The European Commission has opened an investigation for the suspected existence of a cartel among manufacturers of automotive electrical distribution systems that would affect the European Economic Area. This case is part of a wider investigation related to the alleged creation of cartels in the automotive industry.

The investigation initiated by the European Commission affects certain suppliers of automotive electrical distribution systems, also known as wire harnesses. They are suspected to have agreed on prices and created a cartel within the industry. The components under investigation are considered as the central nervous system of a car which links the car's computers to the various relevant functions in the vehicle.

Should the investigation conclude that the manufacturers of these type of components reached such an agreement, this behaviour could constitute a breach of the rules established by the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and the Agreement on the European Economic Area about the prohibition of cartels and restrictive business practices. These rules are intended to ensure the proper functioning of the internal market.

The Commission recently conducted unannounced inspections in other automotive subsidiary industries. These actions are based on the suspicions for the creation of possible cartels in industries such as occupant safety systems, bearing manufacturers or thermal systems suppliers.