ContiWinterContact TS 830 P: Test on the Alpe d’Huez circuit

The context. Renowned for its winter tyres, Continental wanted to demonstrate that its ContiWinterContact TS 830 P improved the effectiveness of driving aids such as ESP (electronic stability program) or ASR (anti-slip regulation) on the circuit.

The circuit. For the occasion, the Andros Trophy circuit at Alpe d’Huez was split in two. A configuration that allowed us to move from slaloms to hairpin turns, try out some hard braking and play with the terrain's natural relief and the combination of surfaces: Fresh snow, packed snow and ice.

The cars. To measure the performance of its tyre, Continental chose a Renault Clio 3 RS, a 201 HP road rocket fitted with the 205 45 R17 88 V and a Subaru Impreza XV 2,0D, a 4-wheel drive delivering150 HP fitted with the 205 50R17 93V.

The test. We completed 10 laps of the circuit with and without the electronic driver assistance system.

• Test of the ContiWinterContact TS 830 P with driving aids

Winter tyres with electronic driver assistance by rezulteo-tyres

Traction is more than ample: You can have fun while maintaining a safety margin.  Whether accelerating, braking or cornering, the car’s handling remains sure and precise. After a few laps, the car handles smoothly and naturally giving the impression that you’re driving a car with no aids.

• Test of the ContiWinterContact TS 830 P with no driving aids

Winter tyres without electronic driver assistance by rezulteo-tyres

When electronics are removed, the difference is obvious.  The car seems heavier and generates more inertia. It under-steers when accelerating and pulls to the right when braking. On the slalom, it is much slower and even stalls after a skid.

Tips and advice from rezulteo

When combined with high performance winter tyres, new generation driving aids should not be disconnected on snow.  The winter tyre + ESP combination helps reduce the sudden loss of grip and make maximum progress without risking safety.

But be careful, don’t be overconfident. Electronics cannot overcome physical laws. Drivers should always adjust their speed to their driving skills and their vehicle when driving on snow.