In a bold step toward global expansion, American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings Inc. on Wednesday announced that its shareholders have officially greenlit the $1.55 billion cash-and-stock acquisition of U.K. automotive engineering powerhouse Dowlais Group PLC. The vote marks a critical milestone in a transatlantic merger expected to reshape the future of powertrain technology.
The Detroit-based drivetrain giant, listed on the New York Stock Exchange, disclosed that all proposals tied to the acquisition passed during a shareholder meeting held Tuesday. Though further details were withheld, the approval moves the deal closer to the finish line—pending a vote by Dowlais shareholders set for July 22.
Strategic Merger Fueled by Global Reach and Tech Synergy
Originally announced in January, the merger is structured as a court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement under Part 26 of the U.K.’s Companies Act, with completion anticipated in the final quarter of 2025.
This acquisition aims to unite two formidable players in the automotive supply chain, combining their strengths across internal combustion, hybrid, and electric powertrain systems. The resulting entity is expected to clock $12 billion in annual revenue, backed by an expanded geographic footprint and a multi-segment market reach.
“This is more than just a merger—this is a redefinition of American Axle’s international ambitions,” said a source familiar with the matter.
