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Dr. Shmuel Harlap (1944–2026) was chairman of the Colmobil Group, a businessman, and a leading investor in Israel’s high-tech industry. He served in the Golani Reconnaissance Unit during his military service. Dr. Harlap held bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and a doctorate from Harvard University. Earlier in his career, he served as a lecturer in political science at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Beginning in 1982, Dr. Harlap served as chairman of Colmobil. Under his leadership, the company grew to become a leading vehicle importer, commanding a significant share of the Israeli market. Alongside his work in the automotive industry, he was a major investor, both directly and through the company, in a range of Israeli technology companies and startups. His notable investments included Mobileye (until its acquisition by Intel), OrCam Technologies, cybersecurity company Nyotron Information Security, and aerospace startup AIR.
