Benteler Automotive to Purchase PD&E Automotive B.V – Brief Article
Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH & Co. KG said that it has signed an agreement with NedCar to acquire the passenger car manufacturer’s subsidiary, PD&E Automotive B.V. Depending on the approval of all parties concerned, the transfer of ownership is expected to take place in June, the company said.
PD&E, located in Helmond, The Netherlands, is an automotive engineering, testing and validation company employing 365 engineers and technicians. PD&E specializes in body, powertrain, suspension, electrical/electronic and interior trim systems and modules.
NedCar, located in Born, The Netherlands, assembles passenger vehicles, including the Volvo S40 and V40, and Mitsubishi Carisma.
Benteler said it intends to manage PD&E as an independent business unit, using its resources to maintain and grow the automotive supplier’s full vehicle development orientation. “This is a significant step towards maintaining and expanding our global market position, as well as our reputation as a technology-driven manufacturer of automotive components and systems,” said Nick N. Ghoussaini, president and chief executive officer of Benteler.
“The acquisition allows us to offer engineering services directly to car manufacturers and Tier One suppliers.” Ghoussaini added that the portfolio of PD&E resources also enhances the company’s technical strengths in chassis, structural and safety, exhaust and small tubes product areas.
He estimated that 10-20 percent of PD&E’s current capacity will be used for internal Benteler projects. Benteler produces chassis components and modules, safety and structural products, exhaust systems, and tubular products.
Headquartered in Paderborn, Germany, the automotive group is one of four business units owned by Benteler A.G.: Automotive, Steel/Tube, Mechanical Engineering, and Trade. Benteler A.G., with sales of $2.7 billion, operates 40 plants in 13 countries and employs more than 17,500 people. Benteler’s North American executive offices are located in Grand Rapids and Livonia, Michigan.
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