Innovation networks in the automotive industry: an empirical study in Germany

In this paper, we address the issues of the need for and the future of innovation networks in the automotive sector. Specifically, the aim of the study is to explore the frequency of the occurrence of innovation networks in the automotive industry and identify the status quo of their management practices. Through a series of semistructured interviews with the managers involved in 39 innovation networks, we present insights into network approaches and strategies. The empirical survey is able to confirm that innovation networks can help raise the degree of innovativeness in German and European automobile companies. It can be expected that innovation networks will constantly spread further and gain more importance in the coming years. Also, the most important goals that the involved companies aimed to realise by engaging in innovation networks included flexible access to technologies, intensified contact with clients and markets and the long-term bonding of suppliers and clients. Three innovation network examples are given to illustrate the variety of their employment.