Automotive Pulse Check Q1/2025

The European automotive sector faces mounting pressure from technological disruption, geopolitical tension, and shifting trade dynamics. Yet, the industry remains surprisingly resilient. More than 75% of leaders surveyed by H&Z report a positive or neutral outlook for 2025 – a strong signal in uncertain times.

Optimism Amid Geopolitical Disruption

Three strategic priorities are shaping the industry’s roadmap:

Targeted Growth – Investments in electrification and innovation, especially around software-defined vehicles (SDV), are accelerating.
Securing Profitability – Companies focus on EBIT improvement through cost optimisation, efficiency programs, and structural consolidation.
Building Resilience – Organisations are redesigning supply chains, exploring AI use cases, and evolving business models to mitigate external risks.

Read the full H&Z Automotive Pulse Check Q1/2025 now

2025 Automotive Pulse Check Q1

Get in Contact with our experts

Dr. Albert Neumann

Partner

Dr. Albert Neumann is a Partner at H&Z and an expert in the automotive industry, focusing on corporate strategy, R&D, and integrating sustainability through digitalisation and circular economy approaches.

Tobias Stahl

Principal

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