Hella is a German automotive technology brand recognised globally for its vehicle lighting systems, automotive electronics, sensors and aftermarket parts. Established on June 11, 1899, by Sally Windmüller in Lippstadt, Germany, the company has evolved from a small lamp manufacturer into one of the world’s leading automotive suppliers. Since 2022, Hella has operated under the FORVIA umbrella following the acquisition of a majority stake by Faurecia (now FORVIA), whilst continuing to trade under its established brand name.1

As of 2025, Hella employs approximately 34,000 people and operates more than 125 locations across roughly 35 countries. The company generates annual revenue of around €8 billion and remains listed as a public company within the FORVIA group structure.

The company was founded in 1899 as Westfälische Metall-Industrie Aktien-Gesellschaft (WMI), initially manufacturing lamps, lanterns and horns for bicycles, carriages and early automobiles.

Key milestones

• 1908: Introduced the “System Hella” acetylene headlamp; the name “HELLA” first appeared as a product trademark.
• 1923: The Hueck family became the majority owner, playing a significant role in business expansion.
• 1965: Entered the automotive electronics sector with one of the industry’s first fully electronic flasher units.
• 1986: HELLA was officially incorporated into the company’s legal name.
• 2013: Launched the world’s first LED Matrix lighting technology for series production.
• 2014: Listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.
• 2020: Expanded capabilities into radar sensors and automated driving technologies.
• 2022: Became part of the FORVIA Group after Faurecia acquired a majority stake.
• 2024: Celebrated its 125th anniversary.2

Hella develops technologies for both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and the global aftermarket.

Automotive Lighting

The brand is internationally recognised for advanced lighting systems designed to enhance driver visibility, vehicle safety, energy efficiency and styling. Key products include:

• LED headlights
• Matrix LED headlights
• Laser lighting technologies
• Rear combination lamps
• Interior ambient lighting
• Adaptive lighting systems
• Fog lamps
• Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
• Auxiliary driving lights

Automotive Electronics

Hella is a major supplier of electronic systems supporting modern technologies such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid vehicles and autonomous driving. Product lines include:3

• Radar sensors
• Battery management systems
• Body control modules
• Power electronics
• Steering electronics
• Vehicle access systems
• Climate control electronics
• Intelligent sensors
• DC/DC converters
• Driver assistance electronics

Aftermarket Products

For repair shops and consumers, Hella supplies replacement parts often manufactured to original equipment (OE) standards. These include:

• Headlights and tail lights
• Signal lights
• Relays and switches
• Sensors
• Wiper blades
• Ignition products and batteries
• Air horns
• Diagnostic equipment and workshop tools

Special Applications

Beyond passenger vehicles, Hella develops lighting and electronics for agricultural machinery, construction equipment, emergency vehicles, marine applications, municipal vehicles, commercial trucks and off-road vehicles.

Operations are organised into three primary business groups:4

• Lighting: Develops advanced automotive lighting technologies.
• Electronics: Designs electronic components and systems for modern vehicles.
• Lifecycle Solutions: Provides aftermarket parts, workshop equipment and products for special-purpose vehicles.

Hella invests hundreds of millions of euros annually in research and development. Key innovation areas include Matrix LED technology, digital headlights, radar systems, energy management, smart sensors, vehicle electrification, intelligent lighting and autonomous driving technologies.

Hella supplies components directly to numerous major automakers. While the specific customer list varies by product and region, partners have included BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Ford, Toyota, Hyundai and Stellantis.

Hella maintains operations across Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Australia and Africa. Its global network comprises manufacturing plants, research centres, engineering facilities, sales offices and logistics centres, totalling more than 125 locations worldwide.

The company is consistently ranked among the world’s leading automotive suppliers and is widely recognised for German engineering, high-quality manufacturing, reliable OEM components, advanced lighting technology, long product lifespan and strong innovation in automotive electronics.5

Hella emphasises core values including innovation, quality, reliability, sustainability, customer partnership, safety and engineering excellence.

To support the automotive industry’s transition toward cleaner transportation, Hella invests in energy-efficient manufacturing, electrification technologies, sustainable production, reduced carbon emissions, smart mobility solutions and circular economy initiatives.

1. Company | FORVIA HELLA
2. Hella (company
3. Chronicle & Values | HELLA
4. HELLA at a Glance | HELLA
5. Innovation meets tradition | HELLA