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November management briefing
The automotive industry and the economic crisis - a just-auto review
just-auto has tracked an industry in turmoil and, as this latest briefing shows, made sense of an unprecedented time. This collection of features, interviews and informed insight pieces from just-auto's team of leading researchers, analysts and commentators puts the complex events of the past year in perspective whilst laying out some of the considerable challenges that still lie ahead. The adjustment continues.
October management briefing
Green regulation of auto sector spreads and deepens worldwide
The auto industry is one of the most globally integrated manufacturing industries on the planet, but national government sovereignty still dictates for most environmental rules that impact on the industry (except in most of Europe where EU laws are the legislation to follow). There are dominant jurisdictions of course, which influence the framing of laws abroad. In this month's briefing we look at the most important of these, examining the environmental legislation impacting on the industry in the US, EU, Canada, Japan, South Korea, India and China. We examine fuel and vehicles emission rules, new-for-old schemes, energy taxation and other associated legislation.
September management briefing
ASEAN automotive market review
The six-nation ASEAN trading bloc has suffered in line with the global economic downturn, with overall vehicle sales down 21.6% in the first half of 2009 to 844,000 units, and all markets reporting declines. But the fall has not been consistent across the region. Some markets have outperformed others, as their governments have acted positively to stimulate the market with measures such as tax cuts, scrappage schemes or relaxed credit rules. In this month's briefing we review the nations' car market performances and the latest manufacturer activity across the region.
July / August management briefing
Automotive markets outlook
Wherever you look in the world's automotive industry, 2009 is proving to be a tough one. Indeed, the scale of the downturn in automotive markets and the impact on vehicle and parts producers, coming after a period of prolonged boom, is unprecedented. However, an even more serious financial meltdown and the worst scenarios for the world's economy were successfully averted. The world's financial system – if not healed – is at least partially functioning and not in imminent danger of collapse. The purpose of this briefing is to provide a review of the latest major developments in automotive markets alongside an assessment of prospects. As the industry prepares for the 2010 model year, there is at least a growing conviction that the worst of the uncertainties that governed the first half of 2009 are behind us.
June management briefing
Global market review of vehicle instrumentation and cockpits – forecasts to 2014
This month, we're offering our subscribers the opportunity to sample another of just-auto’s global market research reports: this time we're providing the 2008 edition of our instrumentation report. This takes the place of a management briefing. Currently priced at £495, we hope you find it interesting and informative. If you like what you read and would like to find out more about just-auto’s latest reports, and request an updated copy of this report, feel free to drop Chris an email at chris.clarke@just-auto.com
May management briefing
Central and Eastern Europe automotive market review
The opening of Hyundai’s Nosovice plant in the Czech Republic in November 2008 marked the end of an era for Central Europe. It meant all the major new greenfield car manufacturing investments in the region were now up and running. And given the state of the global economy, it is unlikely there will be any more investment in new plants there for the foreseeable future. With investment in new plants no longer an option, the automotive industry in Central Europe has switched to survival mode. This month's briefing from Mark Bursa focuses on the industry in the region providing analysis of recent market performance, a review of top car models, labour costs and activity by each major manufacturer.
April management briefing
New automobile plants blaze trail in new technology and best practice
With technological change being forced upon the auto manufacturing industry plants are being retooled faster than in living memory. At such a time, companies are always looking for new ideas and technology. The best place to assess new practices and machinery is always going to be a recently built or upgraded plant, because it is here that managers have tested them out on making vehicles. So, just-auto told three reporters on three continents to pick a plant that was well-known for innovation and to examine how they went about their business: one in north America, one in Europe, and another in Japan. This briefing aims to catch a glimpse of the future for auto manufacturing, and how these plants could be showing the way forward in a sector about to embark on wholesale change.
March management briefing
just-auto’s sector research review
In this, the third edition of our now annual sector research review, we round up some findings from some of just-auto’s recently published market sector research reports. The briefing looks at four recent global sector reports published by just-auto, starting with engine cooling systems, then looking at: electric motors, mirrors and steering systems. All reviews include exclusive interviews with some of the major suppliers in their chosen fields.
January / February management briefing
Outlook for the automotive industry in 2009
If ever there was a time when everyone wants to know what lies around the corner for the automotive industry, now is that time. This now annual outlook to the year ahead is just-auto's take on the big issues facing the industry, across the world. Whilst we can't claim to have the answers to all the questions right now, we hope this latest briefing written by Dave Leggett will provide some insight as to what may lie ahead. The briefing takes each major region in turn and provides corporate summaries for the major VMs.
December
management briefing
just-auto’s review of 2008
What a year! Business as usual it was not. The economy took the headlines and there was no getting away from that. Maybe we should simply be grateful that the banks still function and that complete international financial meltdown was apparently avoided. Let’s just say that at the beginning of the year things looked under control – we were looking at a ‘managed slowdown’ for the global economy and the auto industry was very much a part of that. But by the end of the year, major companies were struggling to keep their heads above water in the face of collapsed automotive markets. Read Dave's review of one of the most significant years the auto industry has experienced.
November
management briefing
India automotive market review
India's automotive industry has a very different dynamic to the other three BRIC markets. Like Brazil, Russia and China, India has experienced rapid growth in the past decade. But the problem in India is infrastructure. Written by just-auto emerging markets specialist Mark Bursa, this briefing examines the status of the industry and its prospects. It includes market data, an assessment of government policy, intelligence on ultra-low cost cars and a summary of manufacturer activity.
October
management briefing
Low-cost cars: opportunities and challenges
This month, we are offering our subscribers the opportunity to sample another of just-auto’s market research reports: Low-cost cars: opportunities and challenges. This takes the place of a management briefing - we hope you find it interesting and informative. If you like what you read and would like to find out more about just-auto's latest reports, feel free to drop Kathryn an email at kathryn.wedgbury@just-auto.com.
September
management briefing
The future for hydrogen in automotive transportation
Ten years ago, the dream of a hydrogen economy, with hydrogen used to power vehicles and homes, was 10-20 years away. Ten years later and a hydrogen economy is still decades away. Despite advances in fuel-cell technology development and a raised awareness of the need to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, barriers to a hydrogen economy remain – not least the lack of a viable hydrogen supply infrastructure and concerns over the well-to-wheel benefits of hydrogen. This month's briefing looks at how realistic a short-term adoption of auto hydrogen power is, reviewing what the key manufacturers are working on, Government policy and which markets might be closer to reality than we think.
August
management briefing
just-auto’s sector research review
In this, the second edition of our now annual sector research review, we round up some findings from some of just-auto’s recently published market sector research reports. So far this year, we’ve released three brand new titles as well as ten updates of established titles. The rest of 2008 is going to be busy as we’ve planned another nine title updates and four more new titles. Watch this space, as they say.
July
management briefing
Counterfeit car parts in the global auto industry
The global market for counterfeit vehicle parts has grown exponentially over the last five years to be worth US$16bn worldwide and is growing at an estimated 9-11% a year, as organised crime shifts into counterfeiting over other forms of revenue. With counterfeiters becoming increasingly sophisticated, in not only production but also in marketing (monitoring regional car markets to fill supply gaps), car and other vehicle manufacturers and the authorities are struggling to identify counterfeits and curb the problem in the face of such an onslaught. just-auto reports from a gateway market for these parts – the Middle East; a prime secondary market – North America; and the source of the problem – China.
June
management briefing
An analysis of the top global automotive manufacturing platforms
Analysis shows that Volkswagen and Toyota remained masters of platform strategies in 2007. A significant development is that the Renault-Nissan Alliance is now finally starting to take full advantage of sharing technologies across its brands, and now has two platforms in the top ten ranking. This is the latest edition of our annual review of the world's top manufacturing platforms. Using the latest data gathered by The PwC Automotive Institute, the briefing shows the top ten platforms' volumes from 2004 to 2007, ranks the top 50 platforms' 2005 to 2007 volume data and provides analysis of the top platforms from the likes of Volkswagen, Toyota, Renault, Ford, GM and Honda.
May
management briefing
Turkey automotive market review
Turkey’s strategic position at the junction of Europe and Asia has taken on new symbolism in recent times. Turkey wants to become part of the European Union, but EU member states are nervous of allowing a country so culturally distinct from Europe to join the party. Turkey primarily produces vehicles for export, with 74.6% of local finished vehicle production shipped overseas. In total, vehicle exports grew by 18% to 820,370 units in 2007 and Turkish auto analysts are forecasting this will hit 1m units in the next couple of years. This briefing looks at the geopolitics, the economic links to Europe and the auto industry in detail. We provide manufacturer activity and a full range of historic vehicle production and sales data.
April
management briefing
ASEAN automotive market review
Despite political turmoil in its biggest market and the threat of a global recession, sales in the ASEAN trading bloc showed strong growth in 2007, and forecasts in this briefing suggest that combined vehicle sales in ASEAN’s top three markets could be expected to reach 1.71m units in 2008. In this month’s briefing we profile five of these countries, namely Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, The Philippines and Vietnam. We investigate their market dynamics, main manufacturer activity and vehicle sales.
March
management briefing
Mercosur automotive market review
The good times have returned to Mercosur’s car market. The Brazilian market set a new record of 2.5m car sales last year, an increase of 28% on 2006, and the year-end total was higher than even the pre-economic crisis benchmark set in 1997. Much the same is also true in Argentina, where increased demand has resulted in mothballed car plants being brought back to life. In this month’s briefing we investigate the future prospects of this market, and focus on developments in the Brazil/Argentina free-trade agreement, components problems and investments in facilities. Eleven manufacturer profiles are also provided, and they comment on the company’s movements in the market, and their plans for the future. Sales and production data for the Brazilian and Argentinean markets is also included.
February
management briefing
Biofuels: A quick-fix or a long-term alternative for the automotive industry?
In this month’s briefing we investigate Biofuels, what they are, and what their role in the future is. We briefly look at the current contention within the food industry regarding ‘food versus fuel’, before moving on to discuss the drivers behind the surging interest in biofuel production, and the arguments for and against their development. Finally we highlight some of the recent investment, research and development activity from leading players in the global automotive market.
January
management briefing
Outlook for the automotive industry in 2008
As we enter 2008, there's a sense that this will be an eventful year - both in the world generally and in the automotive industry. The US light vehicle market is widely expected to fall back, and as far as demand goes, Western Europe also seems set for a sluggish year. Once again, 2008 looks set to be a year in which the big emerging markets continue to grab the headlines - and little wonder with China's economy still growing at 10% per annum, and India continuing to show great promise, both as a market in its own right and as a low-cost manufacturing location. In this month's briefing we take a look at the year ahead, with a focus on the North American, European and Japanese markets. We give an overview of the emerging markets India, Russia and China, plus we provide corporate summaries for some of the main vehicle manufacturers.
December
management briefing
just-auto’s review of 2007
Looking back over the year just gone is always an absorbing experience. 2007 was another eventful one in an industry at the forefront of some of the megatrends of our time. Emerging markets were very much at the centre of things again, especially with sluggish demand prospects in Western Europe and North America not helped by the subprime mortgage crisis and subsequent credit crunch. This briefing provides a review of some of the main news items and some eye-catching oddities that appeared on just-auto in 2007.
November
management briefing
Central and Eastern Europe automotive market review
As Western Europe stagnates, the new EU members from Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) have contributed what little growth there is in the 2007 European car market. In this month's briefing we include sales data for the top ten brands and models in CEE up to September this year, along with CEE car production forecasts though to 2013. Central and Eastern Europe was also the region of biggest market growth for light commercial vehicles (LCVs), so we provide a brief look a their sales in selected markets, offer an overview of the manufacturing sector with a look at some of the major new investments, and consider the activities of the main manufacturers in this region.
October
management briefing
China automotive market review
The Chinese market is continuing to grow strongly. Total auto sales in China rose 24.46% in the first nine months of 2007 to 6.46m units, with output up 22.78% at 6.51m units, according to data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM). But, is the shine starting to wear off the Chinese market? The market is still booming, but the period of major inward investment by global automakers seems to be drawing to a close, and with most of the world's established automakers now present in the Chinese market, the job in hand now is to make those factories pay their way. This month's briefing provides information on the growth and dynamics of the market. We take a look at vehicle production and exports to the US and Western Europe, and provide commentary on foreign JV activity and major developments at other Chinese automakers, from BYD to Shanghai Automotive.
September
management briefing
The South African automotive industry
This month, we take a look at vehicle production in South Africa. It is the second biggest industry in South Africa, and one of its fastest-growing sectors, with vehicle exports now accounting for nearly 7% of the country's exports. We include an overview with the Industry Development Programme (MIDP), including Q&A's with key executives. Strategic planning consultant Johan Cloete, who has been working on the review of the MIDP, explains his vision for 2020, and we talk to Ken Manners, president of the component suppliers' association NAACAM about the challenges facing the South African automotive industry.
September
management briefing
Bonus management briefing: The Low-Cost Car: Reasons, Rewards, Risks
Several vehicle makers are developing strategies for emerging markets centred on 'low-cost cars'. Renault's Logan car is one prominent example of the new breed. But are vehicle makers seeking to adopt such strategies clearly aware of the risks to profitability on these programmes? What exactly is a low-cost car anyway? Consultant Glenn Mercer delivered this downloadable presentation at a recent SupplierBusiness conference that took place in Frankfurt.
August
management briefing
Review of the top 20 global automotive engine families
This month's briefing is the latest of just-auto's regular in-depth look at the top 20 engine families worldwide in 2006. Engines are much easier to organise into families than platforms, and as such all vehicle manufacturers have a series of high-volume engine families. The report explains which engines are covered by which family and where possible, considers how they are likely to evolve in the future. Tables in the report show top 20 engine families by production volume, ranked by 2006, data for 2004, 2005 and 2006 (units) and their largest model application.
July
management briefing
An analysis of the top global automotive manufacturing platforms
The 2006 edition of this briefing was so popular, we decided to bring out an updated version again this year! In it we analyse the top global automotive manufacturers' approaches to platform strategy, particularly Renault Nissan, Volkswagen, Toyota, GM, Fiat and Ford. The briefing also includes the top 50 global automotive platforms for 2006, and discusses where platforms have gone wrong. We give an overview of the emerging markets, and take a look at the development of current platforms that are designed to be used for more than one model cycle.
June
management briefing
just-auto’s sector research review
This month’s briefing is our first edition of just-auto’s sector research review. In it, we round up findings from some of our recently published reports, such as driver assistance systems; exhaust systems, truck manufacturing and transmissions. So, as well as providing you with some valuable research findings, we get to show off our fast expanding portfolio of reports!
May
management briefing
In it for the money, who’s making it? A financial review of the world’s top car groups
It has been an extraordinary year for the car industry. During 2006, comparative valuations of the major companies swung around massively as shareholders tried to get to grips with which stocks would survive the structural changes that are sweeping through the sector. In this briefing, the last in our series of financial reviews, we look at the cost of technology changes for the car industry, focusing on climate change and other environmental issues. We include an overview of the competitive pressures, such as price competition, and we provide market share data for major vehicle groups. Chapter 4 looks at the financial status and changes in management for major manufacturers including VW, GM, Renault, PSA Peugeot, Citroën, BMW, Fiat, Ford and DaimlerChrysler.
May
management briefing
Bonus management briefing: Interview with Ford's Mark Fields
As Ford’s ‘President of the Americas’, Mark Fields carries considerable responsibility for the ‘Way Forward’ turnaround plan for North America that is designed to see Ford reverse the heavy losses being incurred in its home market. just-auto editor Dave Leggett recently interviewed Mark Fields at his office in Dearborn.
April
management briefing
Automotive 4WD transmissions: technology, markets, suppliers and manufacturers – forecasts to 2012
This month, we thought we’d offer our subscribers the opportunity to sample one of just-auto’s global market research reports: the 2006 edition of our 4WD transmissions report. This takes the place of a management briefing. Currently priced at £595, we hope you find it interesting and informative. If you like what you read and would like to find out more about just-auto’s latest reports, feel free to drop Holly an email at holly.nash@just-auto.com
March
management briefing
ASEAN automotive market review
This month, just-auto looks at the progress of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It was established in Bangkok on 8 August 1967 to provide the framework for a free trade bloc for the growing Asian ‘Tiger economies’. The five original member states were Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, but since then, the group has grown to ten nations, with Brunei joining in 1984, then Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar (formerly Burma), and most recently Cambodia. The briefing profiles five of these countries and their market dynamics, with commentary on main manufacturer activity and vehicle production, sales, and import and export data.
February
management briefing
Latin America automotive market review
This month's briefing reviews the Latin American automotive market. With 86% of cars and light commercial vehicles sold in Brazil in 2006 running on petrol or ethanol, just-auto looks at the domination of flex fuels in the Brazilian market. The report introduces the Brazil-Argentina trade accord, a new two-year "flex agreement" allowing US$195 of duty-free car imports for every US$100 of exports. It highlights how global vehicle makers are recognising the small car R&D skill base, and are starting to entrust development of small cars to Brazilian technical centres. This is backed up by car production and sales data, plus commentary on manufacturer strategies.
January
management briefing
Outlook for the automotive industry in 2007
What are the big issues for 2007? January’s briefing, written by just-auto managing editor Dave Leggett, focuses on key trends in the major automotive markets of North America, Europe and Asia. Emerging markets China, India, Russia and Brazil are also included, plus we analyse manufacturer performance, and industrial developments. It offers a concise summary of what we can expect this year to throw at us, in terms of the big picture.
December
management briefing
just-autos' review of 2006
This is just-auto managing editor Dave Leggett's review of the automotive industry in 2006. It is concisely presented month-by-month so you can be sure you haven't missed any of the important issues of the last year. From January through December, he chronicles the events that shaped the automotive year in the global automotive industry as well as some of the more quirky happenings. And, as you might expect, there are also some irreverent musings. It was a year in which GM and Ford both implemented North American restructuring programmes, but there was added drama too. For GM there was boardroom turmoil involving Kirk Kerkorian, Rick Wagoner and an outsider called Carlos Ghosn who sniffed an opportunity. Meanwhile, at Ford, an M&A man was brought in to advise on sell-offs and Alan Mulally from Boeing was parachuted in as CEO. There was drama too in Europe. At market leading Volkswagen boardroom disagreements deepened as the management negotiated flexible working arrangements with German labour unions. Behind the scenes, Ferdinand Piech appeared to play a Machiavellian game that increased Porsche’s influence at VW and culminated in the abrupt exit of CEO Bernd Pischetsrieder. And volume growth in China kept everyone excited, as usual – but in 2006 Russia joined the emerging markets bandwagon as its market boomed and new factories were announced. Yes, another busy year.
November
management briefing
Central and Eastern Europe automotive market review
If sales managers in those countries in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) countries which joined the European Union in May 2004 thought that their accession status would lead to a boom in car sales, they had another think coming. Sales in the main new EU member states with substantial car production have been as flat as those in the 15 established EU member states this year. This month’s briefing provides sales data to September this year, and production figures with forecasts to 2012, accompanied by analysis of development in the market, scope for growth and increased demand for new vehicles. It also considers activities of manufacturers in this region; who despite flat sales are increasing their capacity.
October
management briefing
China automotive market review 2006
As sales growth continues in China, the boom-and-bust upward curve of recent years has steadied, and in the first half of 2006, China's light vehicle sales, including imports, grew 27% to 3.6m units. This means that China is on course to overtake Japan in 2006 to become the second-largest market in terms of world vehicle sales. This month’s briefing looks at China’s vehicle sales growth, export plans, and the need to supply a growing domestic market. Plus, the “design piracy” issue that continues to vex foreign automakers operating in China, and a proposed new Chinese government rule that could force foreign automakers to share their designs with their Chinese automaker partners. Also included are brief overviews of foreign manufacturer movements in China, from General Motors to Mitsubishi and Chinese independents.
Bonus September
management briefing
Bonus Briefing: Interview with SMMT CEO Chris Macgowan
The UK automotive industry’s trade association, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), looks after the collective interests of its company members and also organises the British International Motor Show, held this year in London. The SMMT’s chief executive, Christopher Macgowan spoke exclusively to the just-auto editor Dave Leggett just ahead of the London Motor Show.
September
management briefing
A review of the top 20 automotive OEM suppliers’ product development
In the last couple of years, the automotive industry has been witness to intense levels of strategic business activities undertaken by players worldwide. In addition to shifting manufacturing bases to low-cost regions, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have identified product innovation as a key long-term measure to enhance their market shares. Advanced technology and product development initiatives are becoming critical issues on which all automakers are focusing. They have increased focus on research and development (R&D) considerably, which has enabled them to develop cutting-edge products and technologies that ultimately satisfy the needs of the end-user. This briefing reviews the developments and trends in the automotive components industry, and discusses new product initiatives undertaken by the top 20 component manufacturers worldwide
August
management briefing
Global market review of light commercial vehicles – forecasts to 2009
This month, we thought we’d offer our subscribers the opportunity to sample one of just-auto’s global market research reports: the 2005 edition of our Global market review of light commercial vehicles – forecasts to 2009. This takes the place of a management briefing. Currently priced at £597, we hope you find it interesting and informative. If you like what you read and would like to find out more about just-auto’s latest reports, feel free to drop Holly an email at holly.nash@just-auto.com
July
management briefing
An analysis of the top global automotive manufacturing platforms
There have been a number of significant changes to the top ten global platforms in 2005, with Volkswagen’s A5 platform taking the top-spot, having achieved a volume not far short of 2m units. This briefing analyses the top global automotive manufacturers approaches to platform strategy, particularly Ford, Toyota and General Motors. The briefing also discusses the increased role of electronics on major component sub-systems, the advantages and disadvantages of a platform policy, and answers the question ‘are the top ranking platforms really global?’
June
management briefing
A review of Indias' automotive industry
This month’s briefing looks at Indias' automotive industry, it gives a political and economic overview, light vehicle market, and the manufacturing and components industry. The manufacturing sector has registered a steady growth in the past few years. Exports of manufactured goods from India surpassed US$22bn in 2005, up from US$6bn in 2000, and the Indian automotive supplier industry’s sales are expected to grow by around 14% in 2006 and 15 to 16% in 2007. Growth would be driven by strong demand for automobiles in the country, and high growth in exports of components. India is fast becoming a global outsourcing and strong skills base, and with the emergence of Indian suppliers into the global market, the Indian manufacturing industry is gearing up for expansion.
May
management briefing
Auto shows digest – the latest concept cars from Frankfurt, Tokyo, Detroit and Geneva
This report covers four motor shows – the Frankfurt IAA and Tokyo in 2005, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit and the Geneva auto salon in 2006. It highlights the interesting, the feasible and the not so feasible. It looks at both the design and the technology of the best of the 2005/06 crop of concepts. Through a series of interviews with top designers, the briefing gives a unique insight into current thinking on both design and technology.
April
management briefing
In it for the money, who’s making it?
As we enter the new financial year, the financial strength of the global auto industry is fragmenting geographically. This month’s management briefing is just-auto’s annual review of the world’s most popular car groups; providing you with all the key facts and figures from the last 12 months. The report begins with an overview of the industry’s major geographic regions and their respective best-selling manufacturers, including how productive efficiency, innovation, cost reduction and margins reflect on profitability, financial results and volume growth. The main part of the briefing provides detailed comparisons of the major car makers’ financial status, namely: BMW, Volkswagen, Daimler Chrysler, Renault-Nissan, GM, Ford, Toyota, PSA Peugeot Citreon, Fiat and Porsche. This includes a composite table showing financial, industrial and stock performance, with analysis for each company. Other data includes selected operating profits, unit sales, year-on-year % change and trading profits.
March
management briefing
just-autos' Latin America automotive industry review
Latin America has staged something of a comeback as an emerging market that was previously overshadowed by the explosive growth of China, and the enlargement of the European Union into Central Europe. Looking at the Mercosur region, particularly Argentina, this briefing highlights the performance, development and recovery of each countrys' auto industry, along with strategies of key automakers.
February
management briefing
Review of the top 20 global automotive engine families
Due to popular demand we thought it would be rude not to update last year's review of the top 20 automotive engine families. Like vehicle manufacturing, the engine manufacturing sector is under pressure to maximise economies of scale by using common components and modules. Where vehicle manufacturers look to develop vehicles using a common 'platform' or architecture, engines belong to families, which employ a similar construction. Defining what makes a group of engines a family can be just as subjective as defining platforms, if not more so. PricewaterhouseCoopers AUTOFACTS compiles databases of engine manufacture to a high level of detail and conducts analysis based on these data, which includes engine family characteristics, and it is their data that we have come to rely on to present a concise overview of the sector in this management briefing.
January
management briefing
The outlook for the automotive industry in 2006
Hot on the heels of our review of the auto industry in 2005, this is just-auto’s assessment of the outlook for the automotive industry in 2006. The briefing, written by just-auto managing editor Dave Leggett, focuses on key developments in the automotive markets and industries of North America, Europe and Asia. There is analysis of the vehicle demand outlook, manufacturer performance, major new models and other industrial developments ahead. It offers a concise summary of what we can expect 2006 to throw at us, in terms of the big picture.
December
management briefing
just-autos' review of 2005
This is just-auto managing editor Dave Leggett's review of the automotive industry in 2005. It is concisely presented month-by-month so you can be sure you haven't missed any of the important issues of the last year. From January through December, he chronicles the events that shaped the automotive year in the global automotive industry as well as some of the more quirky happenings. And, as you might expect, there are also some irreverent musings. It was the year that Delphi filed for Chapter 11, the management at DaimlerChrysler played musical chairs and GM finally split with Fiat. And let's not forget the kaleidoscope of captivating new products, from the SsangYong Rodius to the Bugatti Veyron. Yes, another busy year.
November
management briefing
just-autos' Central and Eastern Europe automotive industry review
This months' briefing looks at the activities of the major players in Europe. It highlights how Korean manufacturers Hyundai and Kia are becoming dominant players in Central Europe, PSA and Toyotas' joint venture is setting standards for production efficiency, the shift of the major players’ production of new models from Central Europe to Poland, the return of Skoda, the production of more basic and affordable vehicles to target emerging markets, and Renault’s major regional presence in Romania. Russia is identified as the next market to show great potential growth, having a population of 142m but a car ownership rate of only 167 vehicles per thousand inhabitants. The briefing outlines how the government is making Russia an attractive investment destination for automakers, which are investing, and the struggle of domestic producers.
October
management briefing
just-autos' China automotive manufacturing review
After the slump in the Chinese vehicle market of recent years, there are signs that the world’s largest automotive growth market opportunity is once again swinging into an accelerated growth phase. The market is being ignited by manufacturer actions such as price cuts on selected models and that is reflected in differing company and market segmentation performances. This briefing examines key developments in the Chinese vehicle market and their implications for vehicle makers, identifying winners and losers. As the Chinese auto industry seeks to modernise in line with international standards, there is also a section on regulatory changes, including an examination of a proposed ‘gas-guzzler’ tax and amendments to rules governing minicars. The briefing also considers the burgeoning export ambitions of the largest Chinese domestic makers and provides a manufacturer-by-manufacturer guide to current performance and prospects.
September
management briefing
An overview of South Africa’s automotive industry
This briefing begins by looking at the demographics of South Africa, and stability of its economy, which is set to boost growth in the motor industry. It examines the investments that vehicle manufacturers have made in South Africa already in 2005, through opening new manufacturing plants. It also highlights the potential difficulties faced by manufacturers, in a continent where used vehicle imports are stifling hopes of selling new cars. According to independent analyst Johan Cloete "Used cars, especially RHD from Japan, are being dumped all over Africa and new cars cannot compete with those prices." This briefing identifies a need to bring Africa to European standards of education, improve quality and invest in technology, so that it can successfully compete with the used car market.
August
management briefing
A review of Indias' automotive industry
Indias' changing demographics, class shift and increasing salaries between 2000 and 2005 have significantly influenced car sales. Factors such as these combined with urbanisation, more accessible and affordable car finance and an improving road network will provide opportunities for manufacturers. This month’s briefing begins with an overview of India, its demographics, consumer behaviour, SWOT analysis, and a political and economic overview. It looks specifically at the light vehicle market, in terms of passenger car penetration, the focus of India’s ‘Big Three’ on small cars, and the segmentation of the market. Manufacturing is also discussed with brief profiles of the major players and their activity. The final section focuses on the components industry and the development of this area due to freer trade, the country’s strong skill base and competence on a global stage.
July
management briefing
An analysis of the top global automotive platforms
Platform strategies are now integral to OEMs product development, and as old models are replaced, the proportion of production that is based on key high volume platforms is increasing. This year's review from just-auto shows that there are more high volume platforms than a year ago and that Toyota and PSA are currently leading other OEMs in terms of making platforms work for them. The briefing, which is an update of the first edition in August 2004, looks at the increase in platform usage, the resultant decrease in costs, and provides an analyses of models per platform for the major OEMs: Toyota, PSA Peugeot-Citroen, Volkswagen, GM, Honda, Ford, Renault-Nissan, Hyundai, BMW and DaimlerChrysler.
June
management briefing
Challenges and forward strategies for the global automotive supplier sector
Recent high-profile corporate failures in North America, most notably Meridian Automotive Systems, Tower Automotive and Collins & Aikman, highlight how things can go wrong for suppliers in the automotive industry. Declining profitability and margins are a result of factors such as vehicle assembly overcapacity, the need to discount less popular models, profit squeezes at OEMs, and price declines for their components, systems, and modules, coupled with higher costs associated with greater product development and logistics responsibilities. This month’s briefing looks at the challenges faced by automotive suppliers, through a growing array of selection criteria imposed by OEM customers, and the associated financial concerns. It also provides an industry background, in terms of production trends, the way forward for tier 1 suppliers, globalisation, and M&A activity.
May
management briefing
Car sharing and car clubs: opportunity or threat for the automotive industry?
In the 21st century the proliferation of cars is becoming a serious issue, and there is a strong ecological case for governments to apply constraints to decrease unnecessary journeys. This briefing looks at the introduction of and benefits of lift share and car club schemes, as well as discussing the effects they will have on the automotive industry, in terms of new car manufacturers, new car retailers, the servicing industry, vehicle replacement cycles and short term hire companies. It profiles the people who are most likely to embrace this style of travel, outlines exactly how the schemes will operate, and provides case studies of how they are currently in use in the USA, Switzerland and The UK.
April
management briefing
Auto shows digest – the latest concept cars from Geneva, Detroit and Paris
This month's management briefing rounds up the latest major concept cars from the leading international auto shows: Geneva, March 2005; Detroit, January 2005; and Paris, September 2004. Authors Chris Wright and Tony Lewis have been manning the shows for just-auto to bring you nearly forty car profiles with pictures of everything weird and wonderful from the leading VMs' drawing boards. From Swiss manufacturers Rinspeed's futuristic offerings to Smart's "cool & cosy" and "hot & tropic", this report presents all that's hot (and cool) in concept world.
March
management briefing
In it for the money, who’s making it? – A financial review of the world’s top ten car groups
The financial performance of the world’s Top Ten car groups is settling into an interesting pattern. Financial results now being reported for 2004 are beginning to show that the more brands and subsidiaries companies are trying to manage, the worse their results. It could be coincidence but it is a near perfect correlation and the pattern has been taking shape for a little while. The numbers also confirm that a wayward subsidiary can hurt you a very great deal – even if it is small relative to the parent and even if it is just a minority shareholding. It holds therefore, that the more you have the more it can hurt, and the more frequently. This month's briefing, written by automotive financial expert Rob Golding looks in-depth at the world's Top Ten groups and analyses their financial situations.
February
management briefing
Review of the top 20 automotive engine families
Like vehicle manufacturing, the engine manufacturing sector is under pressure to maximise economies of scale by using common components and modules. Where vehicle manufacturers look to develop vehicles using a common ‘platform’ or architecture, engines belong to families, which employ a similar construction. Defining what makes a group of engines a family can be just as subjective as defining platforms, if not more so. To belong to the same family, engines should have common bore centres (similar to hard points on a vehicle's platform). This means there could be diesel and gasoline engines in the same family, for example. They could have different valve train and cylinder configurations and different layouts (in-line or vee). In some instances they could also have different cylinder block materials. This analysis includes engine families data from PwC Autofacts.
January
management briefing
The outlook for the automotive industry in 2005
The first management briefing of the year takes a look at prospects for the automotive industry globally in 2005. Written by just-auto’s managing editor Dave Leggett, the briefing considers the major issues ahead for vehicle markets, vehicle manufacturers and the industry as a whole. The briefing is structured region-by-region and includes Dave’s views on a variety of region-specific topics and issues. Questions asked include: Will incentives continue unabated in North America and will the price war spread to Europe? What will happen to the dollar exchange rate and who will be hurting most and what can they do about it? What are the risks to China’s booming market and industry in 2005? Where next for GM and Fiat? And what will be happening in Russia this year? The briefing is intended to give the reader a concise overview of the challenges and opportunities facing the automotive industry in 2005.
December management briefing
just-auto's review of 2004
November management briefing
China auto industry review, 2004 edition
October management briefing
Tier 0.5 manufacturers, where are you?
September management briefing
A review of the European tyre market
August management briefing
An analysis of the top 100 global automotive manufacturing platforms
Bonus July management briefing
Interview with Ford's Nick Scheele
July management briefing
South Africa's auto industry at a crossroads
Bonus June management briefing
Polish Automarket in Figures
June management briefing
European Light Commercial Vehicle market review
May management briefing
A review of flexible automotive manufacturing
April management briefing
Fuel cells - today and tomorrow
March management briefing
Central Europe - automotive markets and trends
February management briefing
India's developing automotive markets and industry
January management briefing
The automotive industry in 2004 – Strategic challenges and opportunities ahead
December management briefing:
just-auto's review of 2003
November management briefing:
The Chinese car market
October management briefing:
The changing face of automotive retailing in Europe
September management briefing:
Racing improves the breed - or does it?
Bonus September management briefing:
Issue 1 of SupplierBusiness.com's supply base newsletter
August management briefing:
Japanese Vehicle Manufacturers: where to from here?
July management briefing:
Drive-by-wire: ready, but not yet
June management briefing:
Recent developments in the automotive production chain
Bonus June management briefing:
Global Sourcing Issues
May management briefing:
Telematics
April management briefing:
Concept Cars
March management briefing:
Automotive Powertrains
February management briefing:
The Global Aftermarket
Bonus February management briefing:
OEM Sourcing Strategies
January management briefing:
The automotive industry in 2003 - strategic challenges and opportunities ahead
Bonus January management briefing:
A review of the automotive industry in 2002
