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Automotive Industry

Germany is recognized globally for its exceptional automotive industry, leading Europe's production and sales. With world-class R&D infrastructure, a complete industry value chain and a highly qualified workforce, Germany offers an international automotive environment that meets tomorrow’s needs.

Key Facts

Automotive Industry Key Facts

558.1 bn

Automotive Industry Revenue (in EUR)

2.8 m

Passenger Car Registration (in Units)

780 k

Automotive Industry Employees

28.7 bn

R&D Expenditure (in EUR)

44 bn

R&D E-Mobility and Digitalization

140 k

Highly Skilled Engineers

 

Facts & Figures

  • Four out of ten industry companies in Germany already use 3D printing. A bitkom survey shows that some 44 percent of industrial companies in Germany with more than 100 employees were already using 3D printing technologies and 20 percent planned to use them in the near future. Industrial companies already using 3D printing primarily produce samples or molds (57 percent), spare parts (48 percent) and visual models (33 percent).
  • AM plant technology sales by industry reflect the broad application potential. The uniform distribution across a wide range of industries - with the automotive, aerospace, and medical technology and dental segments - forming a focal point with around half of the total market. Germany boasts numerous manufacturing facilities in these industries.
  • With 37 manufacturers who produce and sell industrial AM systems, Germany ranks first within Europe and - together with China – is second worldwide only after the US.
  • Europe is the leader in metal AM systems, with 49 manufacturers of AM metal systems in 2022 - compared to 23 in the US and 16 in China. The installed base for metal AM system is currently dominated by German manufacturers including EOS, SLM Solutions and Trumpf. Including the Concept Laser facilities acquired by US group General Electric, system technology produced in Germany makes up more than half of the globally installed base.

Germany is also a leader in the field of research and development of metal AM systems. The Fraunhofer ILT is generally regarded as the founder of laser-based additive manufacturing. RWTH Aachen, for instance, also conducts research on processing low-cost steel using AM and hot isostatic pressing in the framework of its HIGHRES project.

Opportunities

Germany’s automotive industry is at the forefront of innovation, presenting numerous opportunities across various sectors.

  • Advanced Automotive Battery Technology

    Expect new battery chemistries for electric vehicles, faster charging times and improved safety with solid-state batteries.

  • Autonomous Driving (ADAS)

    ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle Technology Expo focuses on best practices, case studies and innovations to accelerate next-generation vehicle development.

  • Digitalization/Electronics

    Digitalization transforms data into meaningful value, impacting on industries like media and automotive.

  • E-Mobility

    Electromobility includes electric cars, e-bikes and more – all aiming for climate-friendly energy supplies.

  • Energy Efficiency

    Key for lower CO2 emissions and EU policies promote using less energy to achieve the same results.

  • Fuel Cell Technology

    Fuel cells offer clean energy by converting hydrogen into electricity, with applications in transportation, especially in the commercial vehicle sector.

  • Lightweight Industry

    Innovations in materials and design reduce weight, improving efficiency and sustainability.

  • Software Defined Vehicles (SDV)

    SDVs use software to control vehicle functions, enhancing safety and increasing customization.

Business Environment

“Made in Germany” is still a world-class argument: The export outlook is particularly positive, showing a double-digit balance for the first time in almost a year. Positive developments in the US and China, the two major sales markets for German automakers, contribute to renewed market optimism. The German automotive industry continuously innovates and seeks sustainable solutions.

  • Regulatory Environment

    Germany adheres to strict safety and environmental standards for automobile production. These regulations promote quality and sustainability. The German government also generously supports R&D in areas like electric mobility and autonomous driving.

  • Certification

    The German automotive industry benefits from internationally recognized quality certification such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. These certifications enhance customer trust and facilitate exports.

  • Labor Laws and Collective Agreements

    Germany boasts a well-trained workforce and stable labor relations. Collective bargaining agreements ensure fair wages and working conditions.

  • Location Advantages

    Germany offers excellent infrastructure, access to skilled professionals and a central European location. These factors facilitate trade and logistics.

  • Comparison with Other Countries

    Germany has a strong industrial base, a long tradition in automobile manufacturing and close collaboration between manufacturers and suppliers.

News

Mobility in Germany News

Germany’s mobility industry operates in a vibrant and dynamic business location where new opportunities are created by constant innovation. International investors are welcome to stay updated on new mobility developments in the heartland of German industry.

  1. Mar 04, 2025 Markets Germany Magazine 1/25 | EV Infrastructure
    Faster, Longer, Cleaner

    Germany is creating a nationwide super-charging network for electric trucks to meet the demand in the changing long-distance transport sector. Decarbonized logistics requires intelligent, gridfriendly solutions — and those who act now can profit by helping shape the future of intelligent charging infrastructure.

  2. Nov 21, 2024 Luft- und Raumfahrzeuge
    German-French Start-Up Sets Record for Space VC

    The Exploration Company (TEC) recorded the largest financing round ever for a European new space company.

  3. Jul 23, 2024 Electric Mobility
    German Researchers Achieve Megawatt Charging for E-Trucks

    A consortium led by the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has developed a rapid charging process that will encourage electromobility.

More

Downloads

Are you looking for detailed auto industry analyses and market opportunity reports? Download our industry overview for market insights in Europe’s most dynamic and thriving automotive market.

Industry Overview – The Automotive Industry in Germany

The Automotive Industry in Germany

Find out more and download our latest industry overview "The Automotive Industry in Germany" free of charge.

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