In 1956 a majority stake in Rheinmetall-Borsig AG was acquired by the Röchling Group. Borsig AG was sold to Salzgitter AG and the company name changed from Rheinmetall-Borsig AG to Rheinmetall Berlin AG. Defence-related production would also start again in 1956, the first product being the MG 42. In 1958 diversification into the mechanical engineering and electronics fields occurred and during 1979–1981 these non-defence sectors were thoroughly restructured. Carburetor manufacturer Pierburg GmbH was taken over in 1986 and the current Automotive sector was created.