Global investment firm Carlyle has successfully acquired a controlling stake in Highway Industries Limited ("Highway") and Roop Automotives Limited through an exclusive transaction. This strategic move marks a significant expansion of Carlyle’s footprint in the global auto components sector. The investment will be funded by Carlyle Asia Partners (CAP), aligning with the firm's long-term vision of building a diversified, high-value auto components platform.

Highway and Roop are well-established manufacturers of forged and precision-machined components, steering system assemblies, transmissions, and powertrain solutions for electric, hybrid, and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. With a robust portfolio of over 1,500 products, an international customer base spanning 17 countries, and a manufacturing network of 12 plants and 14 global warehouses, the combined platform is poised for substantial growth. Carlyle aims to deepen its investments in the auto components space, actively seeking synergistic acquisitions to expand capabilities and market reach.

The founding families of Highway and Roop will retain stakes in the newly formed platform, demonstrating their commitment to its continued success. Carlyle plans to leverage operational synergies between the two companies to enhance efficiencies, drive innovation, and strengthen customer offerings. By integrating advanced manufacturing technologies, optimizing talent, and investing in cutting-edge systems, the firm envisions positioning the platform as a leader in the global automotive supply chain.

Amit Jain, Managing Director and Head of Carlyle India Advisors, emphasized India’s potential as a global hub for advanced manufacturing. "India presents an exciting opportunity in the auto components sector, both domestically and for exports. Scaling through consolidation will enable critical investments in technology and operational excellence, reinforcing our commitment to delivering superior value to customers. We are thrilled to collaborate with Highway and Roop in this endeavor. Carlyle’s global network and experience in the automotive sector will accelerate the platform’s growth trajectory."

Mohit Oswal, Managing Director of Roop, highlighted the company’s legacy in steering components manufacturing. "For over three decades, we have built deep expertise and strong customer relationships worldwide. This partnership with Carlyle and Highway strengthens our position and allows us to offer comprehensive solutions to our clients."

Umesh Munjal, Managing Director of Highway, echoed these sentiments, stating, "Highway has been a pioneer in technology-driven growth within the auto sector. With Carlyle’s investment and our strategic collaboration with Roop, we are confident in driving innovation and expanding our offerings."

As part of the leadership transition, Mr. Oswal will serve as Non-Executive Chairperson of the Board. Additionally, seasoned industry veterans Mark Blaufuss and Kishore Saletore will join the Board, bringing extensive expertise in automotive and manufacturing operations.

Carlyle’s buyout funds, including Carlyle Asia Partners, have a strong track record in advanced manufacturing investments, deploying over $32 billion across 125 global deals, with $1.1 billion invested in Asia as of December 2024. Through this acquisition, Carlyle is set to build a powerhouse in the global auto components industry, driving innovation, expansion, and long-term value creation.