Innovative automotive technology: German manufacturers still ahead according to survey

Image: Audi

New, innovative automotive technologies are increasingly becoming a key factor in purchasing decisions – and German automakers still hold a clear advantage among car enthusiasts in this regard. This is evident in the readers’ vote for the 2026 Tech Award by Auto Motor und Sport.

A total of 12,816 readers participated, who, according to the magazine, are considered well-informed opinion leaders in their personal circles within the industry. “The high number of participants shows how seriously the car enthusiast community takes this issue,” says Markus Eiberger, CEO of Motor Presse-Vermarktung and responsible for the readers’ voting at Auto Motor und Sport.

At the Tech Award, participants are asked to vote in 13 categories covering the best navigation and assistance systems, the most useful online features, and the most comfortable displays, to determine which products impressed them the most.

"The clear winner of 2026 is the Audi brand, which secured four victories," explains Dirk Gulde from Auto Motor und Sport. "According to our readers, the best navigation systems and online services come from Ingolstadt, as do the most advanced electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles."

BMW was equally successful with three first-place finishes, while Mercedes, Porsche, and Volkswagen each won one category. “For the struggling German automotive industry, this outstanding performance is more than just a glimmer of hope,” says Gulde. “Especially since the Chinese manufacturer BYD – despite competing in several categories – could only achieve third place.”

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About the author

Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with experience in the automotive and financial industries. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.

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