Equipment manufacturers, the vital suppliers of components to carmakers, have been especially hard hit, with their share prices experiencing a dramatic plunge. This begs the question: is this a buying opportunity for these French stocks, or are there deeper issues at play? Let’s delve into the potential trends and risks shaping this sector.
Michelin, however, stands out as a beacon of resilience in this storm. Its share price has defied the downward trend and outperformed, surging by more than 14% YTD and a remarkable 33% over the past year.
Car manufacturers, which are the main source of the demand for parts and components, have struggled due to lower profit margins and weaker sales, additionally they’re dealing with a number of major challenges around the world.
The German auto giant Volkswagen reported a 20% decline in first-quarter operating profit compared to the same period in 2023. The company attributed the drop to a 2% decrease in sales volume, higher fixed costs, and an unfavourable mix of countries, brands, and vehicle models sold.
Let’s now take a closer look at potential challenges French auto part makers need to face to rebound.
Demand for new cars in France has taken a hit in 2024, with a noticeable decline in overall purchases and a more significant slowdown in electric vehicle (EV) sales. This trend is likely to continue, partly due to the recent reduction in the French government’s “ecological bonus” – a financial incentive for buyers of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Previously, the ecological bonus offered a significant price advantage for EVs, particularly for cost-conscious consumers. However, 2024 saw a reduction in the bonus for “more affluent households,” dropping from €5,000 to €4,000. While low-income households continue to benefit from a more substantial bonus of €7,000, the overall decrease in incentives has eroded some of the appeal of EVs for price-sensitive buyers. This could potentially discourage some from making the switch to electric mobility in the near term.
The automotive industry continues to grapple with a persistent global shortage of semiconductors, the tiny “brains” that drive modern vehicles, and other key components like certain metals and plastics, that started with Covid. This isn’t just a headache for carmakers; it’s a full-blown crisis for French auto parts suppliers who are caught in a vice.
The lack of readily available chips and other components has thrown a wrench into the well-oiled machinery of automotive supply chains. Parts manufacturers are unable to produce components at the expected pace, leading to delays and bottlenecks throughout the entire system.
Car manufacturers, unable to secure the essential chips needed for vehicle assembly, could be forced to halt or significantly slow down production lines, which directly impacts French suppliers who see their orders for components put on hold or drastically reduced.
The domino effect of production delays extends to profitability. Carmakers facing production shortfalls see their margins shrink. This pressure often translates down the supply chain, forcing French parts suppliers to potentially accept lower prices or tighter payment terms to maintain business with carmakers.
Inflation isn’t just a consumer concern, it’s a major challenge for French automotive suppliers. The prices of key commodities like steel, copper, and aluminium have been rising recently and are still quite volatile, putting a significant squeeze on profit margins for parts manufacturers.
The European Union’s ban on new combustion engine car sales by 2035 casts a long shadow over the French automotive sector, particularly for suppliers heavily reliant on traditional engine components. This transition to electric vehicles (EVs) presents a significant challenge on two fronts: stranded assets and declining demand and hurdles in the electrification race.
Companies specialising in combustion engine parts face the risk of their current knowledge and production capabilities becoming obsolete. Stockpiles of parts for gasoline and diesel engines could become stranded assets with declining demand.
As carmakers prioritise EV production, they may source components from different suppliers with expertise in EV technologies. This could lead to a decline in demand for traditional engine parts, potentially forcing French suppliers to downsize or exit the market entirely.
The shift to EVs necessitates significant investments in research and development (R&D) for new technologies like electric motors, battery management systems, and power electronics. French suppliers accustomed to traditional engine parts might lack the resources or expertise to compete in this new technological landscape.
The EV market is already attracting established players from the tech and battery sectors, along with new entrants. This intensifies competition for French suppliers who may struggle to keep pace with the rapid technological advancements needed for EVs.
The French automotive equipment sector is also facing a new and aggressive competitor on all fronts: China. Chinese auto parts manufacturers are rapidly emerging as major players in the global market, and their competitive edge poses a significant threat to French companies.
Chinese manufacturers often benefit from lower production costs due to factors like economies of scale and potentially lower labour costs. This allows them to offer competitive pricing, making it harder for French companies to compete on price alone.
Additionally, the perception of Chinese auto parts as simply “cheap alternatives” is fading. Chinese companies are increasingly investing in research and development, producing innovative and technologically advanced components. This puts them in direct competition with French manufacturers, who may need to accelerate their own innovation efforts.
The Chinese government has prioritised the development of its domestic auto industry, including parts manufacturers.This can translate to financial subsidies and other forms of state support, giving Chinese companies an additional edge in the global market.
The French automotive supplier sector finds itself at a crossroads. While major challenges loom, promising opportunities also beckon. To thrive in this complex environment, French suppliers must adapt quickly and embrace strategic themes.
The shift towards EVs is an undeniable force. French suppliers must invest in R&D to develop expertise in EV technologies like electric motors, battery management systems, and power electronics. This will require potentially partnering with established EV players or technology companies to bridge the knowledge gap.
Diversification is also key. Expanding product portfolios beyond traditional combustion engine parts to include components relevant to EVs and sustainable solutions is crucial. This could encompass charging infrastructure, battery management systems, or lightweight materials for improved fuel efficiency.
While established markets grapple with change, emerging markets present significant growth potential. Strengthening presence in these regions can broaden revenue streams and reduce dependence on traditional markets.
French suppliers must leverage their strengths in quality and precision engineering. Specialisation in high-performance parts or luxury car components, coupled with investments in automation and efficiency, can help them maintain a competitive edge.
The rise of Chinese auto parts manufacturers necessitates a strategic response. Collaboration with international players, including potential partnerships with Chinese companies themselves, can offer access to new markets, technologies, and resources. Additionally, French suppliers must continuously invest in R&D and strengthen their brand image by emphasising quality, heritage, and sustainability to differentiate themselves.
So, the decision to invest in French automotive suppliers depends on your risk tolerance and outlook for the sector. While the challenges are significant, the potential for adaptation and innovation presents long-term opportunities. What do you think?
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This article was originally posted on FX Empire
