In a significant move to secure the future of mobility in Ferentino, Valeo and Tecnobus have signed a Letter of Intent on November 6th, 2023 to repurpose Valeo’s existing site into a manufacturing hub for electric minibuses. This strategic partnership marks a new chapter for both companies, leveraging their respective expertise to drive innovation and sustainability in the transportation sector.
Valeo, a global leader in automotive technology, has been operating in Ferentino since 1974, specialising in thermal management systems for vehicles. With the rapid shift towards electric vehicles, Valeo has sought opportunities to preserve the site’s legacy and its skilled workforce.
Tecnobus, an established Italian manufacturer of electric minibuses, recognised the potential of Valeo’s Ferentino site to support its ambitious growth plans. The company is poised to take over the facility before the end of the year, aiming to capitalise on the existing infrastructure and the expertise of Valeo’s 55-strong team, all of whom will be offered positions. This acquisition forms part of Tecnobus’s broader investment plan of EUR 30 million, which includes further development of the facilities and the recruitment of over 100 additional employees.
Commenting on the partnership, Maurizio Martinelli, Valeo Group President Italy, stated, “The automotive industry is undergoing an unprecedented transformation, driven by the electrification, safety, and sustainability of vehicles. Valeo is proactively adapting to this shift by developing and industrialising new technologies and seeking opportunities to leverage the expertise cultivated over decades at our sites. The takeover by Tecnobus presents an excellent opportunity to safeguard the future of the Ferentino site and its people, while contributing their expertise to the advancement of electric mobility, not only in Italy but across Europe. Valeo remains committed to developing technologies for affordable and sustainable mobility, and we look forward to continuing our contributions to the Italian ecosystem through our other sites in the country.”
Paolo Marini, CEO of Tecnobus, added, “Tecnobus holds the distinction of being one of the world’s oldest manufacturers of electric minibuses. Despite a temporary pause in production, Tecnobus has successfully supplied electric minibuses to 47 major cities worldwide, establishing itself as a market leader. With this acquisition, our objective is to reclaim that leadership position by the end of 2021. As Tecnobus expands and demand for our products surges, we are immensely proud to embark on this exciting journey to provide solutions for more sustainable collective mobility through our electric technologies. By harnessing the skills and heritage established by Valeo, we eagerly anticipate welcoming the new workforce and preparing to commence production at our new Ferentino facility.”
The collaboration between Valeo and Tecnobus marks a pivotal step in revitalising the Ferentino site and transforming it into a hub for sustainable transportation solutions.