Cummins Inc has signed an agreement to acquire the heavy duty emissions control business of 3i-backed Hilite International. Headquartered in Marktheidenfeld, Germany, Hilite is a global supplier of leading automotive system solutions. The purchase price was undisclosed.
Hilite’s emissions control unit is a world-class technology leader in the design and assembly of exhaust dosing systems for on- and off-road heavy duty vehicles. The business accounts for approximately 25 percent of Hilite’s revenues. It is a market leader offering superior solutions which enable its customers to meet increasingly strict global emissions standards.
Following the sale, Hilite will focus on its core business of powertrain components for passenger cars where it has an ambitious international growth strategy. The company with its best-in-class automotive solutions benefits from the global trend of increased demand for fuel efficiency.
Srikanth Padmanabhan, Vice President and General Manager of Cummins Emission Solutions (CES), says regarding Hilite’s emissions control unit: “Hilite’s technology complements our internal development efforts and the combined product portfolio will significantly enhance our overall aftertreatment components growth strategy. Furthermore, Hilite’s strong European presence and their experienced team of engineers will be valuable to Cummins.”
Ulf von Haacke (pictured), Partner and Managing Director of 3i Germany, says: “Under 3i’s ownership, Hilite has almost doubled the revenue of Hilite’s emissions control business. This development, combined with the continued attractive growth prospects of the business, resulted in extensive strategic interest. Therefore, 3i felt it was an opportune time to sell the unit to a strategic investor who will be focused on leveraging the growth opportunity and taking it to the next level. The sale will result in an attractive return for 3i.”
Karl Hammer, CEO of Hilite International, says: “Following the divestment, we will focus our efforts and capital on Hilite’s powertrain components business for passenger cars. Focusing on our core business, we will continue our ambitious growth strategy to further strengthen our market leading position by leveraging our R&D capabilities and international footprint.”
Hilite’s emissions control business will become part of Cummins Emission Solutions.
The completion of this transaction is subject to regulatory approval. Jefferies acted as financial advisor and Willkie Farr & Gallagher as legal advisor for 3i.
