Continental

German automotive supplier founded in Hanover in 1871

Tyres, brake systems, electronics and interior components supplying major carmakers from one of Europe's largest auto suppliers.

GermanyGermanyAutomotiveTyresAutomotive electronicsFounded 1871

About Continental

Continental AG began in Hanover in 1871 making rubber products and became a global automotive supplier spanning tyres, advanced driver assistance sensors, brake and chassis systems, and digital cockpit displays. The Continental brand appears on consumer tyres while the ContiTech and automotive divisions equip vehicles from Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes and most major OEMs worldwide.

Why consider Continental

  • Major European tyre brand with OE fitment on many factory cars
  • Deep R&D in ADAS sensors and automotive safety electronics
  • Continental WinterContact and PremiumContact lines for varied climates
  • Replacement parts widely available through European distributors
  • German engineering supplier supporting the broader European auto industry

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Brand comparison

BrandCountryPositioningMain categoryPrice level
ContinentalGermanyGermanyTyres and auto techAutomotive supplierMid to premium
MichelinFranceFrancePremium tyre innovatorTyresPremium
PirelliItalyItalyPerformance and OE tyresTyresPremium

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Brand details

Brand ownership

  1. Continental AG
  2. Continental Tyres
  3. Automotive divisions

Market presence

  • Tyre dealers and fitters across Europe
  • OEM supply to global automakers
  • Aftermarket parts distribution
  • Motorsport and EV tyre programs
  • Industrial ContiTech segments

Brand timeline

  1. 1871Continental-Caoutchouc founded in Hanover
  2. 1898Develops first pneumatic car tyre grooves
  3. 1987Acquires Uniroyal and Semperit tyre assets in Europe
  4. 2007Siemens VDO acquisition expands electronics division
  5. TodayTop-tier global automotive supplier headquartered in Germany