Traton SE, one of the world‘s largest commercial vehicle manufacturers, and leading US truck maker Navistar International Corporation, have entered into a definitive merger agreement pursuant to which Traton will become the owner of all of the outstanding common shares of Navistar not already owned by Traton. 

Traton currently owns 16.7% of the outstanding shares of common stock of Navistar. The sources of funding for the cash acquisition of the outstanding Navistar shares includes fully committed financing by Volkswagen Group for the equity purchase price of about US$3.7 billion (NZ$5.41 billion).

The transaction is targeted to close in mid-2021, and is subject to Navistar shareholder approval, customary closing conditions, as well as regulatory approvals.

Since March 2017, Traton and Navistar have benefitted from a strategic alliance that has delivered significant value to both companies through increased purchasing scale and the integration of new technologies. This transaction builds on that success by combining Traton‘s strong position in Europe and substantial presence in South America with Navistar‘s complementary footprint in North America to create a global company well positioned to benefit from enhanced brand performance, increased innovation and industry-leading capabilities.

“The announcement accelerates our Global Champion Strategy by expanding our reach across key truck markets worldwide, including scale and capabilities to deliver cutting-edge products, technologies and services to our customers,” said Traton CEO Matthias Gru¨ndler. “Together, we will have an enhanced ability to meet the demands of new regulations and rapidly developing technologies in connectivity, propulsion and autonomous driving for customers around the world. 

“Navistar has been a valuable partner, and we are confident this combination will deliver compelling strategic and financial benefits, create enhanced opportunities for both Navistar and Traton, and best position us to drive sustained value in the evolving global commercial vehicle industry.”

Navistar president and CEO Persio Lisboa said the transaction builds upon the highly collaborative and successful strategic alliance and further enhances the growth trajectory of the combined company, while delivering immediate and substantial value to shareholders.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the Traton team to create opportunities for our employees and provide an outstanding experience for our customers and dealers through best-in-class products, services and technologies.”

Gunnar Kilian, member of the board of management of Volkswagen AG and responsible for the Truck & Bus division, said Volkswagen is Traton‘s biggest shareholder.

“The agreement is an important milestone for Volkswagen because it underpins our strong strategic commitment to continue driving growth also during the ongoing challenging economic climate. The acquisition of Navistar will significantly leverage Traton‘s positioning in North America, one of the biggest and most profitable markets for heavy trucks. Together, the companies can enhance scale and reach in key markets as well as create further synergies.”