Thuringia's automotive industry continues to boast a robust industrial base, technological diversity, and several realistic starting points for transformation, renewal, and growth. At the same time, companies in the sector are suffering from the intensity and persistence of the diverse pressures they face. This is the conclusion of the new edition of the "AUTOMONITOR Thuringia" study series, commissioned by the Thuringian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Rural Development (TMWLLR) and conducted by the Thuringian State Development Corporation (LEG). The study analyzes current developments in the sector and identifies 10 key areas of potential for companies located in Thuringia.
The potential areas identified in the report illustrate where growth opportunities are opening up for companies in the sector. These include, on the one hand, global future technologies related to electromobility and battery technology, as well as software-based and optoelectronic vehicle functions. On the other hand, business prospects can also arise from the further development of traditional Thuringian areas of expertise such as precision metal processing, thermal management, interiors, and special vehicle construction. In addition, the defense industry is gaining importance as a potential supplementary business – especially where products and technologies have both civilian and military applications.
Furthermore, aspects of supply and infrastructure security, particularly regarding energy, raw materials, and digitalization, play a central role in the industry's future viability. A further structural challenge for the local automotive industry arises from the fact that a significant number of companies are integrated into corporate structures whose strategic management lies outside of Thuringia. This creates the risk that location decisions will not be primarily based on regional strengths, but rather on overarching corporate logic.
The AUTOMONITOR Thuringia 2026 report shows that the situation remains tense, but Thuringia also possesses substantial opportunities. Whether these are seized depends on how successfully economic strength, technological development, and political influence can be combined in the coming years.
“The automotive industry is a key sector for Thuringia. That's precisely why it's crucial that we actively shape this transformation. The results of the AUTOMONITOR study provide insights into what is possible and necessary through close cooperation between industry and politics in order to create the conditions for a successful transformation,” says Thuringia's Minister of Economic Affairs, Colette Boos-John.
“The transformation of the automotive industry is not a one-off event that will pass quickly, but a long-term structural process. LEG Thüringen.
background
The "AUTOMONITOR Thüringen" study series analyzes the development of the Thuringian automotive and supplier industry annually. It is based on a company survey, extensive literature research, and discussions with industry experts. The aim is to identify economic trends early on and to highlight starting points for the further development of Thuringia as an automotive location.
