On May 27, 2025, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the proposed acquisition of 100% shareholding of Dowlais Group plc by American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM). This significant transaction strengthens the global and Indian automotive component manufacturing sector, aligning with India’s push for industrial growth and global competitiveness in the automotive industry.
The approved transaction involves American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM) acquiring the entire issued and to-be-issued ordinary share capital of Dowlais Group plc, granting AAM sole control over the Dowlais Group.
- American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM): Listed on the New York Stock Exchange, AAM is the ultimate parent entity of the AAM group. Globally, it specializes in designing, engineering, and manufacturing driveline transmission components and metal forming technologies for electric, hybrid, and internal combustion vehicles. In India, AAM supplies driveline transmission components and metal automotive components.
- Dowlais Group plc: Listed on the London Stock Exchange, Dowlais Group is the ultimate parent entity of the Dowlais group. It focuses on developing driveline products, producing sintered metal products for automotive and industrial sectors, manufacturing atomized metal powders, and products using additive manufacturing processes. In India, Dowlais supplies driveline transmission components and metal automotive components.
This acquisition consolidates AAM’s position in the automotive component market by integrating Dowlais Group’s expertise in advanced manufacturing processes, enhancing its capabilities in India and globally.
The CCI’s approval ensures that the acquisition complies with India’s competition laws, preventing any adverse impact on market competition. The CCI evaluated the transaction to confirm it does not create monopolistic practices or harm consumers in the automotive component sector. This approval reflects India’s commitment to fostering a competitive business environment while supporting strategic corporate consolidations that drive economic growth.
The acquisition is a milestone for India’s automotive industry, as it strengthens the supply chain for driveline transmission components and metal automotive components. By combining AAM’s global expertise with Dowlais Group’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, the transaction enhances innovation, production efficiency, and export potential. It aligns with India’s Make in India initiative, promoting self-reliance in high-tech manufacturing and positioning India as a key player in the global automotive supply chain.The acquisition is expected to boost India’s manufacturing ecosystem by fostering technological advancements and creating opportunities for job creation and skill development in the automotive sector. It also strengthens India’s position in the global automotive market, as the combined entity can leverage economies of scale to meet the growing demand for electric and hybrid vehicle components. This move supports India’s broader economic goals of achieving industrial competitiveness and export-led growth.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | CCI Approval for Acquisition of Dowlais Group by AAM |
| Date | May 27, 2025 |
| Acquirer | American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM) |
| Target | Dowlais Group plc |
| Transaction | 100% shareholding acquisition of Dowlais Group by AAM |
| Business Focus | Driveline transmission components, metal automotive components, sintered metal products, additive manufacturing |
| Significance | Strengthens India’s automotive sector, aligns with Make in India |