The truck manufacturing industry in the DACH region, comprising Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, is characterized by a robust network of companies producing commercial vehicles ranging from heavy-duty trucks to specialty transporters. Major players include both established automotive giants and innovative startups focused on sustainability and advanced technology. The industry is rapidly evolving, particularly with the rise of electric and hybrid trucks that address environmental concerns. As supply chain demands shift, investments in automation and smart logistics are on the rise, positioning DACH as a pivotal hub for truck manufacturing innovation.


The investors featured in this list represent a mix of corporate giants, venture capital firms, and private equity players. Hailing from cities like Stuttgart, Munich, and Zurich, these investors vary in size from small firms to large corporations with over 10,000 employees. Most of them were founded between the late 19th century and early 21st century, indicating a rich history in investment. In 2024, these investors made notable deals, reflecting a strong commitment to the truck manufacturing sector and its future growth opportunities.


Top 16 Truck Manufacturing Investors in DACH


1. 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, Volkswagen Group operates through a multi-brand strategy, which includes brands like Scania, a prominent player in the truck manufacturing industry. In 2008, Volkswagen Group acquired Scania, enhancing its portfolio in the commercial vehicle sector. Additionally, Volkswagen has been active in the electric vehicle market, with initiatives like Scout Motors, which aims to establish an electric vehicle plant. Their strategic investments, including a 50% stake in Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Group, further demonstrate their commitment to expanding their automotive and truck manufacturing capabilities, particularly in emerging markets like China. Overall, Volkswagen Group is not only focused on passenger vehicles but also plays a significant role in the truck manufacturing industry through its acquisitions and investments.


2. 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 leading automobile manufacturer known for producing luxury vehicles and vans. The company has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and is recognized for its commitment to quality and performance. In addition to its core business of passenger vehicles, Mercedes-Benz AG has made strategic investments in the commercial vehicle sector. Notably, they invested in KAMAZ, a prominent truck manufacturer, in a post-IPO equity round in December 2008. Furthermore, their involvement with Proterra, which raised significant funds in 2018 and 2019, highlights their interest in electric and hybrid technologies that can be applied to commercial vehicles, including trucks. Their investment in Motor Coach Industries also reflects their engagement in the broader commercial vehicle market. These transactions demonstrate Mercedes-Benz AG's active role in the truck manufacturing industry, making them a relevant investor in this space.


3. 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 based in Birenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Founded in 1886, Bosch offers a diverse range of products and services across mobility, consumer goods, industrial technology, and energy solutions. As a corporate investor, Bosch has been actively involved in the automotive sector, making significant investments that enhance their capabilities in truck manufacturing. Notably, Bosch has invested in Nikola Motor Company, a key player in the electric truck market, and has acquired Evergrande hofer powertrain GmbH, which specializes in electric drive units, crucial for modern trucks. Furthermore, Bosch's acquisition of ZF Friedrichshafen AG's share in ZF Lenksysteme GmbH has strengthened their position in electric steering systems, vital for driver assistance and automated driving technologies in trucks. Bosch's commitment to sustainability and innovation positions them as a relevant investor in the truck manufacturing industry.


4. 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. Notably, Bayern Kapital has been involved in several transactions relevant to the truck manufacturing industry, including investments in Evum Motors, which designs and manufactures electric utility vehicles, and Driveblocks, a technology startup focused on fully autonomous driving of commercial vehicles. Additionally, they participated in the funding round for Fernride, a startup that is likely to impact logistics and transportation, further emphasizing their engagement in the truck manufacturing and related sectors.


5. Continental AG


Continental AG is a corporate investor based in Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany, specializing in automotive manufacturing and technology solutions. Founded with a focus on enhancing vehicle performance and safety, Continental AG has made significant strides in the automotive sector through various acquisitions. Notably, they acquired a 51% stake in Continental Matador Rubber s.r.o., a company that specializes in truck tires, which strengthens their position in the truck tire market. Additionally, their acquisition of Veyance Technologies included a commercial vehicle air springs business, further emphasizing their involvement in the truck manufacturing industry. Other acquisitions, such as Zhangjiagang Fugang Heli Electronics Co. and Hornschuch, while not directly related to trucks, showcase Continental's broader strategy to enhance their automotive component offerings. Overall, Continental AG is a key player in the automotive supply industry with a notable focus on truck-related products.


6. Knorr-Bremse AG

  • Website: knorr-bremse.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
  • Founded year: 1905
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: knorr-bremse

Knorr-Bremse AG is a leading manufacturer specializing in braking systems and safety-critical components for rail and commercial vehicles. Founded in 1905 and based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, the company has a global presence and is committed to innovation in the mobility industry. In recent years, Knorr-Bremse has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its expertise and product offerings. Notably, they acquired a majority stake in Cojali S.L., a company focused on connectivity and digitalization in the aftermarket segment, which is crucial for modern truck operations. Additionally, their acquisition of STE Schwingungstechnik GmbH, a manufacturer of vibration dampers, further emphasizes their role in improving truck components. These transactions highlight Knorr-Bremse's dedication to advancing technologies that enhance safety and efficiency in the commercial vehicle sector.


7. MAN Truck & Bus SE


MAN Truck & Bus SE, based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is a leading commercial vehicle manufacturer with a history dating back to 1758. The company specializes in the production of trucks, buses, and vans, and offers a range of services including maintenance, repair, and digital fleet management solutions. Their customer base primarily consists of businesses and organizations in logistics, transportation, and construction, who rely on MAN's vehicles and services to enhance operational efficiency. Notably, MAN Truck & Bus SE has made significant investments in the truck manufacturing sector, including the acquisition of VW Truck & Bus from Volkswagen AG for approximately $1.53 billion, which positioned them as a leader in the Brazilian commercial vehicle market. Additionally, they acquired a 25% stake in Chinese OEM Sinotruk, further expanding their global reach. In 2016, they invested in Fr8 Revolution, a logistics technology company, showcasing their interest in innovative solutions within the transportation industry.


8. Steadfast Capital GmbH


Steadfast Capital GmbH is a private equity firm based in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, founded in 2001. The firm specializes in management buy-outs and growth investments for medium-sized enterprises, providing tailored financial solutions and strategic support to help businesses navigate transitions and expand into new markets, primarily in Germany and neighboring countries. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Kautex Maschinenbau on March 22, 2007, which is involved in manufacturing components for the automotive sector, including trucks. Additionally, Steadfast Capital has acquired other companies such as Kempf, Reutter GmbH, Cetelon, and UHB Kunststofftechnik, further demonstrating its active role in various industrial sectors. These transactions highlight Steadfast Capital's capability to invest in companies that may have relevance to the truck manufacturing industry.


9. Palfinger Ag

  • Website: palfinger.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bergheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1932
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: palfinger

Palfinger AG is a corporate investor based in Bergheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, specializing in the manufacturing of cranes and lifting equipment. Founded in 1932, the company has grown to employ over 10,000 people and serves various sectors, including construction, mining, and municipal services. Notably, Palfinger has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its market position, including the acquisition of Equipment Technology LLC (ETI) in 2010, which specializes in truck-mounted aerial lifts and service cranes, allowing Palfinger to enter the North American aerial market. Additionally, they acquired Ratcliff-Palfinger, a leader in the UK tail lift market, further solidifying their presence in the truck-related equipment sector. Other acquisitions, such as Bergen Group Dreggen and Ned-Deck Marine B.V., while not directly related to truck manufacturing, showcase Palfinger's strategy of expanding its product range and operational capabilities.


10. 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. The company specializes in automotive components and mobility solutions, offering a wide range of products including rolling bearings and e-mobility solutions. Schaeffler serves automotive manufacturers and industrial clients, focusing on innovation and engineering to enhance mobility and address future challenges in transportation. Notably, Schaeffler has made several strategic acquisitions, such as FAG Kugelfischer in 2001, Compact Dynamics in 2017, and Schaeffler Friction Products in 2008, which strengthen their position in the automotive supply chain. Their recent investment in Agility Robotics in 2024 indicates a continued interest in advancing mobility technologies, which could have implications for the truck manufacturing sector.


11. DB Schenker

  • Website: dbschenker.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1872
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: dbschenker

DB Schenker is a leading logistics company based in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, founded in 1872. With over 10,000 employees, they provide comprehensive supply chain management solutions, including transport services across land, air, and sea. In recent years, DB Schenker has made strategic acquisitions to enhance their operations in the trucking sector. Notably, they acquired USA Truck for $435 million in September 2022, integrating 2,100 employees and a fleet of 1,900 trucks into their operations. This acquisition reflects their commitment to expanding their logistics capabilities in the trucking industry. Additionally, they have acquired Spanish transport companies, Grupo Loserco and Transportes Santos Campos, to strengthen their presence in the Iberian market. These transactions highlight DB Schenker's active role in the trucking industry, making them a relevant investor in this sector.


12. Verve Ventures

  • Website: verve.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: investiere-venture-capital

Verve Ventures is a Zurich-based venture capital firm founded in 2010, specializing in deep tech investments across Europe. The firm provides funding and strategic support to science and technology startups, focusing on sectors such as climate tech, industrial technology, and health & bio. Notably, Verve Ventures has participated in several transactions that align with the transportation and logistics sectors, including a Series A investment in Otoqi, a B2B mobility services provider, which raised $7.1M in 2021, and a Series A investment in Trusk, which raised approximately $7.9M in 2019. These investments highlight Verve Ventures' engagement in the mobility space, which is closely related to truck manufacturing and logistics.


13. Seedstars

  • Website: seedstars.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Carouge, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: seedstars

Seedstars is a venture capital firm based in Carouge, Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 2012. The firm focuses on supporting startups and entrepreneurs in emerging markets through various programs, including acceleration and growth initiatives, investment readiness, and the operation of entrepreneurship hubs. Seedstars collaborates with governments, investors, and development agencies to foster entrepreneurial ecosystems and drive social and economic development. Notably, Seedstars has made significant investments in the transportation sector, including a $4 million Series A investment in Truck Lagbe, a logistics platform that connects truck owners with businesses needing transportation services. Additionally, they participated in an earlier seed round for Truck Lagbe, further demonstrating their commitment to the truck and logistics industry. Their investment in Chargel, a company that may also relate to transportation solutions, further emphasizes their interest in sectors that could intersect with truck manufacturing.


14. Momenta

  • Website: momenta.one
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Engelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: momentapartners

Momenta is a venture capital firm based in Engelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland, founded in 2012. The firm specializes in industrial impact and digital transformation, providing strategic investments and advisory services to Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups across various sectors, including energy, manufacturing, smart spaces, and supply chain. In 2024, Momenta has been involved in several transactions, including a significant investment in Agtonomy, a company focused on advanced autonomous and AI solutions for agriculture, which raised $22.5 million in Series A funding. This investment highlights Momenta's commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and driving sustainability, which are critical in the manufacturing sector. Although their recent transactions do not explicitly mention truck manufacturing, their expertise in critical industries and partnerships with major players in the manufacturing space suggest a potential alignment with the truck manufacturing industry.


15. Deutz Ag

  • Website: deutz.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Herten, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1864
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: deutzofficial

DEUTZ AG, founded in 1864 and based in Herten, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a prominent engine manufacturer specializing in advanced drive systems and engine technology. The company offers a diverse range of products, including diesel, hydrogen, and electric engines, catering to various sectors such as agriculture, construction, and transportation. In recent years, DEUTZ AG has made significant investments to enhance its position in the transportation industry. Notably, they acquired an 11.91% stake in Blue World Technologies, a company focused on methanol fuel cell technology, which is relevant for developing alternative powertrains in trucks. Furthermore, DEUTZ AG's acquisition of Urban Mobility Systems and their agreement to acquire Blue Star Power Systems, which is expected to generate substantial revenue, reflect their commitment to expanding their influence in the transportation sector. These strategic moves underscore DEUTZ AG's role as a key player in providing engine solutions for truck manufacturing.


16. Siemens Financial Services


Siemens Financial Services, founded in 1997 and based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is a corporate investor that specializes in providing innovative financial solutions to support technological advancements across various sectors, including industry, infrastructure, mobility, and healthcare. They have been actively involved in several significant transactions that highlight their commitment to supporting the transition to sustainable transportation. Notably, they participated in a Series A financing round for 7 Gen, which aims to accelerate the deployment of electric trucks and buses. This investment underscores their strategic interest in the truck manufacturing sector, particularly in the context of electric vehicles. Additionally, Siemens Financial Services has invested in companies like Morrow Batteries and KORE Power, which are focused on battery production, a critical component for electric trucks. Their involvement in these sectors positions them as a relevant player in the truck manufacturing landscape, especially as the industry shifts towards electrification and sustainability.



Truck Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Volkswagen Group Investor RelationsWolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany10001+19371
Mercedes-Benz AGStuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18831
BoschBirenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18865
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
Continental AGHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-501
Knorr-Bremse AGFlensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany10001+19052
MAN Truck & Bus SEMunich, Bavaria, Germany10001+17580
Steadfast Capital GmbHFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany11-5020010
Palfinger AgBergheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+19320
SchaefflerHerzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany10001+19462
DB SchenkerEssen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+18721
Verve VenturesZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-50201025
SeedstarsCarouge, Geneva, Switzerland201-50020126
MomentaEngelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland11-5020127
Deutz AgHerten, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany1001-500018644
Siemens Financial ServicesMunich, Bavaria, Germany1001-5000199715


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