Segula in Talks to Buy Opel R&D Operations

Paris-based engineering group Segula Technologies SA is in advanced talks to buy the Opel engineering center in Russelsheim, Germany, from PSA Group.

The proposed acquisition would include about 2,000 workers currently employed at the site, according to the companies. Segula says it will guarantee current jobs until at least 2023.

Under Segula, Russelsheim would continue to provide engineering and r&d support to PSA/Opel. The company also aims to expand the center’s customer base to other industries, including rail and energy.

PSA acquired the Russelsheim facility as part of its $2.6 billion purchase of Opel from General Motors Co. in 2017. The campus provided powertrain and complete vehicle development and testing services for Opel, Vauxhall and Buick in Europe.

Development work in Russelsheim has decreased dramatically since the acquisition. The facility no longer supports GM, and much of the Opel work has been absorbed by PSA as future models between the brands are expected to share platforms and parts.

Segula, which was formed in 1985, has 11,000 employees in 140 locations in 28 countries. The company has made several acquisitions and expanded its global operations over the last two years, including several automotive-related deals.

Earlier this summer the company purchased Activetech, a plastics processing company for interior and electronic components. Other recent investments and partnerships include deals with Applied Technology Integration, Eicher Engineering Solutions, EK Design, ESG Mobility and Technicon Design.