Thuringia's automotive industry continues to have 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 various burdens to which they are exposed. This is the conclusion of the new edition of the study series "AUTOMONITOR Thüringen“, which was prepared by the Thuringian State Development Corporation (LEG) on behalf of the Thuringian Ministry of Economics, Agriculture and Rural Areas (TMWLLR). The study analyzes current developments in the industry and identifies 10 key potential fields for companies in the Thuringia region.
The potential fields identified in the report illustrate the areas in which growth opportunities are opening up for companies in the industry. These include, on the one hand, global future technologies related to electromobility and battery technology, as well as software-based and optoelectronic vehicle functions. However, business prospects can also arise from the further development of traditional Thuringian areas of expertise such as precision metal processing, thermal management, interiors, or special vehicle construction. In addition, the defense industry is gaining importance as a potential additional business – especially where products and technologies can be used for both civilian and military purposes.
A central role for the future viability of the industry also falls to aspects of supply and infrastructure security concerning issues of energy, raw materials, and digitalization. A structural challenge for the local automotive industry also arises from the fact that a significant portion of companies are integrated into group structures whose strategic control lies outside Thuringia. This creates the risk that location decisions are not primarily aligned with regional strengths, but rather with overarching corporate logics.
The AUTOMONITOR Thuringia 2026 shows that the situation remains tense, but Thuringia also has substantial opportunities. Whether these are utilized depends on how successfully economic strength, technological development, and political design power can be brought together in the coming years.
“The automotive industry is a key sector for Thuringia. That is precisely why it is crucial that we actively shape the transformation. The results of the AUTOMONITOR provide indications of 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 special effect that passes quickly, but a long-term structural process. Thuringian companies that have held their own in the market under such challenging conditions for years have long since proven their ability to transform. The key now is to consistently harness innovation potential and further improve the framework conditions for investments and new technologies," emphasizes Andreas Krey, Managing Director of LEG Thüringen.
Background
The study series "AUTOMONITOR Thüringen“ annually analyzes the development of the Thuringian automotive and supplier industry. It is based on a company survey, extensive literature research, and discussions with industry experts. The aim is to identify economic trends at an early stage and to show starting points for the further development of the automotive location Thuringia.
