The automotive manufacturing industry in the DACH region—Germany, Austria, and Switzerland—thrives as a robust hub of innovation and engineering prowess. Home to iconic brands and suppliers, the industry includes manufacturers like Volkswagen, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz, alongside a network of component producers. With rising focus on electrification and sustainability, companies are increasingly investing in electric vehicles and advanced technologies. Driving this transformation are collaborations between traditional automotive players and tech startups. Interesting trends include a strong push for autonomous driving solutions and lightweight materials, indicating that the industry is evolving rapidly to meet modern mobility demands.


The list features a mix of investors primarily from the corporate and private equity sectors, with headquarters spread across Germany and Switzerland. Most of the investors rank as large corporations, employing over 10,000 people. Founded from the late 1800s to the 2000s, these firms show considerable dynamism with varying engagement levels, reflected in their deal counts, ranging from one to 27 investments in 2024. This patchwork of investment approaches illustrates how firms are reinforcing their stakes in the transformational automotive landscape.


Top 15 Automotive Manufacturing Investors in DACH


1. Volkswagen Group Investor Relations


Volkswagen Group Investor Relations is a corporate investor based in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany, and was founded in 1937. As a leading automotive manufacturer, Volkswagen Group not only produces a wide range of vehicles but also offers energy solutions, including electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. Their commitment to sustainability is evident through products like the Elli Charger 2. The company operates through a multi-brand strategy, which includes notable brands such as Audi and Scout Motors. Recent transactions highlight their active role in the automotive sector, including the acquisition of ItalDesign to enhance design capabilities, and a strategic partnership with Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Group to strengthen their foothold in the Chinese market. Additionally, Volkswagen's investment in Scout Motors aims to establish a significant electric vehicle manufacturing presence in the U.S., further solidifying their position in the evolving automotive landscape.


2. 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. With over 10,000 employees, Bosch operates across various sectors, including mobility solutions, consumer goods, industrial technology, and energy solutions. The company is committed to sustainability and enhancing quality of life through innovative technology solutions. In the automotive sector, Bosch has made several strategic acquisitions to strengthen its market position. Notably, they acquired Evergrande hofer powertrain GmbH, focusing on electric drive units, and eesy-ic GmbH, which specializes in application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) for automotive applications. Additionally, Bosch's acquisition of the Unipoint Group, a major manufacturer of automotive components, highlights their active involvement in the automotive manufacturing industry. These transactions underscore Bosch's commitment to advancing automotive technology and solutions.


3. 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 is a prominent automobile manufacturer based in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, founded in 1883. The company specializes in producing luxury vehicles and vans, offering a diverse range of cars equipped with advanced technology and features tailored for both individual consumers and businesses. Their operations encompass vehicle manufacturing and retail, with a strong emphasis on quality and performance. Notably, Mercedes-Benz AG has been involved in significant transactions within the automotive sector, including investments in Tesla, where they participated in multiple funding rounds totaling over $783 million, aimed at supporting Tesla's retail expansion. Additionally, they have invested in Aston Martin, a renowned luxury car manufacturer, further solidifying their position and influence in the automotive industry. These transactions reflect Mercedes-Benz AG's strategic focus on innovation and collaboration within the automotive manufacturing space.


4. 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 is a leading technology conglomerate based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, specializing in industrial automation, energy solutions, rail transport, and health technology. Founded in 1847, Siemens operates globally with approximately 320,000 employees and generates significant revenue. In recent years, Siemens has made strategic investments in the automotive sector, particularly in electric vehicle technologies. Notably, they led a funding round for WiTricity, investing $25 million to support the commercialization of wireless charging solutions for electric vehicles. Additionally, Siemens is involved with Morrow Batteries, which is focused on developing sustainable battery technologies essential for the EV market. These investments highlight Siemens' commitment to enhancing efficiency and sustainability in the automotive industry, making them a relevant investor in this space.


5. Porsche Ventures

  • Website: porsche.ventures
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 9
  • LinkedIn: porsche-ventures

Porsche Ventures is a corporate venture capital firm based in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in early-stage investments across mobility, industrial technology, and sustainability sectors. Porsche Ventures supports startups by providing capital, strategic guidance, and access to a vast network of industry connections, helping them scale and navigate complex business challenges. Notably, Porsche Ventures has made significant investments in the automotive sector, including a strategic acquisition of a 10% stake in Rimac Group, a Croatian electric hypercar manufacturer, to leverage their electric powertrain technology for future Porsche models. Additionally, they are set to acquire a 50% stake in Red Bull Racing Company, which highlights their commitment to innovation in automotive performance and motorsports. Their investment in WayRay, a company focused on advanced automotive technologies, further emphasizes their active role in shaping the future of the automotive industry.


6. Capvis AG

  • Website: capvis.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1990
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: capvis

Capvis AG is a private equity firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, founded in 1990. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including healthcare and industrial technology. Capvis partners with institutional investors, such as pension funds, to provide long-term capital and strategic growth opportunities. The firm focuses on enhancing the market position of its portfolio companies through effective management and consulting. Notably, Capvis has made significant investments in companies like Felss Group, a technology leader in cold forming of hollow parts, which is relevant to automotive manufacturing. Additionally, Capvis has acquired Polytec Holding and sia Abrasives Holding, both of which have connections to manufacturing processes that could be applicable in the automotive sector. These transactions highlight Capvis's engagement in industries that intersect with automotive manufacturing, further supporting its inclusion in the list of automotive manufacturing investors.


7. Aptiv

  • Website: aptiv.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Schaffhausen, Schaffhausen, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2008
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: aptiv

Aptiv PLC is an automotive technology company based in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, specializing in advanced solutions for vehicle safety, connectivity, and electrification. Founded in 2008, Aptiv serves automotive manufacturers and OEMs by providing products such as advanced driver-assistance systems, electrical distribution systems, and software development services. In 2022, Aptiv acquired an 85% equity stake in Intercable Automotive Solutions for EUR595 million, aiming to strengthen its position in vehicle architectural systems. Additionally, Aptiv has invested significantly in companies like TTTech Auto, contributing $228 million to support safety software for autonomous vehicles, further showcasing its active role in the automotive manufacturing industry. Aptiv's global operations leverage its expertise to enhance the industry's transition to software-defined vehicles.


8. Bayern Kapital

  • Website: bayernkapital.de
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Landshut, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 27
  • LinkedIn: bayern-kapital-gmbh

Bayern Kapital is a venture capital firm based in Landshut, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1995. The firm specializes in providing investment and growth capital to innovative high-tech startups and scale-ups in Bavaria. They support their clients with financial resources and access to a network of industry experts, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and development in various sectors, including life sciences and software. Notably, Bayern Kapital has been involved in several relevant transactions in the automotive manufacturing context, such as their investments in DeepDrive, which raised significant funding for developing advanced drive units for electric vehicles, and Evum Motors, a manufacturer of electric utility vehicles. These investments highlight Bayern Kapital's commitment to fostering innovation within the automotive sector, particularly in the realm of electric mobility.


9. Deutsche Beteiligungs AG

  • Website: dbag.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1965
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-beteiligungs-ag

Deutsche Beteiligungs AG is a private equity firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, specializing in investments in mid-sized companies. Founded in 1965, the firm focuses on providing capital and advisory services to enhance the growth potential of its portfolio companies across various sectors, including telecommunications, IT services, software, and healthcare. Notably, Deutsche Beteiligungs AG has made significant investments in the automotive manufacturing context, acquiring companies such as Formel D GmbH, which provides services to the automotive industry, and Karl Eugen Fischer Group, a developer and manufacturer of cutting machines for the tire industry. Additionally, their acquisition of FRIMO Group, which supports automotive production processes, further emphasizes their engagement in the automotive sector. With over 55 years of experience, Deutsche Beteiligungs AG operates a successful fund advisory business, demonstrating a robust capability to drive growth in its portfolio companies.


10. Hannover Finanz

  • Website: hannoverfinanz.de
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany
  • Founded year: 1979
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: hannoverfinanz

Hannover Finanz is a private equity firm based in Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany, founded in 1979. The firm specializes in providing equity capital to medium-sized family businesses in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, focusing on sustainable growth through strategic investments and consulting services. Hannover Finanz has been involved in several notable transactions in the automotive manufacturing sector, including the acquisition of Köhler Automobiltechnik GmbH in 2006, which specializes in automotive technology, and RADO Gummi in 2005, a company that produces rubber products for various industries, including automotive. Additionally, they acquired Hubert Schlieckmann GmbH in 2008 and Koller-Gruppe in 2015, both of which have connections to the automotive supply chain. In 2024, they also invested in PEAK Technology GmbH, which, while not exclusively automotive, may have applications in the automotive sector. This diverse portfolio demonstrates Hannover Finanz's commitment to supporting growth in the automotive manufacturing industry while also engaging in other sectors.


11. eCAPITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL PARTNERS


eCAPITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL PARTNERS is a venture capital firm founded in 1999, based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The firm specializes in investing in technology companies across various sectors, including cleantech, software, and cybersecurity. eCAPITAL provides early to growth stage funding and strategic support to startups, helping them navigate challenges and achieve growth. Notably, they have made significant investments in companies relevant to the automotive sector, such as videantis, which focuses on embedded vision and autonomous driving technologies. This investment highlights eCAPITAL's commitment to supporting innovations that enhance automotive manufacturing and technology. Other investments include 4JET, eZelleron, and INMATEC Technologies, although these are less directly related to automotive manufacturing. Overall, eCAPITAL operates primarily in Germany but is open to investments beyond borders, indicating a broad investment strategy.


12. Basf

  • Website: basf.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
  • Founded year: 1865
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: basf

BASF SE, founded in 1865 and headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is a leading multinational chemical manufacturer with a workforce of over 10,000 employees. The company offers a diverse range of products and solutions across multiple industries, including agriculture, automotive, and construction. BASF is committed to innovation and sustainability, helping its customers address environmental challenges and enhance operational efficiency. Notably, BASF has made significant investments in the automotive sector, such as the acquisition of Guilin REEcat Catalyst Co., Ltd, a manufacturer of motorcycle emissions-control catalysts, and Chemetall GmbH, a global surface treatment business. These strategic acquisitions highlight BASF's focus on enhancing its capabilities in the automotive industry, particularly in areas related to emissions control and surface treatment, which are critical for automotive manufacturing.


13. BASF Venture Capital

  • Website: basf.de
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: basf

BASF Venture Capital, founded in 2001 and based in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is the corporate venture capital arm of BASF, a leading chemical manufacturer. The firm focuses on investing in innovative startups across various industries, including automotive, construction, and agriculture. BASF's commitment to sustainability and innovation is reflected in its investment strategy, which aims to enhance product performance while addressing environmental challenges. Notable transactions include investments in Group14 Technologies, a battery startup that develops nanomaterials for improved battery performance, and Essentium, a 3D printing firm that collaborates with BASF to advance technologies in additive manufacturing. These investments highlight BASF Venture Capital's strategic interest in automotive-related innovations, particularly in the context of electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing processes.


14. Schaeffler

  • Website: schaeffler.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1946
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: schaeffler

Schaeffler is a corporate investor based in Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1946. As a leading automotive component manufacturer, Schaeffler specializes in mobility solutions, offering a wide range of products including rolling bearings and e-mobility solutions. The company primarily serves automotive manufacturers and industrial clients, focusing on innovation and engineering to enhance mobility and address future challenges in transportation. Schaeffler has been actively involved in the automotive sector through various acquisitions, such as FAG Kugelfischer in 2001, Schaeffler Friction Products in 2008, and Compact Dynamics in 2017, all of which strengthen its position in the automotive manufacturing landscape. Additionally, their acquisition of Xtronic GmbH in 2019, which specializes in automation technology, further demonstrates their commitment to advancing automotive technologies. Overall, Schaeffler's strategic investments and focus on automotive components make it a significant player in the automotive manufacturing industry.


15. AM Ventures


AM Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Starnberg, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investments in additive manufacturing technologies, particularly in the industrial 3D printing sector. They provide funding and strategic guidance to startups and entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and growth in this rapidly evolving industry. Notably, AM Ventures has invested in companies like Fortius Metals, which raised $2 million in 2024 to scale manufacturing capacity, and Conflux Technology, an Australian metal additive manufacturing innovator that raised AUD $8.5 million in 2021. These investments highlight AM Ventures' commitment to supporting technologies that can enhance manufacturing processes, including those applicable to the automotive sector.



Automotive Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Volkswagen Group Investor RelationsWolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany10001+19371
BoschBirenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18865
Mercedes-Benz AGStuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18831
SiemensMunich, Bavaria, Germany10001+184711
Porsche VenturesStuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany11-5020189
Capvis AGBaar, Zug, Switzerland11-5019900
AptivSchaffhausen, Schaffhausen, Switzerland10001+20082
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
Deutsche Beteiligungs AGFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany51-20019652
Hannover FinanzHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-5019792
eCAPITAL ENTREPRENEURIAL PARTNERSNeunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany11-5019992
BasfLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+18651
BASF Venture CapitalLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+20013
SchaefflerHerzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany10001+19462
AM VenturesStarnberg, Bavaria, Germany1-1020153


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