Jost Werke and Daimler are negotiating the acquisition of Mercedes-Benz Trailer Axle Systems, which is one of Europe's largest producers of trailer axles, by the Jost Group. The Neu-Isenburg-based company plans to expand its product range for commercial vehicles by offering trailer axles.

The acquisition of Mercedes-Benz Trailer Axle Systems is slated for completion in early 2015, subject to successful final negotiations and approval by the anti-trust authorities.

The employee representatives at the Daimler plant in Kassel, Germany, were included early on in the negotiations on issues concerning the employees who have been kept up-to-date through various information events, the company said in a statement.

Mercedes-Benz Trailer Axle Systems has been making axles for commercial vehicles for the European market since 1996. When the Jost Group acquires it, it will further expand the business.

Mercedes-Benz is a pioneer in the use of disc brakes for commercial vehicles. Along with the first truck fully equipped with disc brakes, the Actros, Mercedes-Benz had launched the production of trailer axles equipped with disc brakes almost two decades ago.