M&A on the move: what consolidation in e-mobility means for strategic buyers and investors

The global e-mobility ecosystem is shifting gears. From electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to fleet management platforms, battery tech, and clean last-mile logistics, consolidation is accelerating across the value chain. For US companies – particularly strategic buyers, private equity firms, and mobility scale-ups – this opens the door to transformative opportunities in Europe.

Driven by regulation, investment, and consumer demand, e-mobility has evolved beyond the startup phase. European markets – especially Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK – have created fertile ground for mature mobility solutions thanks to ambitious zero-emission goals and government-backed incentives. As a result, many UK and EU-based innovators have become attractive acquisition targets for US-based investors and corporates seeking advanced tech, talent, and market share.

Why now?

While deal volume in the tech sector generally slowed in 2024, merger and acquisition (M&A) in e-mobility has remained comparatively resilient. This is partly due to infrastructure-heavy players needing scale and capital and partly because larger platforms are strategically acquiring to build out integrated offerings.

For example, mobility companies are buying up smaller firms to expand their charging footprints, broaden capabilities across vehicle types, or access energy storage technologies. Others are targeting software platforms that enable real-time fleet optimization, route planning, or grid integration – assets critical to long-term competitiveness.

Legal themes to watch

There are recurring themes for US companies navigating overseas M&A in the mobility sector. These include:

• Cross-border structuring. Acquiring a European target involves navigating local regulations, labor law nuances, and jurisdiction-specific compliance frameworks. It's crucial to get the structure right at the outset.
• IP and data. As software and connectivity become core to mobility offerings, careful diligence around intellectual property ownership and data privacy (especially under the General Data Protection Regulation) is essential.
• Antitrust and foreign investment review. Governments are paying closer attention to deals that impact critical infrastructure, energy systems, or sensitive data – all of which can be touchpoints in mobility deals.
• Sustainability and ESG. Environmental compliance, supply chain transparency, and green taxonomies are now material deal considerations – especially in Europe.

Osborne Clarke comment

As the sector matures and global players jockey for position, thoughtful consolidation will be a defining strategy. Whether you're a buyer, investor, or scaling innovator, the road ahead in e-mobility is paved with opportunity.

Our international e-mobility team brings together lawyers across energy transition, infrastructure, technology, and transportation. We support clients across the mobility lifecycle from early investment and product rollout to M&A and international expansion. Our deep bench in Europe and US-based team uniquely position us to guide American clients through complex, multi-jurisdictional deals with confidence. Explore our e-mobility offering or reach out to discuss how we can help.