Major diesel engine manufacturer Deutz AG has announced that it has purchased Futavis GmbH, a development service provider for battery management hardware and software writes Dag Pike.
The addition of Futavis GmbH to the Deutz Group will enable the company to incorporate batteries, which are a crucial core component, into its electrification strategy. A spokesperson for Deutz commented, “This will strengthen our in-house expertise in key battery technology with the addition of high-voltage battery management systems which enhances the E-Deutz strategy. Futavis has many years of experience with a variety of prestigious customers.”
Futavis has extensive technical expertise in electronics, software, battery technology, and battery testing and in ensuring functional safety. Deutz has recently acquired Torqeedo, the specialist marine electric motor and drives company and this marine sector will be enhanced with the high-voltage battery technology of Futavis.
“Battery technology is a vitally important element of our E-Deutz strategy, which we will be further expanding with the Futavis acquisition. With Futavis adding to the strong systems expertise of our Deutz and Torqeedo development teams by contributing its knowledge of components for high-voltage batteries, battery management systems, and safety engineering, we are taking the next step towards CO2 free off-highway-mobility,” says Dr. Frank Hiller, the Chief Executive Officer of Deutz AG.
Futavis GmbH has developed and implemented numerous systems for prestigious customers in the automotive and commercial vehicle sectors. Founded in Alsdorf in 2013, the company employs around 30 people and is aiming to generate revenue of more than €5 million in 2019. The take-over by Deutz with its Torqeedo connection will allow expansion in the marine sector which is viewed as a significant area where Deutz has had a strong foothold with the supply of diesel engines.
By Dag Pike
