The branch of the economy concerned with the development, manufacture, and sale of cars and other motor vehicles.
example
Die deutsche Automobilindustrie ist weltweit für ihre hohe Qualität bekannt.
The German automotive industry is known worldwide for its high quality.
Usage tips
Word composition
This word is a clear example of a compound noun. It consists of 'Automobil' (a more formal term for 'Auto' (car)) and 'Industrie' (branch of industry).
EXAMPLE
Die Automobilindustrie investiert viel Geld in die Entwicklung von Elektroautos.
The automotive industry invests a lot of money in the development of electric cars.
Typical collocations
The word is often combined with geographical adjectives to describe the location. Common phrases also include 'in der Automobilindustrie arbeiten' (to work in the automotive industry) or 'ein Zulieferer für die Automobilindustrie sein' (to be a supplier for the automotive industry).
EXAMPLE
Die japanische Automobilindustrie ist für ihre Effizienz bekannt.
The Japanese automotive industry is known for its efficiency.
Word family
The component 'Automobil-' is used in many other words in this specialist field. If you recognize this part, you can also more easily understand words like 'Automobilhersteller' (automobile manufacturer), 'Automobilzulieferer' (automotive supplier), or 'Automobilmesse' (automobile trade fair).
EXAMPLE
Auf der internationalen Automobilmesse werden die neuesten Modelle vorgestellt.
The latest models are presented at the international automobile trade fair.
Compare with
synonym
Automobilindustrie vs Autoindustrie
auto industry
'Automobilindustrie' and 'Autoindustrie' mean the same branch of the economy in normal usage: companies that develop, manufacture, and sell cars and other motor vehicles. 'Automobilindustrie' sounds a little more formal and fits well in news, reports, or official texts. 'Autoindustrie' is shorter and often sounds more natural in everyday language. In terms of content, there is hardly any difference here.
Automobilindustrie
In der Automobilindustrie arbeiten viele Firmen an neuen Elektroautos.
In the automotive industry, many companies are working on new electric cars.
Autoindustrie
Die Autoindustrie sucht Fachkräfte für Technik und Verkauf.
The auto industry is looking for skilled workers in technology and sales.