German automobile giants are ahead of other automobile majors in filing for self-driving technology patents, according to a survey recently conducted by the Cologne Institute for Economic Research. German companies have been pioneer in technology and automobile segment but they have lagged behind other companies in self-driving segment. German politicians have also urged automobile companies to spend more money and effort on self-driving and electric vehicles.

The research conducted by team from the Cologne Institute for Economic Research found that between 2010 and 2017, 5,839 patents were filed for autonomous driving segment. 52 percent of the patents were filed by German automobile companies during the period under review. Nearly 35 percent of patents were filed by auto-part suppliers while more than 50 percent were filed by automobile companies.

Out of top 10 companies filing for patents, six were from Germany, the research project revealed. The team further informed that Bosch applied for 958 patents between year 2010 and 2017. Audi filed for 516 patents followed by Continental at 439 patents. Ford filed 402 patents while General Motors filed for 380 patents during the period under review. Other major companies applying for patents were BMW, Toyota Volkswagen, Daimler and Google.

Dr. Hubertus Bardt, head of research at Cologne Institute for Economic Research said, “I think the chances for German manufacturers to be successful with these technologies are pretty good. I am optimistic that the [German] companies can develop autonomous driving technology as an advantage in international competition.”

Automobile companies are working hard in electric vehicles segment as well. As per data, nearly 100 new models would be launched by companies in coming 5 years. As many countries are promoting usage of electric vehicles, the segment will witness increased demand in coming years.