Continental to Add Over 650 Ultra-High-Performance Tire Sizes by 2027
Continental is expanding its global ultra-high-performance tire portfolio, planning to introduce more than 650 new sizes by the end of 2027 to meet growing demand.
German tire manufacturer Continental is significantly expanding its global ultra-high-performance (UHP) tire range. The company plans to introduce over 650 new UHP tire sizes by the end of 2027, responding to market trends of larger, heavier, more powerful, and increasingly electrified vehicles.
Continental defines UHP tires as those measuring 18 inches and above. The segment has experienced substantial growth; UHP tires accounted for 55% of Continental's global passenger car tire sales in 2025, up from 41% in 2020. Regional shares show UHP tires making up 70% of sales in the Asia-Pacific region and 66% in the Americas.
The expansion is backed by investments in materials development, digital simulation, and extensive testing at laboratory and real-world facilities. Continental's SportContact 7 tire, available in sizes from 18 to 24 inches, has consistently performed well in international tire tests and is approved as original equipment by manufacturers including Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
The expanded UHP portfolio will cover Continental's major global markets and include tires from its secondary brands, such as Semperit and Uniroyal. This move addresses evolving automotive industry demands, including increased vehicle weight and power, and the specific requirements of electric vehicles, which place greater stress on tires during acceleration, braking, and cornering.