Brabus GmbH was founded in 1977 by Bodo Buschmann and Klaus Brackmann in West Germany. The company began with Bodo Buschmann wanting to customize his cars. Discovering that most existing customisers could not grasp his vision or meet his requirements, he started his own brand. The company name was derived from the first three characters of the founders' surnames (Brackmann, Buschmann). Brackmann sold his company shares to Buschmann for 100 euros, establishing the foundation for what would become one of the world's most prestigious automotive tuning companies.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Brabus became known for performance upgrades and vehicle tuning, particularly on Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The company gained recognition for its work on high-performance cars and developed a reputation for creating powerful, customized vehicles with enhanced performance and distinctive styling. Brabus became known for extreme performance modifications and luxury upgrades, establishing itself as a leader in the high-performance automotive customization market.
In the 2000s and 2010s, Brabus continued to expand its tuning services and product offerings, becoming recognized as a leader in high-performance vehicle customization. The company developed specialized expertise in engine modifications, achieving remarkable power outputs while maintaining reliability and drivability. Brabus engines range from small 200 horsepower K4 blocks for SLK roadsters and CLK-Class to the 900 horsepower twin-turbo blocks for the S-Class, demonstrating the company's technical capabilities and engineering excellence.
In 2012, Brabus started building its third factory in Bottrop, expanding its production capacity to meet growing global demand for high-performance vehicle modifications. This expansion demonstrated the company's continued growth and success in the luxury automotive tuning market.
In recent years, Brabus has continued to focus on performance tuning and luxury vehicle modifications, serving performance enthusiasts and luxury vehicle owners seeking enhanced capabilities. The company has expanded its global presence and operates in over 100 countries, maintaining its position as a premier provider of high-performance automotive modifications and luxury upgrades for Mercedes-Benz and other premium vehicle brands.
Under CEO Constantin Buschmann's leadership, Brabus continues to innovate in automotive tuning technology, developing new performance solutions and maintaining its reputation for extreme performance modifications and luxury upgrades. The company's commitment to quality engineering and customer service has established it as a trusted name in the high-performance automotive customization industry.