Seating systems developer Lear Corporation has completed the acquisition of Kongsberg Automotive’s Interior Comfort Systems (ICS) business unit. The acquisition will, Lear hopes, advance its seat component capabilities and expand product offerings in increasingly popular thermal and comfort seating solutions, such as seat heating and ventilation in addition to massage and lumbar support.
“Lear is leading an era of unprecedented evolution and growth in automotive seating innovation. As auto makers look for greater product differentiation, increased efficiency and improved performance – especially in the luxury, SUV and electric vehicle segments – Lear is offering seating with more integrated thermal and premium features,” said Ray Scott, Lear president and CEO. “We are excited to welcome the ICS team to Lear. With a well-earned reputation for talent and experience, the team is a valuable addition to the Lear family.”
Lear acquired the ICS business unit for €175m (US$198m), on a cash and debt-free basis, funded through debt financing completed in fourth quarter 2021. The ICS business unit brings operational leadership personnel and more than 3,800 employees working in four production facilities and four technical centers on three continents. It is expected to generate revenue of approximately US$200m this year.
“Personal transportation is continuing to change with advancing electric vehicle and autonomous driving technologies, and consumers placing a higher emphasis on interior comfort. A perfect complement to our product portfolio, the strategic acquisition of ICS will help us bring new technologies and a complete suite of thermal comfort systems to our customers, allowing us to drive emerging market trends and capture more content per vehicle,” added Frank Orsini, Lear EVP and president, seating.
