Automobile Industry
A Huge Network of Suppliers
The automobile industry is one of Germany's key industries. Cars and automotive parts are among the country's top export products. Germany is the world champion of automotive patents: Its car companies spend ¤16 billion a year on research and development, reports the National Association of the Automotive Industry VDA.
The huge network of suppliers is one of Germany's strengths whereas other countries, score with small cars and with hybrid and alternative fuels.
To be considered before importing to the European Union (EU): Before any motor vehicle can be sold on the EU market, it must comply with the Framework Directive for Whole Vehicle Type Approval. This framework directive contains sales procedures and a list of separate directives laying down technical requirements for motor vehicles as well as for components and separate technical units from which vehicles are assembled.
Importer's assistance:
The ACEA's annual Tax Guide gives an overview of motor vehicle taxation in the twenty-five member states of the European Union. It is compiled with the help of the national associations of motor vehicle manufacturers or importers in these countries and describes the taxes that are levied e.g. on the sale of cars.
The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), founded in 1991, represents the interests of thirteen European car, truck and bus manufacturers at EU level, e.g. the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA).
Referring statistics, a directory of the automotive industry and other useful tools are made available online by the VDA.
The VDA is also a member of the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA), based in Brussels, Belgium. CLEPA is the European umbrella organization representing the interests of the global automotive supply industry. 70 suppliers for car parts, systems and modules and 20 national and European trade associations are members of CLEPA, representing more than 3,000 companies and covering all products and services within the automotive supply chain. CLEPA is recognized as the natural discussion partner by the European Institutions, United Nations and fellow associations.
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