Key Insights
The European airbag systems market is experiencing robust growth, driven by stringent vehicle safety regulations, increasing consumer awareness of safety features, and the rising adoption of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 7% from 2019 to 2024 indicates a significant upward trajectory. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the passenger car segment dominates the market, but commercial vehicles are experiencing comparatively faster growth due to regulations mandating advanced safety features in commercial fleets. Secondly, the increasing integration of sophisticated airbag modules and crash sensors within vehicles is driving demand. The preference for advanced coating technologies, like silicone-coated airbags, is also contributing to market expansion. Major players like Autoliv, Delphi, and Bosch are investing heavily in R&D to develop innovative airbag technologies, further stimulating market growth. The market is segmented by component type (airbag modules, crash sensors, monitoring units, others), vehicle type (passenger cars, commercial vehicles), and coating type (neoprene, silicone, non-coated, others), providing various avenues for growth and innovation.
Considering the provided data and industry trends, the European market is estimated to be worth approximately €5 billion (assuming a reasonable market size based on global trends and regional relevance) in 2025. This is further projected to expand significantly over the forecast period (2025-2033). While challenges such as economic fluctuations and supply chain disruptions exist, the ongoing trend towards enhanced vehicle safety and the increasing adoption of ADAS across various vehicle types are expected to offset these challenges, ensuring sustained market growth. Germany, France, and the UK represent significant regional markets within Europe, with growth expected across all major European nations. The competitive landscape is characterized by established players, fostering innovation and competition within the market.

Europe Airbag Systems Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Europe Airbag Systems Market, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders across the automotive industry. From market dynamics and leading players to emerging opportunities and future projections, this report is your essential guide to navigating this crucial sector. The study covers the period 2019-2033, with a focus on 2025 as the base and estimated year. The market is segmented by component type (Airbag Module, Crash Sensors, Monitoring Unit, Others), vehicle type (Passenger Cars, Commercial Vehicles), and coating type (Neoprene Coated, Non-Coated, Silicone Coated, Others). Key players analyzed include Autolive Inc, Delphi Automotive Plc, Hyundai Mobis Co Ltd, Denso Corporation, TRW Automotive, Takata Corporation, Continental AG, Robert Bosch GmbH, Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd, and Key Safety System. The report projects a market value reaching xx Million by 2033.
Europe Airbag Systems Market Market Dynamics & Concentration
The Europe Airbag Systems Market is characterized by a moderately concentrated landscape, with several major players holding significant market share. Autolive Inc, Robert Bosch GmbH, and Continental AG collectively account for an estimated xx% of the market in 2025. Market concentration is influenced by factors such as economies of scale, technological advancements, and stringent regulatory requirements.
- Innovation Drivers: Continuous advancements in sensor technology, airbag designs, and safety systems are driving market growth. The development of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technologies further fuels demand for sophisticated airbag systems.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Stringent safety regulations across European countries mandate the use of airbags in vehicles, driving market expansion. Compliance with these regulations necessitates significant investment in research and development.
- Product Substitutes: While limited, alternative safety mechanisms exist, but airbags remain the dominant solution due to their proven effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.
- End-User Trends: The increasing preference for advanced safety features among consumers and rising vehicle sales in Europe directly influence market growth.
- M&A Activities: The number of mergers and acquisitions in the sector has been moderate in recent years, with approximately xx deals recorded between 2019 and 2024. These activities often aim to enhance technological capabilities and expand market reach.
Europe Airbag Systems Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The Europe Airbag Systems Market is witnessing robust growth, with a projected CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by multiple factors including rising vehicle production, increasing safety regulations, and the growing adoption of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Market penetration is expected to reach xx% by 2033.
Technological disruptions, particularly the integration of AI and machine learning in airbag systems, are transforming the industry. Consumer preferences are shifting towards vehicles with enhanced safety features, making airbag systems a crucial component. Competitive dynamics are characterized by intense rivalry among major players, who are investing heavily in R&D to differentiate their products and improve market positioning. The rising demand for lightweight and more compact airbag systems presents a new challenge and opportunity for growth.

Leading Markets & Segments in Europe Airbag Systems Market
The Passenger Car segment dominates the Europe Airbag Systems Market, accounting for approximately xx% of the total market revenue in 2025. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are the leading national markets, driven by factors like high vehicle ownership, strong economies, and robust automotive industries.
Key Drivers:
- Germany: Strong automotive manufacturing base, high disposable incomes, and stringent safety regulations.
- France: Significant vehicle production and a growing demand for advanced safety features.
- United Kingdom: Large consumer base with a high preference for safety-equipped vehicles.
Segment Dominance Analysis:
The Airbag Module segment holds the largest market share due to its critical role in providing primary impact protection. However, the Crash Sensors segment is exhibiting faster growth, driven by increasing adoption of ADAS technologies and the need for more sophisticated safety systems. The Neoprene Coated segment remains the dominant coating type, driven by its cost-effectiveness and durability.
Europe Airbag Systems Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations focus on lighter, more compact airbag designs, improved sensor technologies for enhanced responsiveness, and integration with ADAS systems. These advancements aim to improve passenger safety and meet the growing demand for sophisticated, cost-effective solutions. Companies are emphasizing the development of smart airbags that adjust deployment based on impact severity and occupant position, providing a key competitive advantage.
Key Drivers of Europe Airbag Systems Market Growth
Several factors contribute to the market’s growth. These include:
- Stringent safety regulations: European Union mandates for airbags in vehicles drive market expansion.
- Rising vehicle production: The continuous growth of the automotive industry in Europe fuels demand for airbag systems.
- Technological advancements: Innovations in sensor technology and airbag design enhance product performance and efficiency.
- Increased consumer awareness: Rising consumer awareness regarding vehicle safety improves demand for advanced airbag systems.
Challenges in the Europe Airbag Systems Market Market
The market faces several challenges:
- Supply chain disruptions: Global supply chain disruptions can impact the availability of raw materials and components.
- High production costs: The complex manufacturing process of airbag systems can lead to high production costs, particularly for advanced models.
- Intense competition: The presence of numerous players in the market leads to intense competition, impacting profit margins.
- Fluctuations in raw material prices: Price volatility for raw materials can impact production costs.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Airbag Systems Market
The market offers significant long-term opportunities. These include:
- Expansion into emerging markets: Market expansion into Eastern European countries with growing automotive industries presents opportunities.
- Strategic partnerships: Collaboration between airbag system manufacturers and automotive companies enhances market reach and product development.
- Technological advancements: The development of smart and adaptive airbag systems opens new avenues for growth.
Leading Players in the Europe Airbag Systems Market Sector
- Autoliv Inc
- Delphi Automotive Plc
- Hyundai Mobis Co Ltd
- Denso Corporation
- TRW Automotive
- Takata Corporation
- Continental AG
- Robert Bosch GmbH
- Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd
- Key Safety System
Key Milestones in Europe Airbag Systems Market Industry
- 2020: Introduction of advanced airbag systems with improved occupant detection capabilities.
- 2022: Several mergers and acquisitions among key players to expand product portfolios and market reach.
- 2023: Launch of lightweight and compact airbag systems to enhance fuel efficiency.
- 2024: Implementation of stricter safety regulations impacting product design and development strategies.
Strategic Outlook for Europe Airbag Systems Market Market
The Europe Airbag Systems Market is poised for sustained growth driven by factors like rising vehicle production, stringent safety regulations, and ongoing technological advancements. Strategic opportunities for manufacturers lie in focusing on innovation, improving supply chain resilience, and expanding into emerging markets. Companies that prioritize R&D, build strategic partnerships, and anticipate regulatory changes will be best positioned to thrive in this dynamic sector.
Europe Airbag Systems Market Segmentation
-
1. Component Type
- 1.1. Airbag Module
- 1.2. Crash Sensors
- 1.3. Monitoring Unit
- 1.4. Others
-
2. Vehicle Type
- 2.1. Passenger Cars
- 2.2. Commercial Vehicle
-
3. Coating Type
- 3.1. Neoprene Coated
- 3.2. Non-Coated
- 3.3. Silicone Coated
- 3.4. Others
Europe Airbag Systems Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Germany
- 2. United Kingdom
- 3. Italy
- 4. Spain
- 5. Rest of Europe

Europe Airbag Systems Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 7.00% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. ADOPTION OF STEER-BY-WIRE SYSTEM AIDING MARKET GROWTH; Others
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. RAW MATERIAL PRICE INCREASES ARE EXPECTED TO STIFLE MARKET GROWTH; Others
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Passenger Car Segment Captures Market
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 5.1.1. Airbag Module
- 5.1.2. Crash Sensors
- 5.1.3. Monitoring Unit
- 5.1.4. Others
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Vehicle Type
- 5.2.1. Passenger Cars
- 5.2.2. Commercial Vehicle
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Coating Type
- 5.3.1. Neoprene Coated
- 5.3.2. Non-Coated
- 5.3.3. Silicone Coated
- 5.3.4. Others
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. Germany
- 5.4.2. United Kingdom
- 5.4.3. Italy
- 5.4.4. Spain
- 5.4.5. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 6. Germany Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 6.1.1. Airbag Module
- 6.1.2. Crash Sensors
- 6.1.3. Monitoring Unit
- 6.1.4. Others
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Vehicle Type
- 6.2.1. Passenger Cars
- 6.2.2. Commercial Vehicle
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Coating Type
- 6.3.1. Neoprene Coated
- 6.3.2. Non-Coated
- 6.3.3. Silicone Coated
- 6.3.4. Others
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 7. United Kingdom Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 7.1.1. Airbag Module
- 7.1.2. Crash Sensors
- 7.1.3. Monitoring Unit
- 7.1.4. Others
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Vehicle Type
- 7.2.1. Passenger Cars
- 7.2.2. Commercial Vehicle
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Coating Type
- 7.3.1. Neoprene Coated
- 7.3.2. Non-Coated
- 7.3.3. Silicone Coated
- 7.3.4. Others
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 8. Italy Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 8.1.1. Airbag Module
- 8.1.2. Crash Sensors
- 8.1.3. Monitoring Unit
- 8.1.4. Others
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Vehicle Type
- 8.2.1. Passenger Cars
- 8.2.2. Commercial Vehicle
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Coating Type
- 8.3.1. Neoprene Coated
- 8.3.2. Non-Coated
- 8.3.3. Silicone Coated
- 8.3.4. Others
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 9. Spain Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 9.1.1. Airbag Module
- 9.1.2. Crash Sensors
- 9.1.3. Monitoring Unit
- 9.1.4. Others
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Vehicle Type
- 9.2.1. Passenger Cars
- 9.2.2. Commercial Vehicle
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Coating Type
- 9.3.1. Neoprene Coated
- 9.3.2. Non-Coated
- 9.3.3. Silicone Coated
- 9.3.4. Others
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 10. Rest of Europe Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 10.1.1. Airbag Module
- 10.1.2. Crash Sensors
- 10.1.3. Monitoring Unit
- 10.1.4. Others
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Vehicle Type
- 10.2.1. Passenger Cars
- 10.2.2. Commercial Vehicle
- 10.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Coating Type
- 10.3.1. Neoprene Coated
- 10.3.2. Non-Coated
- 10.3.3. Silicone Coated
- 10.3.4. Others
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component Type
- 11. Germany Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. France Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Italy Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. United Kingdom Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Netherlands Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Sweden Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Rest of Europe Europe Airbag Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. Competitive Analysis
- 18.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 18.2. Company Profiles
- 18.2.1 Autolive Inc
- 18.2.1.1. Overview
- 18.2.1.2. Products
- 18.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.2 Delphi Automotive Plc
- 18.2.2.1. Overview
- 18.2.2.2. Products
- 18.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.3 Hyundai Mobis Co Ltd
- 18.2.3.1. Overview
- 18.2.3.2. Products
- 18.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.4 Denso Corporation
- 18.2.4.1. Overview
- 18.2.4.2. Products
- 18.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.5 TRW Automotive
- 18.2.5.1. Overview
- 18.2.5.2. Products
- 18.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.6 Takata Corporation
- 18.2.6.1. Overview
- 18.2.6.2. Products
- 18.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.7 Continental AG
- 18.2.7.1. Overview
- 18.2.7.2. Products
- 18.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.8 Robert Bosch GmbH
- 18.2.8.1. Overview
- 18.2.8.2. Products
- 18.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.9 Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd
- 18.2.9.1. Overview
- 18.2.9.2. Products
- 18.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.10 Key Safety System
- 18.2.10.1. Overview
- 18.2.10.2. Products
- 18.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.1 Autolive Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Airbag Systems Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Coating Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Germany Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: France Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Italy Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: United Kingdom Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Netherlands Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Sweden Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Rest of Europe Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Coating Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Coating Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Coating Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Coating Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Vehicle Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Coating Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Airbag Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Airbag Systems Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 7.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Airbag Systems Market?
Key companies in the market include Autolive Inc, Delphi Automotive Plc, Hyundai Mobis Co Ltd, Denso Corporation, TRW Automotive, Takata Corporation, Continental AG, Robert Bosch GmbH, Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd, Key Safety System.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Airbag Systems Market?
The market segments include Component Type, Vehicle Type, Coating Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
ADOPTION OF STEER-BY-WIRE SYSTEM AIDING MARKET GROWTH; Others.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Passenger Car Segment Captures Market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
RAW MATERIAL PRICE INCREASES ARE EXPECTED TO STIFLE MARKET GROWTH; Others.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 4950, and USD 6800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Airbag Systems Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Airbag Systems Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Airbag Systems Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Airbag Systems Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence