An integration agreement has been concluded with the family shareholders, who hold the remaining shares along with MAHLE, enabling the full integration of the “Thermal Management” business unit, which will trade as MAHLE Behr, into the MAHLE Group.

MAHLE’s acquisition of the majority share in Behr, which was originally planned for early 2013, was delayed as a result of investigation proceedings against manufacturers of thermal systems for automobiles, including Behr, in connection with suspected restrictive business practices.

The move marks the latest stage in a global expansion program that has see MAHLE acquire majority shareholdings in other engine component brands as Glacier Vandervell, Cosworth Technology, Siemens VDO, Clevite and Perfect Circle.