Taiwan-headquartered Innolux Corporation is set to acquire Japanese electronics major Pioneer Corporation from EQT for USD 1.1 billion. As per the understanding, CarUX, a subsidiary of Innolux Corporation, focussing on smart cockpit solutions, will create strong synergies with Pioneer’s existing capabilities to continue on its global expansion trajectory.

Pioneer, a Japanese leader in automotive sound and navigation systems, has been an engineering powerhouse since its founding in 1938, known for its robust research and development and industry-leading manufacturing. The company provides in-car navigation and audio electronics to both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and the consumer aftermarket, alongside various hardware and software solutions for the automotive sector.

Since its 2019 acquisition by EQT, Pioneer has undergone a significant transformation to restore its financial health and ensure long-term growth. This effort has yielded strong results, with the company achieving double-digit EBITDA margins and substantial free cash flow for the fiscal year ending March 2025. EQT’s strategic initiatives included strengthening corporate governance, appointing a new leadership team and implementing strict cost and capital discipline, all of which substantially boosted profitability and cash generation.

The Japanese company has successfully refocused on its core expertise in automotive audio, introducing a new amplifier technology platform and securing major projects from clients both domestically and internationally. The company has also expanded into new growth areas by leveraging its existing technologies, launching Mobility Services (software-led navigation utilising proprietary Japan-specific map data) and Mobility AI Connectivity (AI-based dash cameras for global markets). Furthermore, Pioneer demonstrated resilience during challenging periods like the Covid-19 pandemic and semiconductor shortages, thanks to enhanced operational efficiencies and the strategic divestment of non-core assets.

Shiro Yahara, President and CEO, Pioneer, said, “EQT has been instrumental in helping us drive transformation and innovation while preserving our DNA as a global leader in automotive technology. We look forward to this next chapter of growth with CarUX, building on the solid foundation that EQT helped us establish. We are proud to celebrate this milestone and look forward to partnering with CarUX to continue our product innovations and accelerate our global expansion.”

Sanjay Dhawan, Chairperson of the Board and Independent Director of Pioneer, said, “The automotive industry is undergoing a profound digital transformation, with digital content in vehicles rising from 27 percent to 40 percent and software playing an increasingly central role in cars. Under EQT’s ownership, Pioneer has embarked on a transformative journey – embracing innovation to lead in this new, software-defined era of mobility. This innovation has created substantial value across the board, benefiting customers, employees and shareholders alike.”

Shane Predeek, Partner, EQT Private Capital, said, “We are proud to have helped revitalise one of Japan’s most iconic brands and reposition it for long-term success. This milestone marks an exciting new chapter for Pioneer, and we believe that there are synergies with CarUX and its parent company, Innolux, that will greatly benefit the business and its future potential. At EQT, we are committed to being responsible stewards of our companies – ensuring they are handed over to owners who can continue the momentum we’ve built and support their next phase of growth. This transaction also reflects EQT’s growing momentum in Japan, where we continue to execute on our strategy of building stronger, more resilient businesses with global ambition.”

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BorgWarner has secured three conquest business contracts with a powertrain technology manufacturer to supply turbocharging systems for light-vehicle petrol platforms across South America and Europe.

The agreements cover the supply of one variable turbine geometry (VTG) turbocharger unit and two wastegate turbocharger variants, with series production scheduled to commence in 2027.

The VTG turbocharger system is engineered for Miller-cycle gasoline engines operating at exhaust gas temperatures up to 1050deg Celsius, providing boost pressure control and efficiency across operational speed ranges.

BorgWarner's wastegate turbocharger technology features scalable compressor and turbine stages designed with single-scroll, twin-scroll, or dual-volute turbine configurations. The wastegate units incorporate pneumatic or electric actuation options alongside integrated compressor recirculation valves to support fuel economy requirements and emissions compliance.

Dr. Volker Weng, Vice-President of BorgWarner Inc. and President and General Manager of Turbos and Thermal Technologies, said, "We value our longstanding relationship with this global leader in powertrain technology and the opportunity to support its evolving business and broader commodity strategy. These contracts reflect the trust we have established with the customer and the strength of our offerings, including competitive solutions and deep technical expertise. We look forward to continuing to support the customer with innovations that deliver lasting value."

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German tier-1 supplier ZF has developed the High Revolution Drive, a 3-in-1 electric drive system capable of reaching rotational speeds of up to 30,000 rpm. Designed as a variant of the company's modular SELECT platform, the unit integrates an electric motor, power electronics and a two-stage spur gear transmission with a reduction ratio of approximately 18:1. The system delivers a peak power output of 200 kW and peak wheel torque of 3,500 Nm.

Compared to a conventional SELECT drive operating at 18,000 rpm, the High Revolution Drive reduces overall installation space and weight by nearly 25 percent, while reducing required magnet mass by 50 percent. The architecture is scalable across power outputs ranging from 150 kW to 200 kW for 400-volt and 800-volt vehicle platforms, achieving a system efficiency of nearly 93 per cent. ZF is engaging with vehicle manufacturers regarding deployment, with volume production targeted for 2030.

Thomas Meiser, Head of the E-Mobility Business Unit, ZF, said, "The High Revolution Drive draws on ZF s full systems expertise. Rather than optimising individual components in isolation, we systematically coordinate the electric motor, power electronics and transmission. Robustness and low noise and vibration levels were stringent development targets from the outset. To achieve this, we considered the electric motor, gearing, bearings and tooth geometry as an integrated system. For the configuration presented, 30,000 rpm is the economic and technical sweet spot. With SELECT, we do not have to start from scratch for every new drive variant. We use our modular system to tailor new concepts to different customer requirements."

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Tenneco Clean Air India has reported its financial results for the Q2 FY2027 and H1 FY2027, recording a 32.2 percent YoY increase in value-added revenue to INR 152.29 billion for Q2 FY2027. Revenue from operations rose 34.2 percent to INR 171.83 billion during the quarter.

Quarterly earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) grew 20.7 percent to INR 26.16 million, delivering an EBITDA margin of 17.2 percent on value-added revenue. Profit after tax increased 15 percent YoY to INR 17.34 billion.

For the first half of FY27, value-added revenue reached INR 290.44 billion, up 25.3 percent, while total revenue from operations reached INR 326.31 billion. The company announced plans to establish a new Clean Air manufacturing facility in western India with a capital expenditure of approximately INR 450 million to support its total order book, which stands at around INR 1,650 billion.

Arvind Chandra, Whole-Time Director and CEO, Tenneco India, said, "Our strong momentum continued through Q2 and H1 FY’27, driven by overall market growth, market share gains and disciplined execution across the business. During the period, we continued to deepen customer relationships and expand our technology footprint. In ART, we secured multiple platform wins across domestic and international OEMs, entered a new passenger vehicle whitespace, expanded engagement with leading OEMs, and advanced our portfolio through successful commercialization and localization initiatives. In CA and PT, we strengthened our order pipeline through key wins across commercial vehicle, CNG, and spark plug applications."

"Our growing competitive strength is reflected in continued order book providing revenue visibility exceeding 100% of our FY’30 target revenues, underpinning a healthy double-digit CAGR trajectory. To support future growth, we continue to invest in capacity expansion, localization, and innovation, including a new West India Clean Air manufacturing facility. Supported by a robust order book, increasing domestic and export penetration, technology-led customer wins, and strategic investments, we remain well positioned to sustain above-market growth and drive superior shareholder returns over the long term," added Chandra.

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SMK Helmets is marking its international expansion at EICMA 2026, supported by distribution operations across more than 70 countries alongside dedicated regional headquarters in Europe and the United States.

The company highlighted its European division, SMK Europe, established in Reggio Emilia, Italy, in May 2026 under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Matteo Schieppati, alongside its North American arm, Bikerz US, based in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

At the event, SMK unveiled two racing helmets, the Stratos and the Allterra Carbon, alongside Konnect, its first in-house Bluetooth communication system and Cygnus, its first flip-back helmet model.

Matteo Schieppati, CEO, SMK Helmets Europe, said, "The establishment of SMK HELMETS EUROPE is a significant move to strengthen our global presence. This strategic expansion is designed to provide dedicated commercial and logistical support to dealers and distributors across Europe, while establishing a permanent footprint in the region to optimise product and communication strategies. The new European division will serve as a hub for accelerating regional growth, ensuring streamlined supply chain operations, and delivering enhanced customer service to the company's growing network of partners. Europe is a highly demanding market with a deep appreciation for premium quality and uncompromised safety standards. This footprint allows us to align our product innovation and marketing strategies directly with the expectations of European consumers. With this expansion, SMK reinforces its commitment to global excellence, bringing its innovative helmet technology and manufacturing expertise closer to one of the world's most dynamic motorcycling communities."

Shilpa Arora, Global Head of Sales, SMK Helmets, said, "SMK is gaining market share in every market in which it operates, and riders are starting to link our name with safety, excellence and distinctive design. That doesn't happen alone. Our distributors, dealers, riders and teams are one SMK family, and with our own presence in Europe and the US, we are closer to that family than ever. What we're showing at EICMA is just the beginning."

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