Knorr-Bremse invests in Chinese e-motor specialist

Knorr-Bremse, a global supplier of braking systems and a leading supplier of other rail and commercial vehicle systems, has invested in Chinese electric motor supplier Shanghai Bobang Automotive Technology Co., Ltd. in return for a minority stake of around 13%. The investment, which the company said is “worth a mid-single digit million euro amount,” is intended to strengthen Knorr-Bremse’s position as a supplier of braking and steering systems for commercial vehicles by increasing the company’s e-motor competencies and making it more cost competitive.

(Photo: Knorr-Bremse)

“We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Bobang,” said Bernd Spies, member of the executive board of Knorr-Bremse AG responsible for the Commercial Vehicle Systems division. “By investing in Bobang, we’re pursuing sustainable development through our bolt-on M&A strategy.

“Essentially, we’re responding to the automated driving and e-mobility industry trend by further enhancing our e-motor capabilities. Together with Bobang, we’re strengthening our resources for developing new e-mobility products so we can offer cost-competitive solutions to our customers worldwide. This investment is also an excellent demonstration of our long-term commitment to and confidence in China.”

The partnership between Knorr-Bremse and Bobang will help both companies to further enhance and accelerate their response to the electrification of commercial vehicles. At the same time, the partners will be able to leverage their combined strengths to address the associated challenges.

“As investee and partner, we’re very excited to be engaging in this strategic venture with Knorr-Bremse,” said Changri Ke, Bobang’s vice president for Research & Development. “It will allow us to further expand our e-motor portfolio and related applications.

“By combining forces, we can leverage a powerful combination of cutting-edge technology and outstanding manufacturing expertise to deliver best-in-class but affordable products to customers in the automotive industry – not just in China, but around the world.”