In a major stride toward sustainable urban transportation, Continental has expanded its long-standing partnership with AarBus, the Danish public transport operator, by introducing advanced, energy-efficient tyres engineered specifically for electric buses. This collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to reducing carbon emissions and driving Europe’s transition toward greener mobility solutions.
Continental Strengthens Its Sustainable Mobility Partnership with AarBus
For over a decade, Continental has been a trusted technology partner for AarBus. The latest initiative marks a new phase in their collaboration, focusing on the integration of smart tyre technology and digital fleet management tools designed to enhance the efficiency and reliability of electric buses operating in Aarhus—Denmark’s second-largest city.
At present, one in every two AarBus vehicles is electric, positioning AarBus as a frontrunner in Denmark’s clean transport revolution. By 2027, the company aims to expand its electric fleet to 168 emission-free buses, drastically reducing its overall carbon footprint. Since deploying its first four e-buses in 2019, AarBus has already saved approximately 14,095 tonnes of CO₂, equivalent to the annual emissions of more than 9,000 cars.
Smart Tires Built for Electric Performance
A key highlight of this partnership is the deployment of Continental’s Conti Urban HA 5 tires, specially designed to meet the unique demands of electric buses. These tyres feature low rolling resistance, reinforced sidewalls, and high durability, allowing for smoother operation and extended range—crucial advantages for electric vehicles with limited battery capacity.
Hinnerk Kaiser, Head of Product Development for Bus and Truck Tires EMEA at Continental, emphasised the innovation behind the new tyre line.
“With the Conti Urban HA 5, we’ve developed a tire optimized for electric drives that offers durability, efficiency, and sustainability. Our goal is to help fleet operators like AarBus transition seamlessly to zero-emission mobility,” Kaiser said.
Digital Tire Monitoring with ContiConnect Live
To maximise fleet performance, AarBus has begun integrating Continental’s ContiConnect Live—a real-time digital tyre monitoring system that tracks tyre pressure and temperature continuously. This system provides operators with instant data insights, ensuring optimal pressure levels, preventing breakdowns, and enhancing overall safety.
For electric buses, maintaining proper tyre pressure is particularly critical. Even small deviations can significantly affect energy consumption and driving range. By adopting ContiConnect Live, AarBus ensures that each bus in its fleet operates at peak efficiency, minimising maintenance downtime and improving passenger reliability.
Sustainability through the ContiLifeCycle Program
Continental’s environmental commitment extends beyond manufacturing. Through its ContiLifeCycle programme, the company promotes sustainable retreading practices that extend tyre lifespan and reduce raw material use. The programme enables used tyres to be renewed safely and efficiently, supporting circular economy principles and minimising environmental impact.
The Conti Urban HA 5 tire range is also compatible with Continental’s new NXT line, which uses up to 60% renewable and recycled materials—further advancing the company’s sustainability agenda.
Denmark’s Leadership in Electric Public Transport
Denmark continues to lead Europe’s push toward zero-emission public transport, aligning with the EU’s 2030 target of achieving 90% emission-free city buses. AarBus’ electrification strategy, supported by Continental’s advanced tyre technologies, serves as a benchmark for urban transport operators across the continent.
“With our focus on sustainability and smart mobility, we aim to help customers meet environmental goals without compromising performance or safety,” Kaiser added.
Driving Europe’s Green Mobility Future
The AarBus–Continental partnership showcases how technological innovation and sustainability can work hand in hand to build smarter cities and cleaner transportation systems. By combining intelligent tyre solutions, digital monitoring, and eco-conscious design, Continental is not just supporting AarBus’ electrification goals—it is actively shaping the future of Europe’s public transport sector.