Global auto supplier invests in startup

Global auto supplier invests in startup

Photo via alsentis.com

A global automotive equipment supplier has invested in a startup in the region.

Nanterre, France-based Faurecia said this month it invested in Holland-based startup AlSentis, which makes touch technologies for human-machine interfaces, or HMI.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

David Weill, VP of marketing and business development of Faurecia Interiors, said the investment will help Faurecia with smart surfaces development for connected vehicles.

“Combined with our recent investments in Canatu and Tactotek, we have now completed a unique ecosystem enabling us to master the full smart surfaces value chain,” Weill said. “By integrating different technologies, we are now capable of creating a new HMI experience in vehicle interiors.”

Tactotek provides solutions for plastronic technologies and processes, while Canatu specializes in touch films.

AlSentis concentrates on capacitive sensor technology and HMI, allowing a reliable “haptic experience” — which re-creates the sense of touch by applying forces, vibrations or motions to the user — and incorporating new materials and complex geometries.

AlSentis solutions are already in production for the automotive industry.

Justin Teitt, CEO of AlSentis, said his company is pleased with the investment.

“We are very excited to be partnering with Faurecia as we explore this next phase of smart and connected cars,” Teitt said. “We will work together to unlock the potential for HMI in automobiles.”

The investment in AlSentis was made through Faurecia Ventures, which identifies, incubates and invests in early stage innovations to create long-term value and strategic advantage for Faurecia.

Faurecia

Founded in 1997, Faurecia focuses on automotive seating, interior systems and clean mobility and has 330 sites, including 30 automotive technology research and development centers in 34 countries.  

It supplies automakers with technology for connectivity and autonomous driving and reducing emissions, while improving fuel economy.

In 2016, the company posted sales of €18.7 billion, or $19.8 billion, and had a workforce of 100,000 people. Faurecia is listed on the NYSE Euronext Paris stock exchange.

AlSentis

Founded in 2008 by David Caldwell in Holland, AlSentis produces touch technologies for human-machine interfaces that work “even in the harshest environments.”

The company leadership has more than 30 years of experience designing touch panels in appliance, automotive, consumer and industrial markets.