The tooling industry in Europe is strongly tied to the automotive sector, which generates more than 50% of total tooling demand, according to the latest outlook by the global tooling association ISTMA, of which TECOS – Slovenian Tool and Die Development Centre – is also a member. ISTMA recently introduced a new initiative: regular Automotive Tooling Forecast (ATF) reports. Published twice a year, these forecasts are based on data on new vehicle models and facelifts, providing valuable insights into upcoming tooling needs.
Automotive industry in a period of dynamic change
The European automotive sector is undergoing a major transformation driven by electrification, digitalization, software-defined vehicle functions, autonomous driving and growing competition from Chinese manufacturers. Because of these rapidly shifting trends, development programs for new vehicles are often postponed, suspended or even cancelled. Despite China’s dominant position in the tooling market, ISTMA estimates that 30–40% of tooling production will remain in Europe.
How many new vehicle models can we expect next year?
According to the report, manufacturers covered by the forecast plan 64 new vehicle models in 2026, along with 26 facelifts of existing models. In total, 90 new models and updates expected for next year are projected by ISTMA to generate €14.664 billion worth of tooling demand in 2026.
What does the report include?
The ATF provides an overview of major automotive groups and their brands, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, Volkswagen, Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi, Ford, Geely, Tata and Tesla. It includes:
the number of new and updated models by OEM group and brand,
estimated production start timelines, which trigger tooling demand up to two years in advance,
investment estimates for tooling required for new models and facelifts,
a breakdown of tooling value across segments (plastic injection moulding, die casting, metal stamping, refinement and production devices).
Regular monitoring of developments in the automotive sector enables tooling companies to plan capacity more efficiently, prepare timely quotations and respond more effectively to market changes. With the ATF reports, ISTMA aims to provide its members – including TECOS – with a strategic overview of trends in the key automotive market and support the competitiveness of the European tooling industry.
The full forecast is available to all members of the TECOS Toolmaking Association. Details about membership are available HERE.