The SUV manufacturing industry in the DACH region has become a vibrant segment characterized by robust growth and innovation. With key players like Mercedes-Benz and BMW evolving their product lines to include electric SUVs, this industry fits into a larger narrative of sustainable mobility. Companies not only produce traditional SUVs but also invest in electric and hybrid vehicles, showcasing a significant pivot toward eco-friendly solutions. As consumer preferences shift toward larger vehicles with better utility and safety features, manufacturers are responding swiftly with advanced technologies and flexible designs, signaling a promising future for the industry.


The list of investors contemplates various backgrounds, including corporate entities and private equity firms. Predominantly based in Germany and Switzerland, the firms range from giants like Volkswagen Group to specialized players like Bayern Kapital. Most organizations boast substantial workforce sizes, indicating robust capabilities and resources. Over the past year, these investors executed deals that reflect their commitment to supporting innovation in the SUV sector, with some reflecting an increasing interest in electric vehicle technology as traditional auto markets evolve.


Top 18 SUV 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 is known for its multi-brand strategy, which includes several well-known brands such as Audi and Scout Motors. In 2023, Volkswagen's Scout Motors, an electric off-road brand, announced plans to establish a $2 billion EV plant in South Carolina, highlighting their focus on SUV manufacturing. Furthermore, Volkswagen's investment in XPeng Inc. for approximately $705.6 million demonstrates their commitment to developing electric vehicles, including SUVs. The acquisition of a 50% stake in Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Group also indicates their strategy to enhance their competitive position in the SUV market, particularly in China. Overall, Volkswagen Group is actively engaged in the SUV manufacturing sector while also exploring electric vehicle solutions.


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 headquartered in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is a leading automobile manufacturer renowned for its luxury vehicles and vans. The company focuses on quality and performance, offering a diverse range of cars and vans equipped with advanced technology. In recent years, Mercedes-Benz has been involved in significant transactions within the automotive sector, including investments in Aston Martin and Tesla. For instance, they participated in a funding round for Aston Martin, which raised substantial capital, indicating their interest in high-performance automotive brands. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz has a history of investing in Tesla, contributing to its growth and expansion in the electric vehicle market. These transactions highlight Mercedes-Benz's commitment to innovation and its strategic positioning within the automotive industry, particularly in the SUV segment.


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 has grown to become a leader in various sectors, including mobility solutions, consumer goods, industrial technology, and energy solutions. In the automotive sector, Bosch is known for its innovative technology solutions that enhance vehicle performance and sustainability. Notably, Bosch has participated in significant transactions relevant to SUV manufacturing, such as their investment in WeRide, a self-driving car startup, which showcases their commitment to advancing automotive technology. Additionally, Bosch's acquisition of Evergrande hofer powertrain GmbH, which specializes in electric drive units, positions them strategically within the electric vehicle market, including electric SUVs. These activities highlight Bosch's active role in the automotive industry, making them a relevant investor in the SUV manufacturing space.


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, Germany, specializing in early-stage investments across mobility, industrial technology, and sustainability sectors. Founded in 2018, the firm has made significant strides in supporting startups with capital, strategic guidance, and access to a robust network of industry connections. Notably, Porsche Ventures has invested in Rimac Group, a company known for its electric hypercars and advanced powertrain technology, which is highly relevant to the future of SUV manufacturing as the industry moves towards electrification. Their acquisition of a 10% stake in Rimac in 2018 and subsequent investments in the company highlight their commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into their vehicle offerings. Additionally, their involvement with Red Bull Racing and WayRay further demonstrates their engagement in the automotive sector, making them a relevant player in the SUV manufacturing landscape.


5. 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, founded in 2008. The company specializes in providing advanced solutions for vehicle safety, connectivity, and electrification, serving automotive manufacturers and OEMs. Aptiv's product offerings include advanced driver-assistance systems, electrical distribution systems, and software development services. In recent years, Aptiv has made several strategic acquisitions to strengthen its position in the automotive industry. Notably, the acquisition of Intercable Automotive Solutions in 2022 for approximately $602 million aims to enhance vehicle architectural systems, which are crucial for modern SUVs. Other acquisitions, such as Unwired Technology and Control Tec LLC, further demonstrate Aptiv's commitment to advancing automotive technology. These transactions highlight Aptiv's role as a key player in the automotive sector, particularly in the context of SUV manufacturing.


6. 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 been involved in significant transactions within the automotive sector, such as its investment in Evum Motors, which raised €20 million to expand production of electric utility vehicles. Additionally, they have supported DeepDrive, a company focused on revolutionary drive units for electric vehicles, which is collaborating with major automakers to enhance vehicle performance. These transactions highlight Bayern Kapital's commitment to fostering innovation in the automotive industry, particularly in the realm of electric vehicles, which is increasingly relevant to SUV 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 various transactions, including the acquisition of Köhler Automobiltechnik GmbH in 2006, which is relevant to the automotive sector. Other notable transactions include the acquisitions of Simplon Fahrrad, Koller-Gruppe, and Hubert Schlieckmann GmbH, as well as a significant minority interest in PEAK Technology GmbH in 2024. While their primary focus is not solely on SUV manufacturing, their involvement in the automotive industry through Köhler Automobiltechnik suggests a connection to the sector.


8. UVC Partners


UVC Partners is a venture capital firm based in Munich and Berlin, specializing 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 in competitive markets. Their portfolio includes a diverse range of innovative startups across various sectors. Notably, UVC Partners has invested in DeepDrive, which raised significant funding in 2023 and 2024 for its revolutionary drive units designed for electric vehicles. This technology promises to enhance the range and efficiency of electric vehicles, making it particularly relevant for SUV manufacturers as they transition to electric models. UVC Partners also participated in funding rounds for other companies like FINN, which operates in the mobility sector, further showcasing their engagement in transportation-related innovations.


9. Bmw

  • Website: bmw.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Diedorf, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1800
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: sokratel-gmbh

BMW is a corporate investor based in Diedorf, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1800. As a leading automobile manufacturer, BMW specializes in the design, production, and sale of luxury vehicles, including electric and hybrid models. The company has made significant acquisitions to enhance its portfolio, such as the acquisition of the British car manufacturer MINI, which has expanded their offerings in the compact SUV segment. Additionally, BMW acquired the rights to the Alpina brand, which is known for its high-performance vehicles, potentially including luxury SUVs. These strategic moves reflect BMW's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry, particularly as they adapt to the growing demand for SUVs and electric vehicles.


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. As a leading automotive component manufacturer, Schaeffler specializes in mobility solutions, offering a diverse 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 address future challenges in transportation. Notably, Schaeffler has made several strategic acquisitions, such as FAG Kugelfischer in 2001, Compact Dynamics in 2017, and Elmotec Statomat in 2018, which enhance their technological capabilities and product offerings relevant to the automotive sector. These transactions reflect Schaeffler's commitment to advancing mobility solutions, including those applicable to SUV manufacturing.


11. Continental AG


Continental AG is a corporate investor based in Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany, primarily known as an automotive manufacturer and technology provider. The company specializes in producing high-quality tires and advanced automotive components that enhance vehicle performance and safety. In recent years, Continental AG has made several strategic acquisitions to strengthen its position in the automotive supply industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Siemens VDO Automotive AG for €11.4 billion, which significantly bolstered their automotive supply capabilities. Additionally, their acquisition of Hornschuch, a company specializing in automotive interiors, further demonstrates their commitment to enhancing vehicle components. These transactions highlight Continental AG's active role in the automotive sector, making them a relevant investor in the context of SUV manufacturing.


12. BMW Group

  • Website: bmwgroup.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1916
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: bmw-group

BMW Group, founded in 1916 and based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is a prominent automobile manufacturer known for its luxury vehicles and motorcycles. The company operates under the BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce brands, catering to consumers who prioritize quality and innovation. In recent years, BMW Group has made strategic moves to enhance its position in the SUV market, including the acquisition of the Alpina brand, a long-term tuning partner, which will allow them to integrate Alpina's operations and branding into their offerings by 2025. Additionally, BMW Group has invested in Solid Power, a company specializing in solid-state batteries for electric vehicles, which is crucial for the development of electric SUVs. This focus on sustainability and e-mobility reflects BMW Group's commitment to addressing the evolving needs of consumers while maintaining excellence in manufacturing.


13. 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. In 2022 and 2023, Siemens Financial Services has been actively involved in several significant transactions that align with the evolving landscape of the automotive industry, particularly in electric vehicles. For instance, they led a Series A financing round for 7 Gen, which aims to accelerate the deployment of electric trucks and buses, highlighting their commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. Additionally, their investment in KORE Power, which is building a gigafactory for lithium-ion battery cells, underscores their focus on the essential components for electric vehicle production. Their stake in Electrify America further emphasizes their strategic interest in the electric vehicle ecosystem, which is crucial for the future of SUV manufacturing as the market increasingly shifts towards electric models.


14. Linamar Europe

  • Website: linamar.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Plettenberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1966
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: linamar-europe

Linamar Europe, based in Plettenberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a corporate investor specializing in advanced manufacturing. Founded in 1966, the company focuses on precision-engineered components and systems for various industries, including automotive, agricultural, and medical devices. In recent years, Linamar has made significant acquisitions to enhance its position in the automotive sector. Notably, their acquisition of Montupet S.A. for approximately €771 million aims to strengthen their capabilities in aluminum casting and machining, which are critical for SUV manufacturing. Additionally, their acquisition of Dura-Shiloh's battery enclosures business, which includes factories in North Macedonia and Czechia, reflects their commitment to supporting the evolving needs of the automotive industry, including electric SUVs. Linamar's strategic investments and focus on innovation position them as a relevant player in the SUV manufacturing landscape.


15. Mahle

  • Website: mahle.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
  • Founded year: 1920
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: mahle

MAHLE GmbH, based in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is a corporate investor and a leading automotive parts manufacturer founded in 1920. The company specializes in components and systems for combustion engines and electric mobility, serving automotive manufacturers with innovative solutions aimed at enhancing performance and reducing emissions. In recent years, Mahle has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its capabilities in the automotive sector. Notably, the acquisition of Keihin in 2021 has strengthened Mahle's presence in the air conditioning sector, which is essential for both conventional and electric vehicles, including SUVs. Additionally, the acquisition of ZG-Zahnräder und Getriebe GmbH in 2019 has enhanced Mahle's expertise in complete powertrains, a critical aspect of SUV manufacturing. These transactions reflect Mahle's commitment to advancing automotive technologies that are relevant to the SUV market.


16. 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 was involved in significant transactions, including a notable investment in IM Motors, a premium electric vehicle brand under SAIC, which raised over $1.1 billion in its Series B funding round. This investment highlights Momenta's engagement in the automotive sector, particularly in the development of smart car models and advanced technologies. Additionally, they have participated in other funding rounds, such as FreeWire Technologies and NODE Robotics, which, while not directly related to SUVs, indicate their broader interest in innovative technologies that could impact the automotive industry.


17. 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, supporting them in expanding operations and achieving long-term success. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Westfalia-Automotive, a manufacturer of towbar devices, which is relevant to the automotive sector, and the acquisition of Fischer Surface Technologies, which may also have applications in automotive manufacturing. DPE's portfolio includes various companies that contribute to the automotive supply chain, indicating their potential involvement in the SUV manufacturing context.


18. 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 corporate investor specializing in advanced engine technology and drive systems. The company has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its portfolio, including the acquisition of Urban Mobility Systems in April 2025, which may contribute to innovative mobility solutions relevant to the SUV market. In September 2017, DEUTZ AG acquired Torqeedo, a company focused on electric propulsion systems, which aligns with the increasing demand for electric SUVs. Furthermore, their agreement to acquire Blue Star Power Systems in June 2024 is expected to generate significant revenue, potentially enhancing their capabilities in powertrain technologies. DEUTZ AG's investments in companies like Blue World Technologies, which focuses on methanol fuel cell technology, also reflect their commitment to alternative powertrains, a critical area for the future of SUV manufacturing.



SUV 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
Porsche VenturesStuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany11-5020189
AptivSchaffhausen, Schaffhausen, Switzerland10001+20082
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
Hannover FinanzHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-5019792
UVC PartnersGarching, Bavaria, Germany11-50201115
BmwDiedorf, Bavaria, Germany5001-1000018002
SchaefflerHerzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany10001+19462
Continental AGHanover, Lower Saxony, Germany11-501
BMW GroupMunich, Bavaria, Germany10001+19160
Siemens Financial ServicesMunich, Bavaria, Germany1001-5000199715
Linamar EuropePlettenberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany1001-500019660
MahleStuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany10001+19200
MomentaEngelberg, Obwalden, Switzerland11-5020127
Deutsche Private Equity (DPE)Munich, Bavaria, Germany51-20020072
Deutz AgHerten, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany1001-500018644


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