The auto parts manufacturing industry in DACH is pivotal to the automotive sector, covering everything from simple components to advanced systems crucial for vehicle functionality. This includes tier one and tier two suppliers who specialize in manufacturing, engineering, and technological solutions. Driving forces include a push towards electric vehicle production and increased automation. Significant trends show a growing emphasis on sustainability and connectivity, shaped by innovations like lightweight materials and smart technologies. The sector is expected to continue evolving with a strong focus on digitization, fostering new opportunities for growth and collaboration among manufacturers.


The investors featured in this article comprise a mix of corporate giants and private equity firms, primarily headquartered in Germany and Switzerland. They range in size, with several employing over 10,000 professionals. Founded between 1820 and 2018, these investors are notable for their active engagement, with some completing multiple transactions in 2024. Key players include Siemens with 11 investments and Bayern Kapital, which made an impressive 27 deals. Their focus spans traditional manufacturing and innovative startups, highlighting the dynamic nature of investment in the DACH region.


Top 18 Auto Parts Manufacturing Investors in DACH


1. 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 and acquisitions that enhance its capabilities in the automotive sector. Notably, the acquisition of COMSA Computer und Software GmbH in December 2018 allowed Siemens to improve its offerings in automotive electrical systems through advanced software for wire harness engineering. Furthermore, Siemens' investment in WiTricity, a startup focused on wireless EV charging, demonstrates its commitment to innovation in the electric vehicle market. These transactions highlight Siemens' active role in the automotive industry, particularly in areas that intersect with auto parts manufacturing.


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 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. The company is particularly focused on the automotive sector, providing innovative technology solutions to automotive manufacturers. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Unipoint Group, a significant player in automotive components, and Accu Industries Inc., which bolstered Bosch's automotive aftermarket division. These strategic acquisitions highlight Bosch's commitment to enhancing its automotive offerings and its active role in the auto parts manufacturing industry.


3. 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 been involved in several significant transactions, including the acquisition of Felss Group, a leader in the cold forming of hollow parts, which generated revenues of approximately EUR 125 million in 2016. This acquisition highlights Capvis's strategic interest in the auto parts manufacturing industry. Additionally, Capvis has acquired Polytec Holding and sia Abrasives Holding, further showcasing its diverse investment portfolio, although these companies are not directly related to auto parts manufacturing.


4. Volkswagen Group Investor Relations


Volkswagen Group Investor Relations is a corporate investor based in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany, founded in 1937. As a leading automotive manufacturer, Volkswagen Group operates through a multi-brand strategy, providing integrated solutions that encompass electric vehicles and renewable energy services. In recent years, they have made significant acquisitions to bolster their position in the automotive sector. Notably, they acquired ItalDesign in May 2020, enhancing their design and engineering capabilities, which are crucial for auto parts development. Additionally, their acquisition of BlackBerry's European R&D center in 2014 aimed to improve vehicle connectivity, a key area in modern automotive technology. These transactions reflect Volkswagen's commitment to advancing their automotive offerings, including components and systems that are essential in the auto parts manufacturing industry.


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. They provide startups with capital, strategic guidance, and access to a vast network of industry connections to help them scale and navigate complex business challenges. Notably, Porsche Ventures has invested in Rimac Group, a Croatian electric hypercar manufacturer, acquiring a 10% stake to leverage their electric powertrain technology for Porsche's future models. This strategic investment highlights their commitment to advancing automotive technology, particularly in the electric vehicle space. Additionally, they have participated in various funding rounds for companies like INTAMSYS, which may have applications in manufacturing processes relevant to the automotive industry.


6. 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 has over 55 years of experience in providing capital and advisory services to enhance the growth potential of its portfolio companies. While their primary focus spans sectors such as telecommunications, IT services, software, and healthcare, they have also made significant investments in the auto parts manufacturing industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Karl Eugen Fischer Group, a developer and manufacturer of cutting machines for the tyre industry, and FRIMO Group, which is involved in manufacturing processes relevant to automotive production. These investments highlight Deutsche Beteiligungs AG's commitment to supporting growth in the auto parts sector, alongside their broader investment strategy.


7. 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 auto parts manufacturing sector, including the acquisition of Köhler Automobiltechnik GmbH in 2006, which specializes in automotive technology, and RADO Gummi in 2005, a manufacturer of rubber products for the automotive industry. 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 acquired a significant minority interest in PEAK Technology GmbH, further demonstrating their active engagement in sectors related to automotive technology and manufacturing.


8. 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 with a range of products, including advanced driver-assistance systems and electrical distribution systems. The company has been active in the auto parts manufacturing context, evidenced by its significant acquisitions such as Intercable Automotive Solutions for EUR595 million, aimed at enhancing vehicle architectural systems. Other notable transactions include the acquisition of Antaya Technologies for $151 million, which likely contributes to their electrical connectivity solutions, and Movimento Group for $40 million, which focuses on software solutions for connected vehicles. Additionally, Aptiv's investment in TTTech Auto, a provider of safety software for autonomous vehicles, further demonstrates its commitment to advancing automotive technology. These transactions highlight Aptiv's strategic focus on enhancing the automotive industry's transition to software-defined vehicles, making it a relevant player in the auto parts manufacturing sector.


9. 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 a corporate investor that is part of BASF, a leading chemical manufacturer. The firm focuses on innovation and sustainability, providing a wide range of products and solutions across various industries, including automotive, construction, and agriculture. Notably, BASF Venture Capital has invested in companies like Essentium, a 3D printing firm that raised $22 million in a Series A round, showcasing their interest in advanced manufacturing technologies that can benefit the automotive sector. Additionally, their investment in Applied Nano Surfaces and other technology-driven firms reflects their strategy to enhance product performance and address environmental challenges, which are critical in the automotive industry.


10. Continental AG


Continental AG is a leading automotive manufacturer and technology provider based in Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany. The company specializes in tires and automotive components, offering innovative solutions that enhance vehicle performance and safety. Continental AG has been actively expanding its portfolio through strategic acquisitions in the auto parts manufacturing sector. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Siemens VDO Automotive AG for €11.4 billion, which strengthened their position in the automotive supply industry. In December 2023, they announced plans to acquire Zhangjiagang Fugang Heli Electronics Co., an auto parts maker in China, further emphasizing their commitment to the auto parts sector. Additionally, their acquisition of Veyance Technologies for $1.8 billion and Hornschuch, a company specializing in automotive interiors, showcases their diverse interests within the automotive components market. These transactions highlight Continental AG's strategic focus on enhancing their capabilities in the auto parts manufacturing industry.


11. Trumpf

  • Website: trumpf.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ditzingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: trumpf-gmbh-co-kg

Trumpf SE + Co. KG is a corporate investor based in Ditzingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, specializing in advanced machine tools and laser technology. Founded in 2016, Trumpf has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and has made significant investments in innovative solutions that enhance manufacturing processes across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and electronics. Notably, Trumpf has participated in funding rounds for 3YOURMIND, a 3D printing software startup that focuses on sectors such as automotive, indicating their commitment to supporting advancements in this field. In addition, Trumpf's acquisition of EHT Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH in 2015 further demonstrates their strategic interest in mechanical engineering, which is closely related to auto parts manufacturing. Through these transactions, Trumpf is positioned as a relevant player in the auto parts manufacturing investment landscape.


12. 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. Bayern Kapital supports its 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 made significant investments in the automotive industry, including a Series A investment in DeepDrive, a company developing revolutionary drive units for electric vehicles, which has partnerships with top automakers. They also invested in Easy2Parts, a company focused on automotive solutions, and Evum Motors, which designs and manufactures electric utility vehicles. These transactions demonstrate Bayern Kapital's active role in the auto parts manufacturing sector, particularly in the context of electric vehicle technology and innovation.


13. 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. Notably, Steadfast Capital has been involved in several significant acquisitions in the auto parts manufacturing sector, including:1. **FEP Fahrzeugelektrik Pirna** - Acquired on December 1, 2006, this company specializes in vehicle electrical systems, highlighting Steadfast's commitment to the automotive sector.2. **Reutter GmbH** - Acquired on August 31, 2017, Reutter is known for producing automotive components, further solidifying Steadfast's focus on the auto parts industry.3. **UHB Kunststofftechnik** - Acquired on June 10, 2019, this company manufactures plastic components for various applications, including automotive parts.4. **Kautex Maschinenbau** - Acquired on March 22, 2007, Kautex is involved in the production of blow-molded plastic parts for the automotive industry, showcasing Steadfast's investment in essential auto parts manufacturing technologies.These transactions reflect Steadfast Capital's active role in the auto parts manufacturing industry, making them a relevant investor in this space.


14. 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 is a multinational chemical manufacturer based in Ludwigshafen, Germany, founded in 1865. The company provides a wide range of products and solutions across various industries, including agriculture, automotive, and construction. BASF focuses on innovation and sustainability, helping its customers meet environmental challenges and improve operational efficiency. Notably, BASF has made significant investments in the automotive sector, including the acquisition of Guilin REEcat Catalyst Co., Ltd, a motorcycle emissions-control catalyst manufacturer, which highlights their commitment to the auto parts industry. Additionally, their acquisition of Chemetall, a global surface treatment business, further demonstrates their strategic interest in enhancing automotive manufacturing processes. These transactions reflect BASF's active role in the automotive supply chain, particularly in areas that support emissions control and surface treatment, which are critical for modern auto parts manufacturing.


15. 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 leading automotive component manufacturer based in Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1946. The company specializes in mobility solutions, offering a diverse range of products including rolling bearings and e-mobility solutions, primarily serving automotive manufacturers and industrial clients. Schaeffler is committed to innovation and engineering to enhance mobility and address future challenges in transportation. Notable transactions include the acquisition of FAG Kugelfischer in 2001, Schaeffler Friction Products in 2008, Compact Dynamics in 2017, and Elmotec Statomat in 2018, all of which strengthen their position in the auto parts manufacturing sector. Additionally, their investment in PlugVan in 2021 highlights their interest in innovative solutions within the automotive space.


16. Wieland Group

  • Website: wieland.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ulm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
  • Founded year: 1820
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: wielandgroup

Wieland Group is a corporate investor based in Ulm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, with a history dating back to 1820. The company specializes in manufacturing semi-finished products from copper and copper alloys, serving various industries, including automotive and aerospace. In 2022, Wieland Group acquired Breuckmann eMobility, enhancing their technology portfolio in e-mobility components, which is increasingly relevant in the automotive sector. In 2023, they further expanded their capabilities by acquiring National Bronze Manufacturing and Heyco Metals, both of which contribute to their manufacturing capabilities in precision components. Additionally, their acquisition of Morgan Bronze Products in 2024 aims to strengthen their position in North America, particularly in growth markets that include automotive applications. These strategic acquisitions reflect Wieland's commitment to innovation and sustainability in their product offerings, making them a significant player in the auto parts manufacturing landscape.


17. Partners Group

  • Website: partnersgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: partners-group

Partners Group Holding AG is an investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and is recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability. Among their notable transactions, Partners Group acquired Dynacast International, a key player in die-cast manufacturing, for USD 1.1 billion in 2015, which is significant for the auto parts sector. In 2018, they also acquired Megadyne and Ammeraal Beltech, companies involved in manufacturing components that can be utilized in various industrial applications, including automotive. These transactions highlight Partners Group's active role in sectors that intersect with auto parts manufacturing.


18. Deutsche Private Equity (DPE)


Deutsche Private Equity (DPE) is a private equity firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in providing growth capital to medium-sized enterprises primarily in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. DPE focuses on fostering growth and creating sustainable corporate values for its portfolio companies. Notably, DPE has been involved in several significant transactions in the auto parts manufacturing context, including the acquisition of Westfalia-Automotive, a German towbar device manufacturer, in January 2011. This acquisition highlights DPE's commitment to the auto parts sector. Additionally, DPE acquired Fischer Surface Technologies in November 2016 and Bücker & Essing in February 2015, further demonstrating their active role in supporting companies that may have ties to the automotive industry. Their investment strategy emphasizes long-term success and operational expansion, making them a relevant player in the auto parts manufacturing landscape.



Auto Parts Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
SiemensMunich, Bavaria, Germany10001+184711
BoschBirenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18865
Capvis AGBaar, Zug, Switzerland11-5019900
Volkswagen Group Investor RelationsWolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany10001+19371
Porsche VenturesStuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany11-5020189
Deutsche Beteiligungs AGFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany51-20019652
Hannover FinanzHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-5019792
AptivSchaffhausen, Schaffhausen, Switzerland10001+20082
BASF Venture CapitalLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+20013
Continental AGHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-501
TrumpfDitzingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+20162
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
Steadfast Capital GmbHFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany11-5020010
BasfLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+18651
SchaefflerHerzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany10001+19462
Wieland GroupUlm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18203
Partners GroupBaar, Zug, Switzerland1001-5000199619
Deutsche Private Equity (DPE)Munich, Bavaria, Germany51-20020072


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