The automotive parts manufacturing industry in the DACH region is critical for producing components essential for vehicle functionality and safety. Companies range from giants like Bosch and Schaeffler to smaller niche suppliers, and they offer everything from electronic components to structural parts. With the shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles, the industry is rapidly evolving. Innovations in materials and production processes are becoming priorities, paving the way for a greener future. Having a strong emphasis on R&D, businesses in DACH are striving to enhance efficiency and meet the demands of an increasingly tech-savvy market.


This list presents a mix of corporate and private equity investors based in DACH, specializing in automotive parts manufacturing. Companies range from multinationals like Bosch to venture firms such as Bayern Kapital, operating from key locations in Germany and Switzerland. Founded between 1847 and 2018, the listed investors vary in size, with many employing thousands. In 2024, these investors contributed to 69 notable transactions, reflecting their commitment to advancing the automotive sector in response to changing technologies and market dynamics.


Top 18 Automotive Parts Manufacturing Investors in DACH


1. 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 eesy-ic GmbH, which enhances Bosch's semiconductor capabilities for automotive applications. Additionally, Bosch's acquisition of Evergrande hofer powertrain GmbH's business operations reflects its commitment to advancing electric drive technology. These strategic investments underscore Bosch's role as a key player in the automotive parts manufacturing industry, aligning with its mission to enhance quality of life through sustainable and innovative products.


2. 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 to enhance efficiency and sustainability across various sectors. In recent years, Siemens has made strategic investments that align with the automotive industry, such as their significant investment in WiTricity, a Massachusetts-based startup focused on wireless charging for electric vehicles, where they led a funding round with a $25 million investment. This investment aims to accelerate the production and commercialization of wireless charging technology, which is crucial for the future of electric vehicles. Additionally, Siemens has been involved in other sectors, but their engagement in technologies that support electric vehicles positions them as a relevant investor in the automotive parts manufacturing context.


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 relevant to the automotive parts manufacturing industry, including the acquisition of Felss Group in 2017, a leader in cold forming technology for hollow parts, which generated revenues of approximately EUR 125 million in 2016. This acquisition aligns with Capvis's strategy to support growth and internationalization in sectors related to automotive manufacturing. Additionally, Capvis has acquired companies like Polytec Holding and Komax, which may also have ties to automotive applications, further showcasing their involvement in the automotive parts manufacturing landscape.


4. 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 invested in Rimac Group, acquiring a 10% stake in the Croatian electric hypercar manufacturer, which focuses on electric powertrain technology. This investment is particularly relevant as it aims to leverage Rimac's technology for Porsche's future models, highlighting their commitment to innovation in automotive parts. Additionally, their involvement in WayRay, a startup focused on augmented reality for automotive applications, further emphasizes their interest in technologies that can enhance automotive manufacturing and design.


5. 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 not only produces vehicles but also offers energy solutions, including electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. Their recent transactions highlight their strategic focus on enhancing automotive technology and manufacturing capabilities. For instance, the acquisition of ItalDesign in May 2020 strengthens their design and engineering capabilities, while the acquisition of BlackBerry's European R&D center in 2014 aims to bolster their vehicle connectivity technology. These moves reflect Volkswagen's commitment to advancing automotive parts manufacturing and integrating innovative solutions into their product offerings.


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, founded in 1965. The firm specializes in investments in mid-sized companies and provides capital and advisory services to enhance the growth potential of its portfolio companies. While their primary focus includes sectors such as telecommunications, IT services, software, and healthcare, they have also made significant investments in the automotive parts manufacturing industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Formel D GmbH, a company that provides services to the automotive industry, and Karl Eugen Fischer Group, which develops and manufactures cutting machines specifically for the tyre industry. Additionally, their acquisition of FRIMO Group, which supports the automotive supply chain, further highlights their engagement in this sector. With over 55 years of experience, Deutsche Beteiligungs AG operates a successful fund advisory business and continues to seek growth opportunities across various industries, including automotive parts manufacturing.


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 automotive parts manufacturing sector, including the acquisition of Köhler Automobiltechnik GmbH in 2006, a company that specializes in automotive technology, and RADO Gummi in 2005, which produces rubber components for the automotive industry. Additionally, they acquired Koller-Gruppe in 2015, further expanding their portfolio in the automotive sector. Their recent investment in PEAK Technology in 2024, while not directly an automotive parts manufacturer, indicates their ongoing interest in technology and innovation that can impact the automotive industry.


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 automotive parts manufacturing sector, as evidenced by its significant acquisitions. For instance, Aptiv acquired an 85% stake in Intercable Automotive Solutions for EUR595 million, aiming to bolster its position in vehicle architectural systems. Additionally, Aptiv has made strategic investments in companies like TTTech Auto, contributing $228 million to enhance safety software for autonomous vehicles, and has acquired firms such as Movimento Group and Antaya Technologies, further expanding its portfolio in automotive technologies. These transactions highlight Aptiv's role as a key player in the automotive parts manufacturing industry, focusing on innovative solutions that support the industry's transition to software-defined vehicles.


9. 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, including life sciences and software. Notably, Bayern Kapital has made significant investments in the automotive sector, including a Series A investment in DeepDrive, a company developing revolutionary drive units for electric vehicles, which has garnered attention from major automakers. They also participated in funding rounds for Evum Motors, a designer and manufacturer of electric utility vehicles, indicating their focus on advancing electric vehicle technology and manufacturing capabilities. These transactions highlight Bayern Kapital's active role in the automotive parts manufacturing industry.


10. 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 global leader in chemical manufacturing. The firm focuses on investing in innovative startups across various industries, including automotive, construction, and agriculture, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and enhancing product performance. Notable transactions include a Series A investment in Essentium, a 3D printing firm, which highlights their interest in advanced manufacturing technologies that can be applied in automotive parts production. Additionally, their involvement with companies like Applied Nano Surfaces and Group14 Technologies indicates a broader interest in materials science and nanotechnology, both of which are critical for developing high-performance automotive components. Through these investments, BASF Venture Capital aims to leverage its expertise in chemistry and materials to drive innovation in the automotive sector.


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 various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and electronics. Notably, Trumpf acquired EHT Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH, a mechanical engineering company, which enhances their capabilities in manufacturing solutions. Furthermore, Trumpf has invested in 3YOURMIND, a Berlin-based 3D printing software startup, which raised funds in multiple rounds, including a €4.7 million Series A+ round that focuses on sectors such as automotive. This investment supports the development of innovative manufacturing processes that are crucial for automotive parts production.


12. 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 excellence to address future challenges in transportation. Notable transactions include the acquisition of FAG Kugelfischer in 2001, Schaeffler Friction Products in 2008, and Compact Dynamics in 2017, all of which enhance their capabilities in the automotive parts sector. Additionally, their acquisition of Elmotec Statomat in 2018 and Xtronic GmbH in 2019 further demonstrates their strategic focus on expanding their automotive product portfolio and technological capabilities.


13. 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 leading multinational chemical manufacturer based in Ludwigshafen, Germany, founded in 1865. The company provides a diverse 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. In the automotive sector, BASF has made significant investments and acquisitions, such as the acquisition of Guilin REEcat Catalyst Co., Ltd, a motorcycle emissions-control catalyst manufacturer, and Chemetall GmbH, which specializes in surface treatment solutions. Additionally, BASF acquired ITWC, Inc., a company known for cast elastomer polyurethane systems, further expanding its capabilities in automotive applications. These strategic moves highlight BASF's commitment to enhancing automotive manufacturing processes and products, making them a relevant player in the automotive parts manufacturing industry.


14. 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, serving both automotive manufacturers and consumers with innovative solutions that enhance vehicle performance and safety. Founded in the 19th century, Continental has evolved into a major player in the automotive supply industry. In recent years, Continental AG has made several strategic acquisitions to strengthen its position in the automotive parts manufacturing sector. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Siemens VDO Automotive AG for €11.4 billion, which significantly enhanced their automotive supply capabilities. In December 2023, they announced plans to acquire Zhangjiagang Fugang Heli Electronics Co., an auto parts maker in China, further expanding their footprint in the automotive parts market. Additionally, their acquisition of Veyance Technologies for $1.8 billion in 2015 added to their portfolio of automotive technologies. Other significant acquisitions include Hornschuch, specializing in automotive interiors, and a 51% stake in Continental Matador Rubber s.r.o., a tire and conveyor belt business. These transactions highlight Continental AG's commitment to advancing its automotive parts manufacturing capabilities and its strategic focus on growth in this sector.


15. UVC Partners


UVC Partners is a venture capital firm based in Munich and Berlin that specializes in investing in B2B startups across Europe. Founded in 2011, the firm provides financial support and strategic guidance to early-stage companies, helping them grow and succeed in competitive markets. Their portfolio includes a diverse range of innovative startups in various sectors, including significant investments in the automotive industry. Notably, UVC Partners invested in DeepDrive, which raised €15M in a Series A round and $33.5M in a Series B round, focusing on revolutionary drive units for electric vehicles that enhance performance and reduce costs. Additionally, their investment in 3YOURMIND, a 3D printing software startup, supports growth in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and engineering, indicating their active role in the automotive parts manufacturing context. This combination of investments showcases UVC Partners' commitment to fostering innovation within the automotive sector.


16. 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. Notably, Project A has invested in kfzteile24, a Berlin-based online retailer for automobile parts and accessories, which raised a seven-figure funding round from Project A and EQT Mid Market Fund in 2016. This investment highlights their engagement in the automotive parts sector, alongside their broader focus on tech entrepreneurs and startups looking to scale their businesses effectively.


17. 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, founded in 1820 and based in Ulm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is a leading manufacturer specializing in semi-finished products made from copper and copper alloys. The company serves various industries, including automotive and aerospace, by providing high-quality materials and components. In recent years, Wieland has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in the automotive sector. Notably, they acquired Breuckmann eMobility in 2022, focusing on e-mobility components, which are increasingly important in the automotive industry. In 2023, they further expanded their portfolio by acquiring National Bronze Manufacturing and Heyco Metals, both of which contribute to their manufacturing capabilities relevant to automotive parts. Additionally, their acquisition of Morgan Bronze Products in 2024 aims to strengthen their presence in North America, particularly in growth markets like aerospace and defense, which often overlap with automotive applications. Wieland Group operates globally with a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, making them a significant player in the automotive parts manufacturing landscape.


18. 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 made several acquisitions in the automotive parts manufacturing sector, including FEP Fahrzeugelektrik Pirna in 2006, Reutter GmbH in 2017, UHB Kunststofftechnik in 2019, Cetelon in 2005, and Kautex Maschinenbau in 2007. These transactions highlight their active role in the automotive industry, particularly in companies that produce essential components for vehicles.



Automotive Parts Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
BoschBirenbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18865
SiemensMunich, Bavaria, Germany10001+184711
Capvis AGBaar, Zug, Switzerland11-5019900
Porsche VenturesStuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany11-5020189
Volkswagen Group Investor RelationsWolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany10001+19371
Deutsche Beteiligungs AGFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany51-20019652
Hannover FinanzHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-5019792
AptivSchaffhausen, Schaffhausen, Switzerland10001+20082
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
BASF Venture CapitalLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+20013
TrumpfDitzingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+20162
SchaefflerHerzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany10001+19462
BasfLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+18651
Continental AGHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-501
UVC PartnersGarching, Bavaria, Germany11-50201115
Project ABerlin, Berlin, Germany51-200201213
Wieland GroupUlm, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+18203
Steadfast Capital GmbHFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany11-5020010


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