Automotive InSIGHTS No. 2 (2005) - Automotive Competence Center customer magazine

Impression of this year's IAA - Focus on Russia - India's tempting but tricky auto market - Creating a sustainable car market in Brazil

Despite the glamour of automotive fairs, everyone knows that the global industry is under immense economic pressure. The vast majority of companies are busy tackling severe problems and a harsh climate. But a new promising market has emerged – Russia!

Although emerging automotive markets have not always lived up to their promise, this opportunity cannot be missed. In this second issue of Roland Berger Automotive Insights, we focus on the key challenges presented by Russia and other fast emerging automotive regions. Russia's automotive market is already the ninth-largest in the world and signs are strong that the market will continue to grow robustly at least until the end of this decade. Major players are entering the arena in droves. Significant investments in assembly plants have already been made, and many more are in the pipe line.

But the examples of South America and China show that the going won't be easy. Competition is tough and will become even more aggressive. Companies have to bear this in mind when they hammer out strategies for fast developing regions such as Russia, India and CEE. Sound information, a good under-standing of the market and experience are key for achieving success.