Ismaning, December 04, 2025 – The automotive industry is facing significant pressure to transform. Utilizing AI technologies for process automation can unlock new opportunities for efficiency, yet the necessary structural, technological, and cultural conditions are frequently absent. This is evidenced by a joint study conducted by msg mobility advisors and Camunda, which analyzes the current situation among OEMs, suppliers, and service providers.
High expectations, low implementation rate
Numerous organizations recognize the potential that modern process automation presents – however, in reality, there frequently exists a deficiency in strategic integration. This results in a low implementation rate and inadequate goal attainment. The study shows: 45% have automated specific process steps, whereas approximately 30% depend on rule-based approaches like RPA. Genuinely AI-driven process landscapes are a reality for just 13%. Only 19% successfully meet their automation goals, while two-thirds do not live up to expectations.
“There are excellent solutions and strong application examples,” states Marco Luerssen, partner at msg mobility advisors. "But legacy structures, insufficient strategic alignment, and a lack of experience hinder adaption."
Despite this, numerous organizations are preparing to allocate larger budgets. However, if there isn't a steady focus on addressing structural, technological, and cultural issues, these investments are likely to underperform against expectations. The message: The opportunity is vast—but it can only be unlocked through a well-defined strategy and a comprehensive approach.
Obstacles and success factors
The primary obstacles include structural and staffing constraints, along with integration into existing workflows. With the introduction of AI, additional challenges arise, including data basis issues, compliance with AI regulations, and governance concerns.
58 % Complex or outdated IT system landscapes; 53 % Insufficient resources (such as staff, budget); 46 % Complicated integration into existing processes; 38 % Cost savings programs or investment stops; 37 % Absence of standardization and process documentation
"The longer organizations delay, the higher the competitive threats," cautions Tom Van den Houte from Camunda.
The leading group of respondents illustrates the path to success: Embed automation strategically, maintain project visibility on the management agenda, create interdisciplinary structures, and provide training for employees. Key recommendations:
- Integrate automation strategically
- Evaluate maturity level realistically
- Prioritize and scale investments
- Enabling specialist departments
- Align technology architecture for future needs
- Manage risks actively – particularly those related to AI
"Achieving success demands not just technology, but also a strategic mindset accompanied by transparent governance and investment strategy," concludes Luerssen.
About the study
In this study, an online questionnaire was distributed to 120 decision-makers involved in process automation within organizations that have a minimum of 250 employees in the automotive and mobility sectors (including OEMs, suppliers, and service providers). Additionally, in-depth expert interviews were carried out to uncover and contextualize best practices, challenges, and success factors.
About Camunda
Camunda stands at the forefront of agent-based automation for organizations, orchestrating complex business processes that encompass high-value knowledge work among agents, individuals, and systems. By developing production-ready, enterprise-grade agents with built-in governance, Camunda provides distinctive, trusted AI agents tailored for business-critical processes. Over 700 leading innovators like Atlassian, ING, and Vodafone, rely on Camunda to slash time-to-value from months to days, boost operational efficiency, and elevate customer experiences. Are you ready to transform into an AI-first organization? Visit us at camunda.com.