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Continental is now the leading original equipment supplier of tyres to the world's electric vehicles manufacturers, writes Brian Byrne . Seven of the ten highest-volume electric carmakers specify Continental tyres for their products. They include Tesla, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, as well as Kia and Ford. Continental’s research has shown that tyres are responsible for up to 20pc of a vehicle's total resistance and therefore have a significant impact on energy efficiency. Reduced rolling resistance has a clearly measurable positive effect on the environment, as well as ensuring maximum mileage per charge. County Meath native David O'Donnell (pictured above), who leads the original equipment business at Continental Tyres, says the fact that so many manufacturers around the world are equipping their vehicles with the company's premium tyres is proof of Continental's development expertise and the premium quality of their products.  

All-season tyres have registered a 'huge' growth in the Irish market over the last two years, according to Continental Tyres Irish boss Tom Dennigan, writes Brian Byrne . Speaking at a media briefing to Irish journalists, he noted a 158pc increase in all-season sales in passenger cars, and a 448pc rise in the van segment. "All-season tyres are a good option for our mild climate," Mr Dennigan said, noting that we rarely see the levels of extreme cold or hot weather as experienced in continental Europe. Overall tyre sales in Ireland have rebounded from the 12pc 'covid drop' of 2020, and during 2021 are up 124pc compared to sales in 2019. Tom Dennigan said much of this is due to increased sales of tyres for vans, reflecting the big increase in deliveries due to online sales.