BMW focuses on hydrogen! Takeover (fantasy) at BYD, Nel and dynaCERT

dynaCERT: Takeover fantasy thanks to new CEO?

Will Bernd Krüper ensure a golden autumn with takeover fantasies at dynaCERT? The German executive has been on board as President and Director at the Canadian specialist for reducing fuel consumption and emissions in heavy commercial vehicles for a few weeks now and is to be heavily involved both operationally and strategically. So far, dynaCERT has been particularly successful with its HydraGEN™ technology with companies from the mining, oil, and gas industries on both American continents. There is a good chance that Krüper will achieve a breakthrough in Europe. After all, the manager is likely to have an excellent network in the industry thanks to his previous positions at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, Tognum, MTU, and Daimler, among others. He is also likely to have taken a very close look at dynaCERT's technology before giving up his post as CEO at Hatz.

Commenting on his appointment at dynaCERT, Krüper said: "I am excited about dynaCERT's mission and its continued progress in hydrogen technology. With additional key initiatives planned over the coming months and years, I look forward to leading and driving dynaCERT's influence and positive impact in the hydrogen market." The first official act at the beginning of August caused quite a stir. There was an informal discussion with Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, about hydrogen and, of course, the benefits of HydraGEN™. Further impetus is likely to follow in the coming months. In addition to orders from Europe, sales cooperations - such as those already successfully in place in North and South America - would also help dynaCERT in Europe and end the consolidation of the share. A takeover or investment by a commercial vehicle manufacturer or major supplier also appears possible.

Nel: Takeover candidate or market performer?

Since Nel announced its partnership with Reliance Industries a few months ago, takeover rumors have been circulating. So far, the Norwegian company's collaboration with India's largest private company involves sales in the world's most populous country. Additionally, Reliance plans to use Nel's electrolysers for hydrogen production on a global scale. If hydrogen finally achieves a breakthrough, Reliance would be in a prime position for a takeover.

However, the share is currently out of steam. Following the half-year figures and the spin-off of the refueling business, Bernstein Research recently reiterated its "Market Perform" rating for the Nel share. The target price is NOK 7.25. Within the peer group, analysts currently see greater upside potential in Thyssenkrupp Nucera and ITM Power.

BYD takes distribution in Germany into its own hands

BYD is certainly not an acquisition target - in fact, quite the opposite. In Germany, the Chinese company is now acquiring a distribution partner. Although BYD set a new sales record in August with 370,854 vehicles sold worldwide, the Company lags significantly in new registrations in Germany. As of July, BYD had only sold 1,432 electric vehicles in Germany in 2024. The development in Europe's largest market does not appear satisfactory for BYD, hence the takeover. The Company aims to sell 120,000 electric vehicles in Germany by 2026, but this goal currently seems far from achievable.

Therefore, BYD is increasingly taking control of distribution and spare parts supply for the German market. The Company has acquired Hedin Electric Mobility GmbH, which has sales outlets in Stuttgart and Frankfurt.

BYD manager Stella Li: "It is important for BYD to maintain strong local partnerships. The partnership agreement with the German dealers will, therefore, be continued. Together with the retail partners, BYD Automotive GmbH will continue to expand the excellent customer service and warranty support in Germany."

BYD seems to be anything but satisfied with the sales figures in Germany, but whether the acquisition will bring about a turnaround remains to be seen next year. The new President at dynaCERT has created a spirit of optimism. If the business in Europe gains traction in the coming months - perhaps with a well-known cooperation partner - the share could develop into a high-flyer. The Nel share currently does not present a compelling buying opportunity.