Continental Brings Dandelion Rubber to Commercial Vehicles

According to Rubber World, a technical revolution is now available for commercial vehicles. Continental is for the first time unveiling components and tires for trucks and buses made from natural rubber derived from dandelion roots.

At the forthcoming International Motor Show Commercial Vehicles, the technology company will be showcasing for the first time truck tires made from this innovative and sustainable dandelion rubber: Conti EcoPlus HD3, which were manufactured in summer 2016.

On show will be also the prototype for an engine mount that links the power train with the chassis. This insulates the structure-borne noise from the engine, thereby enhancing ride quality and driver safety.

Another sampled product will be the first example of an intermediate propeller shaft bearing made from the new material, named Taraxagum. This stabilizes and minimizes the transmission of vibrations to the chassis.

As an agricultural crop, dandelions have the potential to become an alternative, environmentally friendly raw material source, thereby helping to reduce our dependency on traditionally produced natural rubber. But that is not all: The plants can be cultivated in northern and western Europe, which makes transportation routes to the European production sites much shorter and contributes to the sustainable use of existing resources. Continental has already recognized this potential, and as early as 2014 launched the first premium winter tire featuring a tread made from pure dandelion rubber.