April 1, 2025 – The firm advised Mercedes-Benz in its investment in humanoid robotics company Apptronik’s $403 million Series A funding round.

Mercedes-Benz joined Google and others in the oversubscribed round.

Proceeds from the Series A funding will be used to fuel the production and deployment of Apptronik’s AI-powered humanoid robot, Apollo, and support growing customer demand across a variety of industries.

Mercedes also entered into a collaboration agreement with Apptronik to pilot the use of Apollo in its manufacturing facilities. These robots are being tested for tasks such as delivering assembly kits and inspecting components.

Mercedes’ investment in and collaboration with Apptronik was reported on by multiple outlets, including Axios, BILD, Newsweek, Reuters and TechCrunch. Read Apptronik’s full press release.

Gerold Niggemann led the Hughes Hubbard team, which included Patrice Jean, Sean Reilly, Jason Lee and Kathyann Saunders. The Mercedes in-house team which worked with Hughes Hubbard on the deal was led by Michael Rebholz (Legal M&A).