Stamford's HARMAN International Announces $1.8 Billion Automotive Tech Acquisition
The Samsung subsidiary headquartered on Atlantic Street will acquire ZF Group's advanced driver assistance systems business, adding 3,750 employees and expanding its automotive technology footprint.
HARMAN International, the Stamford-based audio and automotive technology company, announced a definitive agreement to acquire the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems business of German company ZF Group for approximately $1.8 billion, marking one of the largest corporate deals involving a Connecticut headquarters in recent years.
The acquisition, announced Monday, will bring smart cameras, radars, automotive compute solutions, and ADAS software functions under HARMAN’s expanding automotive technology umbrella. Approximately 3,750 ZF employees across Europe, the Americas, and Asia are expected to transition to HARMAN when the deal closes in the second half of 2026.
“This acquisition positions HARMAN at the forefront of the software-defined vehicle revolution,” said HARMAN CEO Michael Mauser from the company’s offices at 400 Atlantic Street in Stamford’s South End. “We’re combining ZF’s ADAS expertise with our digital cockpit leadership to create comprehensive solutions for automakers worldwide.”
HARMAN, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics since 2017, has grown its automotive and audio business from $7 billion to more than $11 billion under Samsung’s ownership. The company’s Connecticut headquarters houses executive leadership and corporate functions while operations span facilities globally.
The deal represents a strategic pivot by ZF Group, which is reducing debt by divesting non-core businesses. The German supplier has faced pressure from the industry’s transition to electric vehicles and the shifting technology demands of modern automobiles.
“With HARMAN, we have found the ideal partner to fully unlock the growth and innovation potential of our ADAS business,” said ZF Group CEO Mathias Miedreich. “This deal allows us to focus resources on the core technologies where ZF is a global leader.”
The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals in multiple jurisdictions given the global footprints of both companies. Analysts expect scrutiny focused on competition in the automotive supplier market rather than national security concerns.
Fairfield County has emerged as a hub for corporate headquarters, particularly for companies with global operations seeking proximity to New York while avoiding Manhattan’s costs. HARMAN’s presence brings significant professional employment to downtown Stamford’s office district.
The automotive technology sector has seen intense deal activity as traditional suppliers race to develop capabilities in software, sensors, and connectivity. HARMAN’s acquisition positions it to offer automakers integrated solutions spanning entertainment, safety, and autonomous driving features.
No changes to HARMAN’s Stamford operations were announced in connection with the deal.