Carlyle is among a handful of investment firms with a focus in the automotive industry and the transportation sector. The firm has a successful record of investing in companies that manufacture components and accessories for the world’s major automakers. Carlyle also has extensive experience with companies that serve the transportation sector either from a manufacturing standpoint or as part of the global transportation network.

Carlyle’s automotive and transportation portfolio includes United Components, a leading global manufacturer of automotive parts for the aftermarket and specialized original equipment channels; Edscha, a leading automotive supplier of hinges, convertible roof systems and driver control systems; Hertz Corporation, which is composed of two businesses: Hertz Rent-A-Car, the largest worldwide general use car rental company and Hertz Equipment Rental Corporation, the third largest equipment rental business in North America; AxleTech International, a leading global supplier of planetary axles, brakes and other drivetrain components for off-highway and specialty vehicles to the commercial and military end markets; and Allison Transmission, the preeminent global designer and manufacturer of automatic transmissions for the medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicle markets.

“Teamwork is critical to Carlyle’s edge and we regularly work with our colleagues in Europe and Asia to share ideas, leads and country-specific industry knowledge. Our strategy includes partnering with industry entrepreneurs to add greater depth to our team and proactively identify investment opportunities,” said Greg Ledford, Carlyle Managing Director and head of the group. “We also have an excellent record of developing joint ventures with strategic partners.”