Automotive

For several years, automobile manufacturers and equipment suppliers (OEM and OES) have been confronted with a "scissor effect" that systematically puts pressure on their margins, with:

• Structural over-capacity, particularly in mature countries
• Environmental constraints growing stricter every year
• Enhanced customer expectations, calling for more equipment and greater personalization without any increase in price

The 2008/2009 crisis only exacerbated these constraints, with 2007 volumes not expected to be reached again until 2015 (EU/NAFTA).

To meet these challenges, OEMs and OES will have to:

• Continue the vertical de-integration strategy, focusing efforts on shared platforms and module assemblies for OEMs, as well as reaching critical mass in key technologies through acquisitions or mergers for OES
• Develop innovative strategies: new offers (electric or hybrid cars), new business models (sales of mobility solutions, rentals or sales of chargers for electric cars, car-sharing services), and personalized services (personalization program, etc.)
• Enhance their top line by offering innovative marketing solutions, for example with brand differentiation