Ernst &Young >Industries>Industry Automotive Viewpoints on key issues for the automotive industry(Copy) - Ernst & Young - Global

From identifying risks and opportunities to understanding the current investment trends, we invite you to select from the individual articles below to gain insights into the most top-of-mind issues shaping the automotive industry:

Automotive industry mega trends 
There are eight mega trends defining tomorrow’s automotive industry. Learn more about their potential impact from experts from our Global Automotive Center (pdf, 289.1kb) including Alexa Nassif (Senior Manager, based in Detroit) and Anil Valsan (Lead Automotive Analyst, based in London).

Using social media in automotive marketing
We are in the midst of a social media revolution where traditional assumptions about marketing don’t apply and the “rules” change continuously. Do you know how carmakers can use these tools? We explain the new face of automotive marketing (pdf, 220kb).

Cost management in an uncertain automotive market
Remarkably, the industry’s supply base somehow managed its costs during last year’s global economic crisis. While many companies faltered, the disruptions were surprisingly mild compared to the doomsday scenarios envisioned. How can you implement best practices that protect your company’s ability to maintain industry-leading profit margins? Find out here.

Europe’s automotive industry outlook
Last year’s scrap page programs resulted in total new-car sales of 14.5 million, only 1.6% below 2008 despite the recession. But with fewer incentives likely to continue, sales may drop by at least 10%. How can VMs and automotive suppliers adjust their business models (pdf, 66.8kb) to prepare for future opportunities? We offer some insight.

Use government incentives to grow your business
Government entities have become increasingly proactive about offering a broader range of incentives, in addition to the traditional tax breaks, to attract, grow and retain business. With so many programs available, how do you determine which one(s) best fit into your business plans? Find out what to consider and  learn how to evaluate your options (pdf, 182.3kb).

Tactics for monitoring companies further down in the supply chain
In these trying times, monitoring companies further down in the supply chain is essential, particularly those not directed by the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Have you considered implementing some form of data collection procedures for mission-critical suppliers? If one of your suppliers is in crisis, will you be prepared? Learn which procedures we recommend to assess their financial health on a predictive and proactive basis (pdf, 107kb).