Continental TS860 - an innovation for Winter Tyres

The Continental Winter Contact TS850 has been dominating the winter tyre market over previous years, coming out on top in just under 50 comparative tests run by the European trade press, automobile clubs and consumer organisations.

Continental have developed the Winter Contact TS860, which is proving to show some next level improvements on the TS850. Braking distances are 4% shorter on ice and 5% shorter on wet and wintry roads. There are also improvements towards handling, grip and general ride quality. These positive steps forward are a combination of a new tread compound put together with a newly developed tread design. The 'Cool Chili' compound has a highly flexible polymer matrix and a high proportion of silica, this reduces braking distances and shows noticeable improvement in traction on wet and wintry road surfaces. This compound is an all rounder and maintains its flexibility even at low winter temperatures, enabling shorter braking distances on wet, cold, icy and snow-covered roads.

As well as the 'Cool Chili' compound, the TS860 has also been designed with 'Liquid Layer Drainage', this basically means that when you brake on an icy road, a film of water is created under the tread, this reduces the tyre's contact with the road. Combined with an additional drainage channel in the tread, this allows the water to drain away much faster, leading to that all important shorter braking distance in cold weather.

Continental are expected to release the new Winter Contact TS860 to retail outlets from autumn 2016, until then, you can view our range of Continental tyres, along with many other premium brands available to you, by clicking here and entering your tyre size. If you would rather speak to a member of our team, just call us on 0800 783 9310 and we will be more than happy to help!

Written by Louise Cowlishaw - Hometyre HQ