German Automakers in Lead of Innovation Excellence

Abstract

This paper presents the innovation performance of German automakers and the automotive industry. The importance of this industry for economic growth, employment, sustainability and for Germany as an appropriate location for industry will be pointed out. The need for research and innovation (R&I) can be derived from that, because innovativeness is the basis for the lead. The research question deals with the innovation excellence as a booster for success and profitability as well as the reason for a high impact on economy. The innovativeness of the automotive industry will be demonstrated with selected figures. Important aspects of innovation management will be explained. Methodologically, empirical, analytical and theoretical approaches are used. Statistical data, topical literature, surveys, and logical conclusions will lead to justified arguments. It can be stated that the German automotive industry provides an important contribution to the economy in terms of spending money for R&I, employment, investment and expenses for
buying parts from suppliers on the input side. On the output side however profitability is created through new products with higher value and higher sales volume at lower cost position. So innovation helps to increase prosperity of companies, employees and economy.