Curtiss-Wright has bought electric vehicle controller and drive manufacturer PG Drives Technology (PGDT) for an undisclosed sum.

PGDT, whose controllers and drives are used in a wide variety of electric-powered industrial and medical vehicles, will operate in the Curtiss-Wright Controls Industrial division.

"PGDT's advanced control technology is central to Curtiss-Wright's strategy for diversification and expansion into mobility and industrial systems," Hal Chenhall, PGDT managing director, says. "We join the fast-growing industrial division, which includes Penny & Giles. Combined we are leaders in position measurement and control for the world's most demanding industries."

Curtiss-Wright Corp chairman and CEO Martin R Benante says the partnership strengthens and expands his company's existing industrial controls business and provides growth in a new direction, "with a strong presence in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market".

"With almost four decades as a leading supplier of high-end and reliable electric vehicle control systems, PG Drives Technology brings unmatched expertise, experience and long-standing customer relationships to Curtiss-Wright," Benante says.

PGDT control systems are used in electric vehicles including materials-handling vehicles, floor- cleaning machines, powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters serving the industrial and medical markets. The company has a design facility in the UK, a sales and service centre in the USA, sales and technical support offices in Taiwan and China, and manufacturing sites in the UK and China.

Engineering firm Curtiss-Wright has a long tradition of design and manufacturing innovation. It employs about 8,600 people worldwide.