The second quarter of 2026 reflected more selective capital allocation, with investors backing differentiated technology and scalable business models. The Q2 2026 edition of the Automotive Dealtracker analyses mergers and acquisitions, private equity and public market activity, highlighting key deal trends across mobility platforms, automotive technology and the EV ecosystem.

Key insights from the Automotive Dealtracker Q2 2026

Q2 2026 witnessed the lowest quarterly volumes since Q2 2023, the only quarter to witness muted M&A activity in the Auto sector. While volumes declined, overall deal values saw a marginal 4% decrease compared to the previous quarter, largely due to capital being concentrated in a few high-value transactions across mobility platforms, automotive technology, and select public market fundraises.

M&A activity remained selective, with deal values largely concentrated in a single marquee, technology-led transaction, resulting in a sharp increase in average deal size from USD 6 million to USD 28 million quarter-on-quarter. This reflects rising demand for capabilities in software, cybersecurity and specialised mobility solutions. However, a significant proportion of transactions, around 60%, had undisclosed values.

Q2 2026 witnessed the lowest quarterly PE volumes since Q1 2021 while values declined 36% over previous quarter. PE activity continued to be led by early-stage and growth investments, with a large proportion of deals in seed, Series A and Series B stages, indicating ongoing capital deployment towards innovation and ecosystem development.

Public market activity rebounded in Q2 2026 following a completely muted Q1 through two EV-focused QIPs - Ather Energy (USD 156 million) and Ola Electric (USD 81 million) highlighting sustained investor appetite for established electric mobility players, reflecting confidence in the sector's growth trajectory and long-term electrification opportunity.

While deal activity slowed during the quarter, investment remained focused on businesses driving the future of mobility. We are seeing continued interest in EVs, mobility platforms and automotive technologies, with investors becoming more selective and backing companies that have demonstrated scale, differentiated capabilities and a clear growth path. As the sector evolves, technology-led investments are expected to continue shaping deal activity.
Saket Mehra Partner and Auto & EV Industry Leader, Grant Thornton Bharat
Automotive Dealtracker: Q2 2026
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Automotive Dealtracker: Q2 2026

Providing M&A and PE deal insights