Carlyle Completes Acquisition of Highway and Roop, Establishes Global Auto Components Platform

Deal News | Feb 13, 2025 | The Carlyle Group

Carlyle Group, a leading global investment firm, has successfully acquired a controlling stake in two major Indian auto component manufacturers, Highway Industries Limited and Roop Automotives Limited, to create a platform for advanced automotive manufacturing. This transaction was part of Carlyle's strategy to expand its presence in India's advanced manufacturing sector, particularly in the auto components supply chain. Both Highway and Roop have established themselves as key players in the production of essential vehicle components over the past few decades. With this acquisition, Carlyle aims to enhance the two companies' synergy, operational capabilities, and technological capacities, thus offering superior value to their extensive global clientele. The deal reflects Carlyle's profound commitment to the Indian market and ambition to integrate these companies into its larger global network, harnessing its expertise in automotive investments. The transaction underscores a strategic consolidation move by Carlyle in the global auto components sector.

Sectors

  • Automotive Components Manufacturing
  • Private Equity Investment
  • Advanced Manufacturing

Geography

  • India – The acquisition of Indian firms Highway Industries Limited and Roop Automotives Limited underscores India's importance as a hub for advanced manufacturing and automotive component production.
  • Global – Carlyle's strategy involves leveraging global synergies and expanding their automotive sector investments worldwide, indicating a broad geographical focus for the newly formed platform.

Industry

  • Automotive Components Manufacturing – Highway and Roop are prominent manufacturers of automotive components, including steering systems and transmission parts. Carlyle's investment aligns with the growth trajectory and technological advancements in this sector.
  • Private Equity Investment – Carlyle Group is a major player providing strategic private equity investments. Its involvement signifies a significant PE transaction in the global automotive sector.
  • Advanced Manufacturing – The focus on enhancing manufacturing capabilities and tech-driven growth aligns with the advanced manufacturing industry, indicating significant importance in technological innovation and manufacturing excellence.

Financials

  • US$1.1 billion – Part of the US$32 billion equity invested globally by Carlyle's buyout funds in the Advanced Manufacturing or Industrial sector.
  • US$441 billion – Assets under management by Carlyle as of December 31, 2024.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
The Carlyle GroupAcquirerCompanyA global investment firm with expertise in private equity and a focus on creating value through strategic investments.
Highway Industries LimitedTarget CompanyCompanyAn Indian manufacturer of powertrain sub-systems and components for automotive applications globally.
Roop Automotives LimitedTarget CompanyCompanyA leading manufacturer of steering components and assemblies in India with a strong export market.
KPMGLegal and Financial AdvisorCompanyAdvisor to Carlyle as well as Highway and Roop shareholders in the transaction.
TrilegalLegal AdvisorCompanyLegal advisor to Carlyle for the acquisition deal.
KotakFinancial AdvisorCompanyFinancial advisor to Carlyle for the transaction.
DeloitteFinancial AdvisorCompanyFinancial advisor to Carlyle for the acquisition.
Singhi AdvisorsFinancial AdvisorCompanyProvided financial advisory services to Highway shareholders.
Adfactors PRPublic RelationsCompanyHandled media communications for the transaction on behalf of Carlyle.