Ryan FowlerMAN Truck & Bus has announced a strategic partnership with TUM Venture Labs, unveiled at the “Ultimate European Start-up Event” during IAA Mobility at Munich’s Marienplatz.
The cooperation is aimed at expanding innovation in mobility through collaboration between the commercial vehicle manufacturer, the Technical University of Munich and deep tech start-ups.
The partnership is also intended to reinforce Munich’s position as a leading hub for technology and innovation.
MAN has already worked with TUM on major research collaborations, including the ATLAS-L4 project on autonomous trucks and the NEFTON charging infrastructure project for heavy commercial vehicles.
Through the agreement, MAN Truck & Bus gains access to Europe’s largest deep tech start-up ecosystem, enabling the early identification of technological trends and their integration into products and services.
The collaboration is also expected to accelerate process innovations in AI and robotics, support cultural change within the company and enhance its appeal as an employer for young talent.
Dr Frederik Zohm, executive board member for research and development at MAN Truck & Bus, said: “We have high hopes for this partnership. Networking between industrial companies, start-ups and universities is crucial to remaining competitive in the international innovation arena. We have now set the course and are looking forward to the upcoming joint projects with TUM Venture Labs with great confidence and curiosity.”
Dr Philipp Gerbert, managing director of TUM Venture Labs, said: “As one of Europe’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, MAN is an ideal partner for our start-up teams. They can expand their network and learn from an established and highly successful company.”
