The Importance of Automotive Suppliers: The Power List 100
Suppliers are the often-overlooked backbone of the automotive industry. Without them, it would be impossible to manufacture a car. In recent years, the role of suppliers has become even more crucial as the industry faces challenges from the Covid pandemic and geopolitical crises. Recognizing their significance, Autocar presents the Power List 100, sponsored by Keyloop, which celebrates the most influential supplier chiefs in the sector.
From established German giants like Bosch and Continental to emerging battery manufacturing leaders from China such as CATL, these individuals wield enormous influence over the car industry. Let’s take a closer look at some of the supplier chiefs featured in the Power List 100.
Seetarama Kotagiri, CEO of Magna International, heads one of the industry’s largest manufacturers. Magna builds vehicle bodies, powertrains, seating systems, and more. In addition to components, Magna is responsible for manufacturing high-ticket cars like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and BMW Z4. With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Kotagiri has been instrumental in Magna’s success.
Yoonho Choi, CEO of Samsung SDI, has positioned the firm as one of the most important battery manufacturers for the future. Samsung has recently announced joint ventures with General Motors and Stellantis to play a crucial role in electrifying the North American car market. Choi is also rumored to be preparing for the production of cylindrical cells in Hungary for BMW’s next-generation EVs.
Holger Klein, CEO of ZF Friedrichshafen, leads the world’s third-largest automotive supplier through a generational transformation as the industry shifts towards electric vehicles. ZF is diversifying its business away from producing hardware and expanding into software solutions. Klein recognizes the impact of industry newcomers like Lucid, Nio, and Tesla and embraces their rapid development.
Sung Hwan Cho, CEO of Hyundai Mobis, aims to make Hyundai a leader in autonomous driving technology, connected cars, and electrification. The company has unveiled innovative technologies like in-wheel motors and a roll-out infotainment display. Under Cho’s leadership, Hyundai Mobis recorded $29 billion in sales last year, making it the world’s sixth-largest automotive supplier.
Stefan Hartung, CEO of Robert Bosch, combines his extensive experience with a passion for technology to lead the German firm. Bosch faces the challenge of meeting the complex and dynamically changing world’s demands, particularly in reducing carbon emissions. Hartung is committed to cutting 15% of Bosch’s carbon emissions by 2030.
Koji Arima, president and CEO of Denso, has been with the company since 1981. Denso has grown to encompass 38 countries across five continents and is expanding its efforts beyond automotive fields. Arima has been instrumental in ensuring Denso meets its target of reducing CO2 emissions throughout the supply chain by 25% by 2030.
Robin Zeng, chairman of CATL, is at the forefront of making transportation sustainable. CATL is the world’s largest supplier of lithium-ion cells and has a global arsenal of production plants. Zeng started the company only 12 years ago, yet it now earns yearly revenues of nearly £3.5 billion.
Hak Cheol Shin, CEO of LG Chem, leads Korea’s largest chemicals company. Under his leadership, LG Energy Solution became Europe’s largest manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries. Shin’s focus on the energy sector has positioned LG Chem as a key player in sustainable mobility.
Yuki Kusumi, CEO of Panasonic, recognizes the social and environmental challenges faced by society. Panasonic aims to reduce carbon emissions across all sectors and accelerate technological innovations for customer well-being. Kusumi’s vision aligns with Panasonic’s commitment to keeping customers healthy, safe, and comfortable throughout their lives.
Patrick Koller, CEO of Forvia, successfully led the recovery and growth of the French company. With expertise in sustainable mobility and cockpit experiences, Koller is accelerating plans to develop safe and sustainable mobility solutions for the future.
Nikolai Setzer, CEO of Continental, is guiding the company’s transformation into a technology and software company. Setzer’s deep bond with Continental’s values and his experience in various executive roles make him the ideal leader for this transition.
Christophe Perillat, CEO of Valeo, brings a wealth of experience to his role. His challenge is to guide Valeo through its ‘Move Up’ plan, targeting revenue of around €27.5 billion by 2025.
The Power List 100 is compiled based on criteria such as global reach and influence, spending power, technological influence, and market capitalization. The top 10 are ranked, while the remaining 90 names are grouped into categories. The list was curated by the editors of Autocar Business, a B2B product designed to bring industry readers closer to the inner workings and key players of the global automotive industry.
Suppliers play a vital role in the automotive industry, and the Power List 100 recognizes their influence and contributions. These supplier chiefs are driving innovation, shaping the future of mobility, and ensuring the industry’s sustainability. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, their leadership will be instrumental in navigating the challenges ahead.
The full Power List 100 will be available for download on October 18th.