Continental AG Plans Split, Reflecting Germany's Shifting Model

Imagine a big company, Continental, that makes tires and car parts, wants to become three smaller companies.

This is happening because the way companies work in Germany is changing.

The boss of Continental thought staying big was good, but now thinks being smaller and faster is better, especially with problems in the economy.

This split might mean some people could lose their jobs and some workers are worried.

But the company hopes this will help it make more money by focusing on what each part of the company does best and react quickly to the changing market.