
Blue Bird to Acquire Detroit Chassis Assets, Partner with Ford
Blue Bird Corporation will acquire assets from Detroit Chassis LLC for $7 million and enter a Master Collaboration Agreement with Ford Motor Company. This partnership will see Blue Bird assume responsibility for the design, manufacturing, and sales of the next-generation F-53 and F-59 commercial stripped chassis, utilizing Ford powertrains. The deal, expected to close in Q1 2027, involves an estimated $90 million investment in 2027 and is projected to generate over $600 million in mid-term revenue and 12%+ EBITDA from 10,000+ units annually.
Key Highlights
- Blue Bird to acquire certain assets of Detroit Chassis LLC for $7 million.
- Entered Master Collaboration Agreement with Ford Motor Company for F-53/F-59 stripped chassis.
- Blue Bird will assume design, manufacturing, and sales of next-gen F-53/F-59 chassis with Ford powertrains.
- Asset acquisition closing anticipated in Q1 2027; new production expected to begin early 2028.
- Projected investment of ~$90 million in 2027 (~$40M OpEx, ~$50M CapEx).
- Expected to add 10,000+ units, $600M+ revenue, and 12%+ EBITDA mid-term.
- Collaboration aims to expand Blue Bird's commercial vehicle presence and diversify product portfolio.
Price Impact
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