The public transportation industry in DACH focuses on providing effective and eco-friendly transport solutions. Key players include bus and rail operators, ride-sharing platforms, and micromobility services. Companies are innovating with electric vehicles and digital booking systems, which enhance user experience and accessibility. The sector is shifting towards sustainability, supported by government initiatives and an increase in demand for integrated transport solutions. Notably, DACH is witnessing a surge in investment aimed at urban mobility projects, reflecting a wider trend toward greener transportation options, including electric scooter and bike services that are gaining popularity in urban centers.


This list highlights 13 notable investors in the DACH public transportation sector, including corporate giants like Mercedes-Benz AG and venture capital firms such as HV Capital. Investors range from established corporations to emerging venture capital entities, with varying deal counts and founding years. Notably, some investors reported multiple deals in 2024, indicating a strong interest in innovative transportation solutions. Their influence shapes the market as they address evolving consumer demands and regulatory shifts across the region, ensuring a future aligned with sustainability and efficiency.


Top 13 Public Transportation Investors in DACH


1. Mercedes-Benz AG

  • Website: mercedes-benz.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
  • Founded year: 1883
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: mercedes-benz_ag

Mercedes-Benz AG, founded in 1883 and based in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is a prominent automobile manufacturer known for producing luxury vehicles and vans. The company has a strong focus on quality and performance, catering to both individual consumers and businesses. In addition to its core automotive operations, Mercedes-Benz has actively invested in the public transportation sector. Notable transactions include a $250 million investment in Via, a ride-sharing service, and a $175 million investment in Bolt, a transportation platform. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz has participated in funding rounds for FlixBus, a long-distance bus service, and Blacklane, a premium chauffeur service, demonstrating its commitment to expanding sustainable travel initiatives and innovative mobility solutions.


2. Volkswagen Group Investor Relations


Volkswagen Group Investor Relations is a corporate investor based in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany, founded in 1937. As a major automotive manufacturer and energy solutions provider, Volkswagen Group offers electric vehicles and charging solutions, catering to both consumers and businesses seeking sustainable energy options. The company operates through a multi-brand strategy, providing integrated solutions that include electric vehicles and renewable energy services. Notably, Volkswagen has made significant investments in the public transportation sector, including a series of funding rounds for Gett, an Israeli ride-hailing startup, where they invested a total of $300 million from 2016 to 2019. Additionally, Volkswagen led a consortium to acquire Europcar, a French car rental group, in 2021, further solidifying their presence in the transportation industry. These transactions highlight Volkswagen's strategic interest in diversifying its portfolio to include mobility and transportation services, aligning with the evolving landscape of public transportation.


3. Siemens

  • Website: siemens.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1847
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: siemens

Siemens AG, founded in 1847 and headquartered in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is a leading technology conglomerate with a workforce of approximately 320,000 employees. The company specializes in industrial automation, energy solutions, rail transport, and health technology, providing innovative products and services across various sectors. In recent years, Siemens has made significant strides in the public transportation sector through strategic acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of RailTerm, a Canadian transportation company specializing in rail services, aimed at expanding Siemens Mobility's presence in Canada. Additionally, Siemens acquired HaCon Ingenieurges. mbH, a company focused on planning and scheduling for public transportation, to enhance its digitalization strategy. Furthermore, the acquisition of Sqills, a Dutch rail software company specializing in inventory management and ticketing for public transport, underscores Siemens' commitment to improving public transportation systems. These transactions reflect Siemens' dedication to enhancing efficiency and sustainability in the mobility sector.


4. HV Capital

  • Website: hvcapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 28
  • LinkedIn: hvventures

HV Capital is a venture capital firm based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, founded in 2000. With over €2.8 billion under management, HV Capital specializes in investing in digital companies and supporting entrepreneurs from seed stage to exit. The firm has been actively involved in the public transportation sector, particularly through its investments in FlixBus, a leading intercity bus service. HV Capital participated in several funding rounds for FlixBus, including a $650 million Series G round in June 2021 and a $563 million Series F round in July 2019. Their strategic investments in FlixBus highlight their commitment to supporting innovative solutions in public transportation, making them a relevant player in this industry.


5. Speedinvest

  • Website: speedinvest.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Vienna, Austria
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 45
  • LinkedIn: speedinvest

Speedinvest is a venture capital firm based in Vienna, Austria, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in funding early-stage tech startups across Europe, providing both capital and hands-on support to help these startups scale their operations. Speedinvest's investment focus spans various technology sectors, including Deep Tech, Fintech, and SaaS. Notably, they have been actively involved in the public transportation sector through their investments in TIER Mobility, a leading provider of micromobility solutions. Speedinvest participated in several funding rounds for TIER Mobility, including a Seed Round in 2018, Series A in 2018, Series B in 2019, Series D in 2021, and a Convertible Note in 2023, demonstrating their commitment to supporting innovative transportation solutions that enhance urban mobility.


6. Deutsche Bank

  • Website: db.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1870
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 32
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-bank

Deutsche Bank AG is a prominent investment bank and financial services provider based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 1870. The bank offers a wide range of solutions including investment banking, corporate banking, cash management, trade finance, and securities services. It serves corporate and institutional clients, helping them manage their financial assets and liquidity effectively through its digital platform, Autobahn. In recent years, Deutsche Bank has been involved in several significant transactions relevant to the public transportation sector. For instance, in May 2024, Deutsche Bank participated in a €220 million credit facility for Bolt, an Estonian mobility company, which is a direct competitor to Uber. This funding is aimed at supporting Bolt's preparations for an IPO. Additionally, Deutsche Bank was involved in a $1.5 billion debt financing for Transnet SOC Ltd, a key player in logistics and freight transport in South Africa, announced in July 2022. These transactions highlight Deutsche Bank's active role in financing companies that are integral to the public transportation ecosystem.


7. Rocket Internet SE


Rocket Internet SE is a venture builder based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in incubating and investing in internet and technology companies globally, providing operational support and capital to entrepreneurs. Rocket Internet has a diverse portfolio, including significant investments in the transportation sector. Notably, they invested in Easy Taxi, a ride-hailing service that raised multiple funding rounds, including $10 million in Series C and $5 million in Series A, indicating their commitment to the mobility sector. Additionally, they invested in ClickBus, which raised $10 million in a venture round, further showcasing their interest in public transportation solutions. Overall, Rocket Internet SE plays a role in the transportation industry through its strategic investments in innovative mobility startups.


8. MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company


Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (MSC) is a logistics company specializing in shipping and transportation services, founded in 1970 and based in Geneva, Switzerland. With over 10,000 employees, MSC operates globally, providing tailored logistics solutions across various industries, including agriculture, automotive, and pharmaceuticals. In 2023, MSC made significant strides in the public transportation sector by acquiring a 50% stake in Renfe Mercancías, the Spanish national rail freight operator, through its logistics arm, Medlog, and railway operator, Medway. This acquisition, valued at approximately 200 million euros, highlights MSC's commitment to expanding its footprint in public transportation. Additionally, MSC has been involved in other strategic acquisitions, such as a 49% stake in Moby, a major European shipping company, and a 67% stake in Log-in, which enhances its operations in the cabotage market in Brazil. These transactions reflect MSC's broader strategy to integrate various transportation modalities, including rail and logistics, into its operations.


9. Bosch

  • Website: bosch.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Birenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
  • Founded year: 1886
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: bosch

Robert Bosch GmbH is a multinational engineering and technology company founded in 1886, headquartered in Birenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Bosch offers a diverse range of products and services across mobility, consumer goods, industrial technology, and energy solutions. The company is committed to sustainability and enhancing quality of life through its innovative technology solutions. In the context of public transportation, Bosch has made significant investments, including the acquisition of SPLT, which focuses on enterprise mobility solutions, and an investment in Routematic, a platform aimed at improving transportation logistics. Additionally, Bosch participated in a funding round for WeRide, a self-driving car startup, indicating their interest in advanced mobility solutions that could impact public transportation. These transactions highlight Bosch's strategic focus on enhancing mobility and transportation services, making them a relevant player in the public transportation investment landscape.


10. Mountain Partners


Mountain Partners is a venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in investment management, focusing on providing funding and operational support to startups and technology companies across Europe, Latin America, and Asia. With a team size of 11-50, Mountain Partners manages a diversified portfolio of VC funds aimed at empowering innovative businesses and facilitating their growth. Among their notable transactions, they invested in Urbvan, which raised $1.35 million in a seed round to enhance urban transportation solutions. They also participated in Busbud, a Montreal-based platform for intercity bus tickets that secured $11 million in financing, showcasing their commitment to improving public transportation access. Furthermore, their investment in TIER Mobility, which raised nearly $199 million in a Series D round, highlights their focus on modern mobility solutions, including electric scooters, which are integral to the public transportation ecosystem. These transactions reflect Mountain Partners' active engagement in the public transportation sector, making them a relevant investor in this field.


11. Project A

  • Website: project-a.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 13
  • LinkedIn: project-a-ventures

Project A is a venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2012. They specialize in early-stage tech investments and provide operational support for startups. Their services include consulting in technology and growth, access to a network of investors, and pre-seed investment opportunities. In 2024, Project A has made 13 investments, showcasing their active role in the startup ecosystem. Notably, they have participated in several funding rounds for VOI Technology, a Swedish electric scooter startup, contributing to its growth through Series A, B, and C funding rounds. This involvement highlights their interest in innovative transportation solutions. Additionally, they have invested in Vay, a company focused on launching a fleet in Hamburg, further emphasizing their engagement in the public transportation sector. Overall, Project A's investment strategy reflects a commitment to supporting tech-driven solutions in transportation.


12. Point Nine

  • Website: pointnine.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: point-nine-capital

Point Nine is a venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage companies, particularly in the SaaS, enterprise software, and B2B marketplace sectors. They provide funding at the seed stage and are committed to participating in subsequent funding rounds to help startups scale their operations. Notably, Point Nine has made significant investments in the public transportation sector, including GoOpti, a ride-sharing platform for European shuttle bus services, which raised €4.4 million in funding with Point Nine as an investor. They also invested in TIER Mobility, which raised $36 million in a Series A round, focusing on electric scooters and bikes, further contributing to sustainable urban mobility solutions. Additionally, their investment in OnTruck, a logistics platform, showcases their interest in transportation-related technologies. Overall, Point Nine's portfolio reflects a commitment to supporting innovative transportation solutions.


13. FlixBus

  • Website: flixbus.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: gobus-gmbh

FlixBus, founded in 2011 and based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is a corporate investor specializing in the transportation sector, particularly in bus travel services. The company has established a user-friendly platform for booking tickets and managing travel plans, catering to consumers seeking affordable and eco-friendly travel options. FlixBus has made significant strides in the public transportation industry through strategic acquisitions, including the purchase of Greyhound Lines for $78 million in October 2021, which expanded its reach in the North American market. In July 2016, FlixBus also acquired Megabus, further solidifying its position in the long-distance bus service market. Additionally, FlixBus is in exclusive negotiations to acquire Eurolines, aiming to strengthen its market position in France and enhance its European operations. These transactions highlight FlixBus's active role in the public transportation sector, making it a notable investor in this industry.



Public Transportation Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Mercedes-Benz AGStuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18831
Volkswagen Group Investor RelationsWolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany10001+19371
SiemensMunich, Bavaria, Germany10001+184711
HV CapitalFlensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany11-50200028
SpeedinvestVienna, Vienna, Austria51-200201145
Deutsche BankFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany10001+187032
Rocket Internet SEBerlin, Berlin, Germany201-50020070
MSC Mediterranean Shipping CompanyGeneva, Geneva, Switzerland10001+19704
BoschBirenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18865
Mountain PartnersZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-5020051
Project ABerlin, Berlin, Germany51-200201213
Point NineBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-50201116
FlixBusMunich, Bavaria, Germany501-100020110


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