North German ports: Key to the success story of car exports!

North German ports: Key to the success story of car exports!

What is happening in the German automotive industry? The upcoming IAA Mobility motor show in Munich is getting closer and closer, and with it the awareness of the crucial role of northern German seaports is growing. The Central Association of German Seaport Companies emphasizes how important these ports are for the entire industry. “The global presence of the automotive industry would simply be unthinkable without the ports,” says Matthias Magnor, member of the ZDS executive board. Loud Boyen's Media 3.4 million cars were exported last year - that's almost 80 percent of the vehicles produced in Germany. Most of these exports pass through the German seaports, especially Bremerhaven and Emden, which have established themselves as key locations for automobile transshipment.

But it's not just exports that are crucial. The ports are also the backbone for the import of vehicles, spare parts and supplier products from abroad. Magnor emphasizes that German ports make a significant contribution to the economic power of the mobility industry and to the country's foreign trade. However, the industry is not without challenges: “We are under pressure from a weak Chinese market and falling e-car sales,” explains Magnor, referring to the ongoing tariff dispute with the USA.

The IAA Mobility 2023: A sign of change

The IAA Mobility is taking place in Munich for the third time this week and seems to be a signal of departure for the industry. The first IAA Mobility in 2021 was still characterized by the corona pandemic, while the second in 2023 was already dominated by strong Chinese exhibitors such as BYD. But this year the German manufacturers are optimistic: BMW is presenting the electric iX3, while Mercedes is proudly showing off its new GLC, which is set to set new standards in range and software. The competition never sleeps, and domestic car manufacturers are hoping for a comeback BR.

The strengths and challenges of the German automotive industry become clear when looking at its international competitors. Chinese manufacturers who want to position themselves more strongly on the German market are also present in Munich. With a new plant in Hungary, BYD wants to avoid EU import tariffs and expand its market shares in Germany. But despite the challenging environment, interest in sustainable and digital mobility remains high, as the many visitors to the IAA show.

Vision and future

The feeling of optimism in the automotive industry is palpable. The VDA (Association of the Automotive Industry) speaks of a determined industry that is ready to master future challenges and set standards in global competition. The IAA Mobility is seen as a place where important dialogues arise between politics, society and business in order to achieve climate-neutral mobility. IAA Mobility has demonstrated its confidence in the future of the German automotive industry several times; Images from Munich reflect the desire to inspire people with concepts and solutions.

In summary, the automotive industry is at a turning point. The challenges are great, but with combined forces and innovative approaches, Germany is ready to continue to exist as a car country in the future and to make a contribution to both people and the country's prosperity.