also provided. With its cut- and tear-resistant tread compound, the 10,000-pound HSU delivers sufficient strength in high-scrub and on/off-road applications. Tread depth is 24/32 inches.

The second steer tire is ideal for logging and construction applications. The on/off-highway HSC all-position tire has a tread depth of 23/32 inches and a cut- and chip-resistant tread compound.

To reduce irregular wear, the last of the three steer tires—the long-haul HSL Eco Plus—features equal rib widths for even pressure distribution. A tread depth of 18/32 inches provides long mileage and low rolling resistance.

Unlike the trailer and steer tires, the shoulders of the three drive tires are not designed to accommodate VAI. However, they do have the stone-ejection system. In addition, the long-haul HDL Eco Plus has a closed-shoulder tread for even tread wear. Tread depth is 28/32 inches.

The second drive tire—the on/off-highway HDC—works well in construction applications. It features a self-cleaning tread pattern that provides optimal traction—regardless of weather conditions. Tread depth is 30/32 inches for long wear. A curb rib helps reduce damage from curbing, cuts and abrasions, and groove angles prevent stone retention.

The last drive tire is designed for off-highway applications. The HDO features a self-cleaning tread pattern. Its tread is 32/32 inches. Like the HDC, it features a curb rib to reduce sidewall damage.