TE Connectivity to acquire Kissling Group, expands portfolio for hybrid electric CV solutions

TE Connectivity (TE), the $14 billion world leader in connectivity and sensors, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Kissling Group of companies, a provider of high-power relays and ruggedised switches used in the commercial vehicle, transportation, industrial, military and aviation industries as well as other applications. The transaction is expected to close May 30, 2019, following the completion of customary regulatory approvals.

With this acquisition, TE further expands its portfolio of specialty relays and switches to support the needs of industrial and commercial transportation customers – truck, bus, construction and other specialised vehicle manufacturers, facing evolving high voltage and power management requirements as they design next-generation vehicles. Integrating Kissling’s range of products into TE’s existing hybrid and electric mobility solutions (HEMS) portfolio further strengthens TE's ability to develop and provide integrated, highly engineered solutions for customers worldwide.

“Kissling has an established reputation as an innovation leader in building mission-critical hardware with products that have a solid performance track record in the commercial vehicle, transportation and industrial markets,” said Aaron Stucki, senior vice-president and general manager of TE’s Industrial & Commercial Transportation business unit. “Their specialty relays and ruggedised switches and expertise in electronics for smart relays and power distribution, combined with TE’s broad portfolio, global footprint and close customer partnerships, will allow us to strengthen our support for customers in markets around the world.”

Headquartered in Wildberg, Germany, Kissling is a privately owned company that has about 450 employees at sites in Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia, Spain and the U.S. TE and Kissling will continue to operate as independent companies until the acquisition closes, after which Kissling and the Kissling brand will become part of TE’s Industrial & Commercial Transportation business.