The new Volkswagen Passat CC four-door, first seen at the Detroit Motor Show, leaves the plant equipped with self-sealing Continental tyres. Using technology called the ContiSeal, the leading tyre manufacturer has developed a system that makes it possible for a vehicle to continue on its way even after a tyre has been punctured with a screw or nail: A protective layer on the inside of the tread immediately seals holes that develop when screws or nails puncture the tyre, so that no air can escape. "The seal works on nearly all leaks caused by objects up to 5 millimeters in diameter", says Detlef Zschörner, head of the Automotive Group Volkswagen / Audi at Continental. "That means they can prevent of about 85 percent of typical flat tyres."

Depending on the wheels fitted, the ContiSeal tyres for the Volkswagen Passat CC are manufactured in two sizes; 235/45 R 17 W or 235/40 R 18 W. The ContiSeal tyre has the high performance ContiSportContact 3 tread pattern.

Because the motorist won’t always notice that an object has gone into the tyre, Continental recommends that tyres be examined regularly for nails or screws. If in any doubt, motorists should consult with a car dealership or tyre dealer. Tyres with ContiSeal technology were first introduced as concept tyres at last year's IAA.

Continental is introducing the ContiSeal technology at the Geneva International Motor Show, booth 354 in hall 6. Volkswagen will be showcasing the Passat CC with the self-sealing tyres as part of its European premiere at the Geneva show as well (hall 2, booth 2.261).