KBC Private Equity takes stake in Czech Tatra

BRUSSELS, Oct 4 (Reuters) - KBC Private Equity <KBKBt.BR>, together with three private investors, has acquired an 80.5 percent stake in Czech truck manufacturer Tatra from U.S-based Terex Corp <TEX.N> for around $26.2 million.

The private equity company of the KBC group said in a statement on Wednesday that the transaction was its fifth in central Europe, confirming its commitment to the region.

Tatra produced over 1,300 vehicles and generated turnover of 180 million euros ($228.4 million) in 2005.

"We believe that Tatra is in a good position to extend its product range and to enter new markets by leveraging its strong brand," Floris Vansina, managing director of KBC Private Equity, said. ((Brussels newsroom; editing by Paul Bolding; +32 2 287 6810, fax +32 2 230 7710)) ($1=.7882 Euro)

Keywords: FINANCIAL KBC