Tier 1 supplier Dana has acquired a non-controlling stake in Detroit-based Pi Innovo, a leader in embedded software solutions and electronics control units for the light vehicle, commercial vehicle, and off-highway markets.

With this Dana says its ability to design, engineer, and deliver a complete vehicle integration for e-propulsion systems and e-accessories, including battery chargers, electro-hydraulic power steering systems, and e-air compressors has positioned the company as a leader in vehicle electrification. The investment in Pi Innovo will further enable Dana to enhance its in-house electric-vehicle capabilities by providing turnkey software and control solutions for its entire portfolio of technologies.

James Kamsickas, chairman and CEO, Dana said: "Software and controls are essential in the functionality of increasingly complex e-powertrain architectures, playing a critical role in maximising efficiency and managing the systems used throughout the vehicle. Pi Innovo's exceptional team of engineers leverage more than 25 years of experience to provide proven, safe, and flexible solutions to meet the growing demand for automotive embedded controls in the e-Mobility market and beyond."

When combined with Dana's complete systems capabilities for e-propulsion, the companies will be able to further enhance the flexibility, robustness, and efficiency of the entire vehicle systems, while meeting the latest functional safety requirements.

Dr. Walter Lucking, CEO, Pi Innovo said: "Pi Innovo has developed advanced software and controls solutions and production ECUs to enable the efficiency and safety of electric vehicles. Dana's capabilities across the entire mobility spectrum will give Pi Innovo further access to a growing customer base, and the company's experience in vehicle electrification makes it an attractive partner for bringing customers complete turnkey solutions."

Pi Innovo is a provider of sophisticated modular software and controls solutions for a wide variety of applications, including electric and hybrid vehicles that adheres to the highest functional safety requirements.