STRATEGIC MARKET ANALYSIS & MARKET RESEARCH FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH creates strategic market analyses and customized market studies for OEMs, suppliers, and service providers in the automotive industry. A market analysis for the automotive sector and automotive industry by MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH, for example, examines market volume, market potential, competitors, target customers , as well as success factors and market trends.

Automotive market research serves our clients as a reliable basis for decisions regarding the market launch of innovations , the acquisition of new customers , strategy projects , or competitive analysis  both nationally and internationally. 

CURRENT MARKET RESEARCH & MARKET ANALYSIS PROJECTS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR

market and competitive analyses for our clients , tailored to their specific requirements. Click on the project examples to learn about some exemplary market analysis projects in the automotive sector.

The design and functionality of vehicle interiors and infotainment solutions are becoming increasingly important purchasing factors. For a leading supplier of interior solutions (instrument panels, center consoles, and door panels), we investigated market trends for integrated touch solutions, lighting solutions, and functionally integrated components.

The integration of diverse sensor data (sensor fusion) is a crucial factor in the further development of autonomous vehicle concepts. Data from radar, LiDAR, ultrasound, and other sensors must be analyzed in real time, compared against each other, and translated into a situation-adapted vehicle response. For an international technology company planning investments in automotive sensor fusion, we examined the market situation in Europe and identified the key market players in hardware and software solutions for sensor fusion.

Intelligent voice control (voice interaction) plays an increasingly important role in modern vehicle generations as the interface between driver and vehicle. Using simple voice commands, the driver can intuitively control important functions, such as entertainment or comfort systems, without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. Voice interaction systems are increasingly able to "understand" the driver's natural language and implement complex voice commands. Furthermore, voice-based systems can be used to recognize driver fatigue or mood, thus increasing driving safety. In a comprehensive market analysis of the European market for voice interaction technologies, we examined the market situation and leading solution and technology providers for hardware and software for voice control systems.

"Electric, connected, autonomous" – that's how OEMs describe the future of the automobile. The electrification of auxiliary components, in particular, has a massive impact on suppliers of hydraulic components for brakes, steering, and suspension. Our client, a global systems supplier of fluid power components for the automotive and commercial vehicle sectors, commissioned us to conduct a comprehensive strategy analysis of market developments, competitive reactions, and potential growth areas resulting from the electrification of selected auxiliary components.

Increasing comfort, emissions, and safety requirements in vehicles worldwide are driving steady growth for manufacturers of bearings, springs, dampers, and vibration absorbers. Especially with ultra-quiet, all-electric powertrains, even the slightest background noise becomes significantly more disruptive. For an internationally operating manufacturer of vibration control solutions and automotive anti-vibration systems, we developed an overview of the market and leading companies, their strategies, M&A activities, and global production networks. Based on our detailed analysis, our client is further expanding its position in Europe, North and South America, and Asia.

The rapidly growing international market for electric vehicles and the associated changes in the automotive value chain are also a concern for machine manufacturers. Our client, a leading global manufacturer of high-precision machining centers/turning and milling centers, wants to prepare early for the new market situation and serve attractive target customers who will be manufacturing complex housings for automotive electric motors in the future with new machine solutions. To this end, the Swabian machine manufacturer commissioned us to conduct a structured global analysis of the manufacturing landscape for electric motor housings/e-motor housings for electric vehicles.

LED technology has revolutionized automotive lighting. While daytime running lights and taillights are now standard, LED lighting systems are increasingly finding their way into vehicle headlights. Within the next 8-10 years, market participants expect a significant increase in LED penetration in front headlights to more than 50% across all vehicle classes. This will considerably change the value chain for suppliers and manufacturers of lighting systems, controllers, and modules compared to conventional halogen or xenon headlights. For our client, one of the world's leading manufacturers of automotive lighting systems, we developed a comprehensive market, competitive, and technology overview of market opportunities and challenges for LED lighting modules and LED control units. The results of this market analysis provide an important foundation for our client's long-term development and investment projects.

"Where are the cooling concepts of future generations of hybrid and fully electric vehicles headed?" We investigated this question for a systems supplier of fluid technology components in the automotive market. A variety of cooling concepts are available on the market, ranging from conventional glycol-based systems to air cooling, convection systems, PCM, and novel refrigerant-based solutions. Through a comprehensive market and competitive analysis, we developed a market overview and an outlook on the technological developments in this field over the next few years.

An international plastics production and trading group planned to acquire a medium-sized compounder in the German automotive market. The focus was on compounders of so-called "engineered plastics" with demanding applications in the automotive and commercial vehicle markets. Our team developed a comprehensive long list of suitable target companies for the acquisition and supported the investor in selecting attractive target companies.

Electronic control units (ECUs) are playing an increasingly important role in modern passenger cars and commercial vehicles. For vehicles with low production volumes, manufacturers are increasingly using so-called universal ECUs as part of platform strategies. These ECUs can be easily adapted to the specific requirements of the application. OEMs are also using universal ECUs in buses, trucks, agricultural machinery, and construction equipment to achieve cost advantages. This study examined the market potential, future market development, competitive landscape, key customer requirements, and market trends for universal ECUs for European vehicle manufacturers. Based on this analysis, the client, a global electronics supplier, is strategically preparing the development and market launch of its new, innovative universal ECU.

Lightweight construction plays a central role in achieving lower CO2 emissions for both conventional and electric drive systems. Suppliers with lightweight construction expertise are sought-after partners for OEMs. As part of the strategic development of a development and testing company in the automotive market, we analyzed the market situation and supplier landscape in the lightweight construction market segments of aluminum, polymers/lightweight plastics, natural fiber-reinforced plastics, high-strength and super-strength steel, and carbon fiber and glass fiber-reinforced plastics.

Increasing product variety, high cost pressure, and the localization of production are presenting growing challenges for toolmaking at OEMs and suppliers. Against this backdrop, leading vehicle manufacturers such as BMW, Audi, and Daimler are investing significantly in expanding their toolmaking expertise and the associated equipment. For a leading supplier of machine controls for milling machines, which are also used in toolmaking, we examined the market potential, competitive landscape, and customer requirements/trends in automotive toolmaking. This included conducting in-depth interviews with toolmaking executives at BMW and Daimler's key toolmaking locations.

For a leading German premium car manufacturer, we analyzed the global market for trim components made of wood, aluminum, and plastics for interior and exterior applications. More than 100 potential suppliers worldwide were identified, thoroughly examined, and systematically evaluated. Based on this comprehensive market overview, the purchasing and development departments have the opportunity to broaden their supplier base and establish new local suppliers for their global plants.

The rapid increase in safety and comfort electronics in vehicles has led to a significant rise in the number of decentralized control units in modern vehicles in recent years. Some high-end vehicles now have 100 or more control units on board. The growing use of driver assistance systems, including partially and fully autonomous driving functionalities (ADAS), is creating an additional need for data and sensor integration. In the medium term, vehicle manufacturers are therefore focusing on consolidating and centralizing their electronic architectures for future vehicle platforms, increasingly using central control units/domain controllers. For our client, an internationally operating electronics manufacturer in the automotive sector, we analyzed the market situation and future potential of automotive domain controllers for a new product development.

We analyzed the market status, competitive landscape, and future trends in the field of vehicle acoustics for a development service provider. Based on this market analysis, the client was able to strategically expand their business in this area.

We analyzed market entry potential in the automotive lighting market for a supplier. As part of the analysis, we identified suitable application areas, determined customers and their requirements, analyzed the competition, and examined key market trends. This analysis serves as the basis for the market entry strategy.

As part of a planned corporate acquisition, we analyzed the European market for fiber-reinforced thermoplastics. For the client's M&A strategy, we identified and analyzed more than 30 key market players with expertise in processing fiber-reinforced thermoplastics. Fiber-reinforced thermoplastics are primarily used in the automotive and aerospace industries, and the market for fiber-reinforced thermoplastics is considered one of the most promising segments in plastics processing.

For a supplier of fluid technology components, we analyzed market potential in various segments of the global agricultural machinery market. Through interviews with potential target customers, we systematically analyzed and evaluated the potential and their needs. Learn more about our expertise in market analysis for the mechanical engineering .

For a financial services provider in the automotive sector, we analyzed competitor offerings in the areas of financing and leasing terms, as well as special offers for large corporate clients. This analysis served as the basis for ongoing market monitoring.

The truck and commercial vehicle market is also shaped by key industry trends such as electrification, connectivity, and automation. At the same time, the sector faces significant competitive and cost pressures. In our market analysis of technical trends in the truck market, we examined the development activities of leading truck OEMs such as Daimler Trucks, Traton, and Volvo in the areas of powertrain/new drive systems (e.g., electrification/hydrogen), chassis, brakes, and transmission. We also investigated the strategic trends at Tier 1 suppliers such as ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions, Knorr-Bremse, Bosch, Meritor, and Dana.

The role of electronics and sensors in the automotive sector is constantly increasing. Technological advancements toward connected, autonomous, and electric vehicles are driving the demand for electronic components and automotive sensors. For a leading technology provider in the field of industrial adhesives, we analyzed the US market for adhesives in the electronics and sensor sectors. Our market analysis identified the leading electronics and sensor companies in the US automotive industry. This analysis served as the foundation for our client's systematic development of this market segment in the US.

For an investor in the automotive sector, we analyzed the global market for passenger car safety systems as part of an M&A decision. The analysis examined market size, growth prospects, key suppliers in the field of vehicle safety systems, market trends, and regulations.

For an automotive supplier, we investigated market size, growth, key suppliers and trends in the global market for exhaust gas recirculation coolers.

For a supplier of electronic components for passenger car and commercial vehicle test benches, we analyzed the market situation, key manufacturers, and technical trends in the European test bench market. This analysis served as the basis for the targeted development of this market segment.

For a rental service provider in the automotive market, we analyzed the potential for taking over fleet management services from non-European OEMs in the German market. Based on this analysis, the client was able to strategically enter the market.

We analyzed the global market for head-up displays in the passenger car sector for a supplier in the automotive glazing industry. This analysis served as the basis for expanding the supplier's business in this market.

We analyzed development trends and leading manufacturers in the automotive switches and control panels market for a trade fair company. This analysis served as the basis for expanding an existing industry trade fair to include a promising technology sector.

We analyzed the extruded flat cable segment for automotive applications on behalf of an investor. The results of the analysis informed an M&A decision.

For an automotive rental service provider, we analyzed market potential and the competitive landscape at the regional level. The results of this analysis formed the basis for the targeted expansion of activities in attractive regions.

We analyzed the global market for aluminum die-cast products in the automotive sector for an investor. The analysis focused on identifying manufacturers in North America, South America, and China.

For a manufacturer of automotive infotainment solutions in the OEM sector, we analyzed market size, competitive landscape, and market trends in the global market. This analysis served as the basis for the targeted strategic development of the supplier.

We analyzed the global market for slush molding systems for a supplier of plant technology in the automotive interior manufacturing sector. This analysis formed the basis for an investor's planned investment in the company.

For an internationally operating testing and certification company, we analyzed the need for non-destructive testing (NDT) services as part of a planned market entry. Through interviews with quality and testing managers, we identified market potential, customer requirements, and key competitors in the NDT services market.

For a manufacturer of industrial furnaces, primarily used by automotive suppliers, we analyzed the market situation in Germany and Europe as part of a planned investment.

For a manufacturer of high-precision machining centers, we prepared an overview of the global market for air conditioning compressors, the leading manufacturers of air conditioning compressors, and their production sites worldwide. This analysis formed the basis for the client's expansion of sales activities in the market.

The acoustic and thermal insulation of the engine compartment and other vehicle components is becoming increasingly important, both in vehicles with modern downsized combustion engines and in the field of electromobility. For our client, an international supplier of plastic and foam products for the automotive sector, we analyzed the market situation and the leading providers in the engine insulation and encapsulation market.

Electric drive axles are a key component in many future electric vehicles. Numerous OEMs and suppliers are developing e-axle concepts, and market players like Bosch and Continental anticipate a multi-billion-dollar market in the foreseeable future. For our client, a component supplier for the axle sector, we analyzed the market situation, the activities of leading manufacturers, and the competitive landscape from our client's perspective.

What market opportunities does the future of autonomous, connected vehicles offer for suppliers outside the electronics and software sectors? How will self-driving vehicles affect the overall market and the demand for specific vehicle components? How will service concepts and spare parts requirements change in the context of a "shared mobility" future? A leading international automotive supplier commissioned us to analyze the market and competitive landscape in relation to these questions.

The penetration rate of Level 3 autonomy in passenger cars is expected to rise to approximately 14-21% by 2025, leading to strong growth in HOD (Hands Off Detection) sensors and systems. Currently, premium OEMs dominate the market for L3 vehicles, but in the future, volume brands will also increasingly adopt the technology, contributing to a significant increase in the number of HOD systems installed. New technologies such as camera-based driver monitoring systems, multi-zone HOD solutions, and the development of entirely new steering wheel systems in highly autonomous vehicles are driving considerable dynamism in the market for hands-off detection solutions. Against this backdrop, we examined the market situation, leading players, and key trends in the hands-off detection systems market for a Japanese Tier 1 supplier.

The automotive megatrends toward autonomous, connected, and software-defined vehicles will lead to significantly increased data rates in future vehicle platforms. Statements from leading OEMs indicate that multi-gig data rates between 6 and 9 Gdps are of great importance for SOP 2026+ models from their perspective. For example, BMW sees multi-gig Ethernet as the right technology to meet the future challenges of new vehicle architectures. VW will also transition to zone-based architectures for its next-generation platforms, thus paving the way for Ethernet-based backbones. Against this backdrop of an attractive market environment, we analyzed the market, competition, and trends in the multi-gig Ethernet connector market for our client, a leading developer of automotive connectors.

Market analysis of the automotive industry: TOP 100 automotive suppliers in Germany 2025

The 2025 Ranking: In our 2025 market analysis of automotive suppliers in Germany by MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH, we systematically examine the leading 100 automotive suppliers in Germany.

Facts about companies and the industry: The market analysis "Automotive Suppliers Germany 2025" collected data on the current revenue development of the top 100 suppliers with headquarters and production facilities in Germany, the development of company profits, and the distribution by product group. The Munich-based market analysts also analyzed the regional distribution of the industry in Germany.

Revenue and employment are (still) positive, but profitability remains unclear: The total revenue of Germany's top 100 automotive suppliers amounted to €279 billion in 2023. Compared to the crisis year of 2020, the revenues of the top 100 players have thus increased significantly again in recent years. The average revenue of the top 100 is growing at a CAGR of 6.9%, from €2,600 million in 2019 to €3,400 million in 2023. This development also demonstrates the trend toward further consolidation among automotive suppliers. However, a considerable portion of the revenue increases is likely also attributable to inflation and the associated price increases, coupled with higher material costs. The number of employees at the major automotive suppliers studied has increased significantly since 2019, with an average growth rate of approximately 4.5% per annum. However, given the large-scale job cuts recently announced by many major players, this trend is likely to come to a halt from 2024 onwards, and at the latest with their implementation in 2025. Profitability development varies considerably, with some companies becoming significantly more profitable recently. At the same time, numerous suppliers in the middle to lower ranks of the ranking are also operating at a loss.

Download our free market analysis AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLIERS Germany 2025 as a PDF

Download Top 100 Automotive Suppliers Germany 2025

OUR SPECIALTY: NICHE AND DEMANDING TECHNOLOGIES

Automotive market analyses by MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH often focus on niche markets, product innovations, and technologically demanding topics. Conventional market studies from large market research providers often contain little usable data in such areas.

For market research in the automotive sector, we use a proven, systematic analysis approach that takes all relevant data sources into account.

For particularly demanding automotive market analyses, we also integrate an extensive network of industry experts, through which we can gain valuable, in-depth insights into the market, potential, customer requirements and trends.

RISE IN THE WAY: DIVERSIFICATION STRATEGY FOR AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLIERS

We are increasingly supporting automotive suppliers in developing new industries and sales potential outside the automotive sector. Growing pressure from OEMs and below-average margins are prompting numerous business leaders to systematically explore the possibilities of other application areas.

Whether in medical technology, energy technology or in the field of robotics and automation - our market potential analyses provide a structured and reliable assessment of the opportunities for automotive suppliers in new markets.

EXPERIENCE SINCE 2007 – OUR REFERENCES

Managing directors, sales managers, and strategy and business development managers at more than 100 client companies rely on our meticulous market analyses for one key reason: the uncompromising quality and reliability of our market analysis results.  Our discerning clients also value the personal and open collaboration with our team, as demonstrated by their numerous testimonials – please see for yourself.

Further references

Individual consultation for your company analysis

At MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH, a trusting personal partnership and the high quality and reliability of our analyses are our top priorities.
We would be happy to advise you in detail and without obligation before any potential collaboration on a market study , including, if desired, a personal meeting at your location. We look forward to your inquiry and will gladly prepare a customized offer for you!

Get advice now!