Peugeot takes majority ownership of DAB Motors
French motorcycle manufacturers DAB Motors and Peugeot Motocycles have announced an industrial strategic partnership that will create a "unique offering in the electric motorcycle market".
As part of this collaboration, Peugeot Motocycles has made a substantial new investment in DAB Motors, and now owns the majority stake in the company, to launch the serial production of the highly anticipated Concept-E. Last year, Indian conglomerate Mahindra and Mahindra sold its controlling stake in Peugeot to German private equity investor Mutares SE & Co. KGaA.
Peugeot and DAB have joined forces to leverage their respective strengths, with DAB Motors bringing an "innovative vision in EV design and Peugeot Motocycles contributing its industry expertise and global distribution network. This partnership marks a new chapter in the evolution of the French electric motorcycle industry and promises to deliver Made-in-France cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions to consumers".
Simon Dabadie, CEO and founder of Bayonne, France based DAB Motors, said: "I am thrilled to be partnering with a historical manufacturer such as Peugeot Motocycles. This strategic collaboration will take DAB Motors to the next level. With the support of Peugeot Motocycles, DAB Motors will soon be mass-producing its electric motorcycles and delivering worldwide.”
The plan is for Peugeot Motocycles to enable DAB to scale up launch of its "innovative electric motorcycle" on a large scale, with production based at Peugeot's historical factory in Mandeure (south of Mulhouse, near the Swiss border). The expectation is that this will increase production, improve efficiency and lower costs.
Sebastien Mas, President of Peugeot Motocycles, is quoted as saying: "The primary driving force behind our collaboration lies in the DAB brand promise. We have recognised the necessity of venturing into the electric realm, building upon our legacy of launching motorcycles 125 years ago. Additionally, the essence of both brands is rooted in production in France. We take great pride in manufacturing our premium ranges locally, preserving our strong expertise, and contributing to the growth of the French industry."