Wagner Electric
| Company type | Public |
|---|---|
| Industry | Electrical equipment manufacturing |
| Founded | 1891 |
| Founder | Herbert Appleton Wagner, Ferdinand Schwedtmann |
| Fate | Merged into Studebaker-Worthington in 1967 |
Key people | Herbert Appleton Wagner, Ferdinand Schwedtmann |
| Products | Electric motors, starters, electric lighting, automotive headlamp bulbs, brake components and systems, power transformers |
| Parent | DRiV Incorporated (current owner) |
Wagner Electric Corporation was established in 1891 by Herbert Appleton Wagner and Ferdinand Schwedtmann as a manufacturer specializing in electrical equipment. Beginning in 1909, the company expanded its offerings to include electric motors, starters for early automobiles, electric lighting, and automotive headlamp bulbs.
Prior to its merger, Wagner Electric consisted of three primary divisions: an automotive segment focused on producing brake components and systems for both cars and trucks; a motor segment dedicated to manufacturing electric motors of various sizes; and a transformer segment that produced small to medium-sized power transformers, including liquid-filled distribution transformers. This transformer segment was ultimately integrated into Cooper Power Systems.
In 1967, Wagner Electric joined forces with Studebaker and Worthington Corporation to create Studebaker-Worthington, a company with diversified manufacturing interests. This merger brought together Studebaker's Onan generator line and STP engine additives, Wagner's automotive brake and electrical parts, as well as Worthington's construction machinery, valves, and power generation businesses.
Wagner brands today
Currently, Wagner operates under the ownership of DRiV Incorporated. Within Wagner Lighting Products, notable brands include TruView, BriteLite, HalogenGold, and LazerBlue. Additionally, through Wagner Brake Products, the company manufactures brake pads and brake rotors.