FORVIA HELLA Company Profile

Background

FORVIA HELLA, established in 1899 as "Westfälische Metall-Industrie Aktien-Gesellschaft," has evolved from a specialized manufacturer of lamps and horns for early automobiles into a global leader in automotive lighting and electronics. As a key entity within the FORVIA Group—the world's seventh-largest automotive technology supplier—FORVIA HELLA is dedicated to pioneering technologies that enhance mobility experiences, emphasizing safety, sustainability, and innovation.

Key Strategic Focus

FORVIA HELLA concentrates on three primary business groups:

Lighting: Development and production of advanced headlamps, rear combination lamps, and interior lighting systems.

Electronics: Creation of components and systems for automated driving, energy management, and body electronics.

Lifecycle Solutions: Provision of products and services for the independent aftermarket, workshops, and special vehicle manufacturers.

These focus areas align with the automotive industry's megatrends, including electrification, autonomous driving, and digitalization.

Financials and Funding

In the fiscal year 2024, FORVIA HELLA reported:

Sales: €8.1 billion

Research and Development Expenditure: €803 million

Employees: Approximately 36,500 across over 125 locations in 35 countries

Technological Platform and Innovation

FORVIA HELLA's technological advancements include:

Lighting Technology: Innovations such as the digital headlamp SSL | HD, enhancing vehicle safety and design.

Electronics: Development of fully electronic indicator units since 1965, now leading in products for autonomous driving and electromobility.

Artificial Intelligence: Utilization of AI across the value chain to improve decision-making, quality control, and product development.

Leadership Team

Bernard Schäferbarthold: Chief Executive Officer since January 1, 2024.

Leadership Changes

Bernard Schäferbarthold succeeded as CEO on January 1, 2024.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The automotive parts industry is experiencing significant transformations due to electrification, autonomous driving, and increased competition from emerging markets, particularly China.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Bosch: Offers a broad range of automotive technologies, including powertrain solutions and safety systems.

Continental AG: Specializes in automotive safety, interior electronics, and powertrain components.

Valeo: Focuses on electrification, autonomous driving, and lighting systems.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

FORVIA HELLA engages in various collaborations to drive innovation:

Academic Partnerships: Collaborations with institutions like the University of California, Berkeley, and the Indian Institute of Science for sensor development.

Industrial Alliances: Partnerships with companies such as Accenture and Microsoft to advance digital transformation and AI capabilities.

Operational Insights

FORVIA HELLA's integration into the FORVIA Group has enhanced its market position, allowing for a more comprehensive product portfolio and increased competitiveness in the evolving automotive landscape.