The automotive industry as a whole (automotive producers, supply chain and aftermarket, including thousands of SMEs) is of strategic importance to the European economy, representing 12 million direct and indirect jobs, 4% of GDP and a €90 billion trade surplus (in 2011).
Autööstus pakub otseselt ja kaudselt tööd 12 miljonile inimesele, moodustab 4% SKP-st ja tema kaubandusbilansi ülejääk on 90 miljardit eurot (2011. aasta andmed).