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| More Than 100 Years Of Experience |
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| Webasto can look back at more than 100 years of history. The rapid changes that have taken place during this period are mirrored in the automotive industry as well as in the supply industry. Companies have increased in size. The onset of globalisation means that markets have become even more complex. As an innovative company Webasto plays a key role in this world of constant change. |
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| 1901 |
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The company is founded under the original name of "Eßlinger Draht- und Eisenwarenfabrik Wilhelm Baier, Eßlingen/Neckar. The company starts out working on sheet metal and makes all kinds of products made by stamping, cutting and bending metal. |
| 1932 |
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Wilhelm Baier designs the first folding roof which is to be opened and closed easily according to weather conditions. The first step towards the automotive industry is made.
In 1935 the second step follows. Wilhelm Baier designs what he called a "vehicle fresh-air heater" for water cooled engines. This heater is later renamed the "Megaphone". |
| 1961 |
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The steel sunroof begins its triumphant progress into all cars and Webasto makes it electrically operated.
In the same year, for the first time, Webasto equips a car with a parking heater. It is a Mercedes Benz 300 SE. |
| 1980 |
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Webasto expands its activities internationally. Production sites in Great Britain, France and Italy are opened. Two years earlier Webasto has established a subsidiary in Japan.
In 1981 Webasto supplies the first modular roof with a glass cover for the Citroen BX. |
| 1992 |
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The production of heating units moves to Neubrandenburg. Two years earlier Webasto has bought the VEB Sirokko from the Treuhand Agency and reorganised the factory. |
| 2000 |
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Webasto takes over all shares in Webasto Sunroofs Inc. (USA) from Magna International.
The production for the first Webasto convertible roof starts in Utting. It is supplied for the Smart. |
| 2003 |
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Presentation of Concept Car Welcome 2 at the IAA; purchase of Genion Fahrzeugtechnik GmbH and merger with HS Produkts into HS Genion GmbH (subsidiary of Webasto AG) |
| 2005 |
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Presentation of Concept Car Hattrick at the IAA; sale of the bus division to financial investors; for the first time turnover exceeds 1.5 billion euros |
| 2008 |
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Opening of the new central building of Webasto's business unit Global Comfort Solutions (GCS) in Gilching. |
| 1908 |
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The company moves to Stockdorf near Munich. At that time the bicycle side of the business begins to develop rapidly. Accessories like wheel rims, mudguards and wire bracing are now also part of the company's product range. |
| 1952 |
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Webasto develops the first heating units for buses and engine-independent vehicle heating systems.
Four years later the company produces the first steel sunroof on the market. |
| 1972 |
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The Ford Granada has the first tilt and slide sunroof, of course made by Webasto. Parking heaters can now be pre-fitted in passenger vehicles.
In 1974, Webasto establishes its first foreign subsidiary in the USA. |
| 1986 |
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The Webasto AG Fahrzeugtechnik is founded and Werner Baier becomes chairman of the board.
Webasto parking heaters can now be remote-controlled. |
| 1999 |
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Webasto introduces the first parking air-conditioning for trucks. |
| 2001 |
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Webasto celebrates its centenary. |
| 2004 |
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Intensification of the engagement in Asia; joint-venture with Sumi Motherson Group to tap the Indian market |
| 2007 |
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Building of the GCS headquarters in Gilching; expansion in China and Romania |
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