Die unsichere Zukunft der Produktionsarbeit in Deutschland. Das Leitwerkkonzept und die Krise in der Automobilzuliefererindustrie

The German automotive supply industry is under pressure from a massive slump in demand, the transition to electromobility, the decline of exports and increasing competition from low-wage countries. This calls into question the future viability of production sites with lead plant functions. The article examines the current significance of the lead plant concept in the German automotive supply industry, how lead plants are adapting to technological change and what role works councils play in this process. The analysis is based on two works council surveys from 2016 and 2024. The results show that around one third of sites continue to have lead plant functions. These sites are driving forward the development of new products for electromobility at an above-average rate and have a more stable employment trend. However, there are signs of erosion of locational advantages, particularly through the relocation of product development. Early involvement of works councils favours innovation activities. In the long term, industrial policy measures are required to successfully shape the adaptation strategies of these companies.