The automotive industry is one of the flagship industries in Germany. It is a driver of innovation for international competitors and also for the production technology of which it is the largest customer. At present, it is facing major challenges from all sides: Supply bottlenecks for semiconductors and key components are slowing down production; a shortage of skilled workers is hampering development; great pressure to transform the portfolio requires high investment; and finally, lively competition from newcomers to the market is putting pressure on the industry. Read the following analysis by the ifo Institute in Munich, Germany, to find out what is currently troubling German automakers.

To read the full article in the EMO Future Insight series, visit: German flagship industry under pressure