Targets of value-based management

Based on long-term interest rates derived from the capital market and the target capital structure (fair value of equity to debt = 2:1), the minimum required rate of return on invested capital defined for the Automotive Division remains unchanged at 9%. We again clearly exceeded the minimum required rate of return in the reporting period, at 14.5% (see also chapter key financial figures and reporting period). An increase in invested capital as a result of the largest volume of investments in the Group’s history will have a dampening effect on future returns. Nevertheless, we expect that our return will continue to be in excess of the minimum required rate of return. Under our Strategy 2018, our medium-term goal is a sustained return on investment of more than 16% in the Automotive Division, which is significantly above the minimum required rate of return.