In a recent opinion piece for WELT, Christian Dustmann and Jan Knuf analyzed the challenges and opportunities facing Germany’s automotive industry amidst the ongoing shift toward electric vehicles.
The authors highlighted the structural changes transforming the sector, noting that traditional strengths in mechanical engineering and combustion engine manufacturing are becoming less critical as value creation shifts to batteries and software. They emphasized that the current competitive edge lies in electro-chemical and digital expertise, areas where Germany has historically been less dominant.
Despite these hurdles, Dustmann and Knuf expressed cautious optimism. They pointed to Germany’s highly skilled workforce, bolstered by the country’s dual vocational training system, which has historically enabled rapid workforce adaptation during periods of industrial change.
For the full article in German, please visit the WELT page here.
