Continental is one of the world’s leading automotive industry suppliers. We want to make individual mobility safer, more comfortable, and more sustainable through forward-looking products and services.

Continental was founded in Hanover in 1871 and is currently one of the five largest automotive suppliers in the world and is the second largest in Europe. As a supplier of tires, brake control systems, driving dynamics control, driver assistance systems, sensors, systems and components for the powertrain and chassis, instrumentation, infotainment solutions, vehicle electronics and technical elastomers, we contribute towards enhanced driving safety and protection of the global climate.

Continental is also a competent partner in networked automobile communication. With its six divisions – Chassis & Safety, Powertrain, Interior, Passenger and Light Truck Tires, Commercial Vehicle Tires, and ContiTech – Continental is a continuous driving force for future mobility concepts, and not just in the automotive industry.

As of December 31, 2008, we employed approximately 140,000 at some 190 locations in 35 countries. Our business units hold leading competitive positions. For example, we are number one worldwide for hydraulic brake systems, driver assistance systems, sensor technology, airbag control units, air suspension systems, telematics, vehicle instrumentation, and fuel supply systems. We are number two for electronic brake systems and brake boosters. In the tire sector, Continental ranks fourth worldwide and is the market leader in Europe in passenger and light truck tires and industrial tires. ContiTech is the world leader in the markets for foil for automotive interiors, conveyor belts, and rail vehicle air springs, as well as in other sectors.

Each division and each employee at Continental consider themselves to be not just suppliers of products and systems. Across the board, we at Continental take a holistic approach to the challenges our customers confront us with. We are a successful development partner. Our know-how goes directly to where it is needed: our customers.

	2008	2007
Sales (millions of euros)	24,238.7	16,619.4
EBIT1 (millions of euros)	-296.2	1,675.8
Adjusted EBIT2 (millions of euros)	1,837.3	1,841.5
Employees	139,155	151,654
1 Earnings before interest and taxes 2 EBIT before amortization of intangible assets from PPA (Purchase Price Allocation) and before depreciation of tangible assets from  PPA (only Siemens VDO) and special effects

Here you can find our Annual Report 2008 for more information.