KW Automotive Group Purchases AL-KO Damping Technology Business Unit

KW Automotive Group has acquired the damping technology business unit from AL-KO Vehicle Technology Group, the company announced.

With approximately 250 employees at two facilities in Spain and China, the AL-KO Damping Technology business unit manufactures shock absorbers for an array of commercial vehicles with varying body solutions and chassis types. KW previously purchased Reiger Suspension, the off-road racing damper manufacturer, in Jan. 2021. Financial details of the transactions are not yet available.

“The business relationship between AL-KO Damping Technology and KW automotive has already existed for a number of years. This transaction offers the opportunity for a technological leap forward, from which our AL-KO product segments will also benefit. KW automotive Group will serve as a home where all employees feel welcomed and are valued as part of the KW automotive Team. We plan to continue to work closely with KW over the long term,” said Harald Hiller, president and CEO of the AL-KO Vehicle Technology Group.

Hiller added that the AL-KO Vehicle Technology Group itself will focus on its core business, the development and production of high-quality chassis and suspension components for trailers, recreational vehicles, light commercial vehicles and new mobility solutions.

“With AL-KO, we gained a team of outstanding experts in the field of damping technology,” stated Klaus Wohlfarth, managing partner of KW automotive GmbH. “AL-KO Damping Technology’s many years of experience and expertise in industrial production enrich our core business, which we intend to expand even further. With the two manufacturing factories in Europe and China, we simplify and strengthen our supply chains, and share our core values.”

By A.J. Hecht

A.J. Hecht is the managing editor of THE SHOP and host of the In Gear with THE SHOP podcast. Have an idea, a tip, or a question you’d like to see answered? Contact A.J. at ahecht@cahabamedia.com.