STRATEGIC MARKET ANALYSIS & MARKET RESEARCH FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

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

Automotive market research serves our customers as a reliable basis for decision-making for the market launch of innovations , the acquisition of new customers , for strategy projects or for  national and international  competition analysis

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 more about some exemplary market analysis projects in the automotive sector.

The design and functionality of vehicle interiors and infotainment solutions are becoming an increasingly important purchasing factor for vehicles. For a leading supplier in the field 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 merging of diverse sensor data (sensor fusion) is a crucial factor in the further development of autonomous vehicle concepts. Data from radar, LIDAR, ultrasonic, and other sensors must be analyzed in real time, compared, and translated into a vehicle response tailored to the situation. For an international technology company planning investments in the field of 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) is playing an increasingly important role in modern vehicle generations as an 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 capable of "understanding" the driver in their natural language and implementing complex voice commands. Furthermore, voice-based systems can be used to detect 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" – this is 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 chassis. Our client, a globally active systems supplier of fluid power components for the automotive and commercial vehicle sectors, commissioned us to conduct a comprehensive strategic analysis of market developments, competitive reactions, and potential growth areas related to the electrification of selected auxiliary components.

Increasing comfort, emissions, and safety requirements in vehicles worldwide are driving steady growth rates for manufacturers of bearings, springs, dampers, and absorbers. Especially in particularly quiet, all-electric drives, even the slightest ambient noise becomes significantly more disruptive. For an international 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 continuing strong international growth of the market for electric vehicles and the associated changes in the automotive value chain are also of concern to the mechanical engineering companies involved. Our client, a leading global manufacturer of high-precision machining centers/turning and milling centers, wants to adapt to the new market situation early on and serve attractive target customers who will be manufacturing complex housings for automotive electric motors with new machine solutions. To this end, the Swabian mechanical engineering company commissioned us to conduct a structured global analysis of the manufacturing landscape for electric motor housings/e-motor housings in electric vehicles.

LED technology has revolutionized automotive lighting. While daytime running lights and taillights are standard, LED lighting systems are now increasingly being incorporated into vehicle headlights. Market participants expect a sharp increase in LED penetration in headlights to more than 50% across all vehicle classes within the next 8-10 years. For suppliers and manufacturers of lighting systems, controls, and modules, this will significantly change the value chain 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 the market opportunities and challenges for LED lighting modules and LED control units. The results of the market analysis form an important basis for our client's long-term development and investment projects.

"Where are cooling concepts for future generations of hybrid and fully electric vehicles heading?" We investigated this question for a system supplier of fluid power components in the automotive market. Various cooling concepts, from conventional glycol-based systems to air cooling, convection systems, PCM, and innovative refrigerant-based solutions, can be found on the market. Through a comprehensive market and competitive analysis, we developed a market overview and an outlook on technological developments in this field in the coming years.

An international plastics manufacturing 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 sophisticated applications in the automotive and commercial vehicle markets. Our team compiled 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 cars and commercial vehicles. For low-volume vehicles, manufacturers are increasingly adopting platform strategies to implement so-called universal control units, which can be adapted to the specific application requirements with minimal effort. OEMs are also using universal control units, particularly for buses, trucks, agricultural machinery, and construction equipment, to achieve cost advantages. The study examined the market potential, future market development, the competitive situation, as well as key customer requirements and market trends in the market for universal control units for European vehicle manufacturers. Based on the analysis, the client, a global electronics supplier, is systematically preparing for the development and market launch of its new, innovative universal control unit.

Lightweight construction plays a key role in achieving lower CO2 emissions in both conventional drive systems and vehicles with electric drive concepts. 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 variant diversity, high cost pressure, and the localization of production are presenting toolmaking operations at OEMs and suppliers with increasing challenges. Against this backdrop, leading automotive manufacturers such as BMW, Audi, and Daimler are investing significantly in expanding their toolmaking expertise and the associated plant technology. For a leading supplier of machine controls for milling machines, which are also used in toolmaking, we investigated the market potential, competitive situation, and customer requirements/trends in automotive toolmaking. Among other things, we conducted in-depth interviews with toolmaking managers at BMW and Daimler's most important toolmaking locations.

For a leading German premium automobile manufacturer, we analyzed the global market for trim parts made of wood, aluminum, and plastics for interior and exterior applications. More than 100 potential suppliers worldwide were identified, screened, and evaluated in a structured manner. Based on this comprehensive market overview, 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 increase in the number of decentralized control units in modern vehicles in recent years. Some luxury vehicles now have 100 or more control units on board. The growing use of assistance systems, including partially and fully autonomous driving (ADAS), is driving an increased need for data and sensor integration. In the medium term, vehicle manufacturers are therefore focusing on consolidating and centralizing their electronic architectures in future vehicle platforms, increasingly deploying central control units/domain controllers. For our client, an international electronics manufacturer in the automotive sector, we examined the market situation and future potential in the field of automotive domain controllers for a new product development.

For a development service provider, we analyzed the market status, competitive landscape, and future trends in the field of vehicle acoustics. Based on the market analysis, the client was able to expand its business in this area in a targeted manner.

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

As part of a planned 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 participants with expertise in processing fiber-reinforced thermoplastics. Fiber-reinforced thermoplastics are used primarily in the automotive and aerospace industries, and the market for fiber-reinforced thermoplastics is considered one of the most promising segments in the plastics processing sector.

For a supplier of fluid power 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 mechanical engineering .

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

The market for trucks and commercial vehicles is also being shaped by key industry trends such as electrification, connectivity, and autonomization. At the same time, the industry is under considerable competitive and cost pressure. 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 examined the strategic trends of 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. The technological development toward connected, autonomous, and electric vehicles is driving demand for electronic components and automotive sensors. For a leading technology provider in the field of industrial adhesive technology, we examined the US market for adhesive technology in the electronics and sensor sectors. Our market analysis identified the leading electronics and sensor companies in the automotive sector in the US. This market analysis served as the basis for our client's systematic development of the US market segment.

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

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

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 a basis for 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 tap into the market in a targeted manner.

For a supplier in the automotive glazing sector, we analyzed the global market for head-up displays in the passenger car sector. The analysis served as a basis for the supplier's expansion of its business in this market.

For a trade fair company, we analyzed development trends and leading manufacturers in the market for automotive switches and control panels. The analysis served as the basis for expanding an existing industry trade fair to include a promising technology area.

For an investor, we analyzed the extruded flat cable segment for automotive applications. The results of the analysis were incorporated into an M&A decision.

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

For an investor, we analyzed the global market for aluminum die-casting products in the automotive sector. The focus of the analysis was to identify manufacturers in North America, South America, and China.

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

We analyzed the global market for slush molding systems for a supplier of equipment technology for automotive interior manufacturing. This analysis served as the basis for an investor's planned entry into the company.

For an international testing and certification company, we analyzed the demand for non-destructive testing 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, which are primarily used by suppliers in the automotive sector, we analyzed the market situation in Germany and Europe in the context of a planned investment.

For a manufacturer of high-precision machining centers, we developed an overview of the global air conditioning compressor market, the leading manufacturers of air conditioning compressors, and their production locations worldwide. This analysis served as the basis for expanding the client's sales activities in the market.

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 suppliers in the engine insulation and engine encapsulation market.

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

What market opportunities does the future of autonomous, connected vehicles offer for suppliers outside of the electronics and software sectors? How do self-driving vehicles impact the overall market and 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 perspective on this issue.

The penetration rate of Level 3 autonomy in passenger cars will 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, thus contributing to significantly increasing unit sales of HOD systems. 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 significant momentum in the market for hands-off detection solutions. Against this backdrop, we investigated 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 increasing data rates in future vehicle platforms. Statements from leading OEMs indicate that multi-gig data rates between 6 and 9 Gdps for SOP 2026+ models are of great importance from the OEMs' perspective. BMW, for example, 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 the backdrop of this attractive market environment, we examined 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 market analysis Automotive Suppliers Germany 2025 by MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH, we systematically examine the leading 100 automotive suppliers in Germany.

Facts about the company and industry: The market analysis "Automotive Suppliers Germany 2025" collected the current sales trends of the top 100 suppliers headquartered and manufactured in Germany, the development of the companies' profits, and the distribution by product group manufactured. The Munich-based market analysts also analyzed the regional distribution of the industry in Germany.

Sales and employment (still) on the rise, profitability unclear: The total sales of the German TOP 100 automotive suppliers will amount to €279 billion in 2023. Compared to the crisis year of 2020, the sales of the top 100 players have thus increased significantly again in recent years. The average sales of the TOP 100 are growing at a CAGR of 6.9%, from €2,600 million in 2019 to €3,400 million in 2023. This development also confirms the trend toward further consolidation among automotive suppliers. However, a significant portion of the sales increase is likely also due to inflation and the associated price increases, along with higher material prices. The number of employees at the major automotive suppliers examined has increased significantly since 2019, with an average growth rate of approximately 4.5% per year. However, given the large-scale job cuts recently announced by many major players, this trend is likely to come to a halt starting in 2024, and at the latest when they are implemented in 2025. Profitability trends vary considerably; some companies have recently become significantly more profitable. At the same time, there are also numerous loss-making suppliers in the middle to lower ranks of the ranking.

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

Download Top 100 Automotive Suppliers DE 2025

OUR SPECIALITY: NICHES AND SOPHISTICATED TECHNOLOGIES

Automotive market analyses by MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH often focus on niche markets, product innovations, and technologically demanding topics. In such contexts, conventional market studies from major market research providers often lack useful data.

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, enabling us to gain valuable, in-depth insights into the market, potential, customer requirements, and trends.

ON THE RISE: DIVERSIFICATION STRATEGY FOR AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLIERS

We are increasingly supporting automotive suppliers in developing new sectors and sales potential outside the automotive industry. Growing pressure from OEMs and below-average margins are prompting many company leaders to more systematically explore the possibilities of other application areas.

Whether in medical technology, energy technology, or 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.

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