Thundersoft Acquires Rightware in a Landmark €64 Million Deal

Thundersoft, a Chinese tech company specializing in operating systems and smart devices, has acquired Finnish automotive user interface software provider Rightware for €64 million. This move aims to foster growth in both companies and solidify their standings in the burgeoning automotive software market, while also developing more comprehensive products for customers.

Rightware, which will continue to operate as an independent entity with its current management team, will focus on investing in its automotive business and presence in Finland. The deal is expected to be finalized by early 2017.

Established in 2009, Rightware’s primary offering, Kanzi, is already utilized by over 20 global automotive brands. Kanzi allows the creation of digital instrument clusters and infotainment systems that enhance car brands and improve the driving experience.

Thundersoft, founded in 2008 and traded on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, offers operating systems for mobile, automotive, and IoT markets worldwide. This acquisition marks a new chapter for Rightware, bolstering its position in the global automotive software and connected car sector.

Jonas Geust, CEO of Rightware, expects Kanzi to power over 25 million cars by 2022. He believes that partnering with Thundersoft will expand their reach and customer support. Geust emphasizes that Rightware prides itself on creating software that enriches the driving experience for millions worldwide and aims to establish Kanzi as the standard in the industry.

The acquisition also broadens Rightware’s influence in the Asian automotive market, complementing its strong presence in Europe and America. Geust views Thundersoft as an ideal match and believes the investment demonstrates Finland’s ability to produce unique technology solutions for the global market and attract international investments.

This deal is Thundersoft’s first overseas acquisition, marking its entry into the European market and enhancing its platform technology and services in the automotive industry. According to Larry Geng, CEO of Thundersoft, the partnership with Rightware will integrate their advanced user experience design technology into more connected cars, providing greater value to customers and driving innovation in the automotive industry.

Rightware will maintain its brand, products, and automotive focus while its current management will stay on board and re-invest in the company. The firm plans to hire 20 new experts within a year, half of whom will be recruited in Finland.

Rightware’s shareholders include Finnish Industry Investment, Inventure Fund Ky, Nexit Ventures, the current management, and company founders. The company anticipates a turnover of about €7 million for 2016, expecting to reach profitability by year-end.