Prototyping Suppliers in Germany

Customcells is a German specialist in high-end lithium-ion battery cells, focusing on customized small to mid-scale production. Founded in 2012, Customcells emerged from research at Fraunhofer Institute and has carved out a niche in developing tailor-made cells for demanding applications like aviation (e.g., electric flight), luxury automotive, and defense. The company offers a range of in-house capabilities: from electrode formulation and cell prototyping to series manufacturing of cells with unique formats or chemistries (such as silicon-rich anodes for high energy). Customcells runs two production facilities in Germany (Itzehoe and Tübingen) and is a key partner in Porsche’s Cellforce Group (developing high-performance cells for sports cars). With a highly flexible manufacturing setup, Customcells can iterate designs rapidly and produce batches for qualification and small series. Its commitment to quality and innovation has made it a go-to supplier for projects where standard cells won’t suffice. Customcells’ agile approach supports customers through all stages, accelerating innovation in battery-driven industries.

Lion Smart GmbH is a German developer of battery packs and integration services known for its innovative LIGHT Battery technology. The company designs high-performance lithium-ion battery systems with a modular architecture and sophisticated thermal management, enabling exceptional energy density and fast charging for automotive and motorsport applications. Lion Smart offers engineering services covering the full spectrum of battery development – from system design and prototyping to BMS software, safety validation, and small-series production. Its LIGHT Battery concept, demonstrated in a BMW i3, showcased a pack with significantly increased capacity and reduced weight, underscoring Lion Smart’s cutting-edge approach to cell packaging and cooling. In addition to R&D projects, Lion Smart provides battery testing and consulting services through its TÜV-certified test laboratory. Partnering with OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers, the company brings deep expertise in battery system optimization and integration. With an agile team and a track record of groundbreaking battery prototypes, Lion Smart helps accelerate the implementation of next-generation electric vehicle batteries that deliver higher range and performance.

aft automotive GmbH is an international automotive system supplier based in Greven, Germany, specializing in advanced fluid handling and sealing systems. Founded in 2000, aft automotive has grown to produce a wide array of critical components such as quick connectors for coolant and fuel lines, multi-layer hoses, check valves, and crankcase ventilation systems. Its products are used by major automakers in conventional and electric powertrains to ensure reliable fluid flow and leak-proof connections under harsh conditions. The company prides itself on robust in-house product development: using CAD and simulation, aft designs innovative coupling systems and then validates them through an on-site prototyping and testing lab. In manufacturing, aft automotive utilizes injection molding for high-performance plastics, rubber molding for seals, and automated assembly to combine parts into finished modules. With additional production in the Czech Republic and China, aft can supply customers globally. The company’s commitment to lightweight, easy-to-assemble designs and its strong quality culture have positioned it as a preferred partner for fluid connection solutions that improve efficiency and reduce emissions.

MAT Machining Europe GmbH is a German full-service supplier of automotive powertrain components, specializing in the CNC machining and assembly of truck differential housings. Its Immenhausen plant uses state-of-the-art robotic CNC lines and inspection equipment to produce over 2.2 million powertrain parts annually. As a Tier-1/2 partner to major OEMs, it delivers turnkey machining and assembly solutions for both small and large series, backed by advanced quality systems (ISO 9001, IATF 16949) and lean manufacturing practices. This combination of precision engineering and experience makes it a trusted supplier in the automotive industry.

ACTech produces casting prototypes and small batches for customers from various industries: for the automotive industry and its suppliers, for the aerospace industry, and for machine and plant manufacturers. As one of the leading global rapid prototyping companies, ACTech provides all design and production processes under a single roof for the speedy production of complete casting prototypes. From the 3D data set, ACTech produces complete castings ready for testing and installation. State-of-the-art rapid prototyping processes combined with CNC pattern making and CNC machining achieve extremely fast production of prototypes that, from the very first casting, are comparable to series production. This expertise benefits customers by reducing development time and lowering costs compared to conventional methods, achieving smooth production launches for their products. Today, more than 1,000 companies worldwide utilize ACTech’s unique service.

GROHMANN ALUWORKS is a specialized German manufacturer of high-precision aluminum castings for automotive and industrial applications with over 65 years of experience. Their expertise in low-pressure and gravity die casting technologies enables the production of complex components with exceptional mechanical properties and dimensional accuracy. Operating from a modern facility in Werdohl, they combine traditional German engineering excellence with state-of-the-art production methods and advanced quality control systems. GROHMANNs technical capabilities extend from alloy development to finished component testing, offering customers a complete development partner for aluminum casting projects. Their flexible production capabilities accommodate both small series and high-volume manufacturing requirements, while their engineering team provides comprehensive support from initial concept to series production, making them an ideal partner for demanding automotive applications.

A.+E. Keller is a German cold-forging specialist with over a century of experience in producing high-strength metal components. Founded in 1919, this family-owned Tier‑2 supplier has evolved into a leader in cold-forming technology, manufacturing precision parts such as hollow bolts, bushings, and special fasteners for the automotive industry. Keller’s in-house tool design and modern forging presses enable cost-effective mass production and rapid prototyping of custom metal parts. With global partnerships (including joint ventures in China and India), A.+E. Keller combines German engineering quality with international reach to serve automotive OEMs and Tier‑1 suppliers with reliable, lightweight, and cost-optimized metal components.

Handtmann Group is a diversified family-owned enterprise with over 145 years of history specializing in light metal casting, food processing equipment, and engineering systems. Their Light Metal Casting division is a global leader in aluminum die casting for automotive applications, producing complex, thin-walled components that contribute to vehicle weight reduction and performance enhancement. Handtmanns comprehensive capabilities include part design, process development, die casting, machining, and assembly delivered from advanced manufacturing facilities in Germany, China, and the US. Their technical expertise in high-vacuum die casting enables the production of structural components and safety-critical parts with exceptional integrity and mechanical properties. Handtmanns commitment to innovation, quality, and long-term partnerships has established them as a preferred development partner for automotive OEMs seeking sophisticated lightweight solutions that meet increasingly stringent performance and sustainability requirements.