Engineers occupy a high pedestal in a country that prizes technology and craftsmanship, which explains the ubiquity of the title Dr. Ing. (for doctorate holders) at the top of German automakers. No bean counters need apply. And who but the Germans would have taken the homely, if efficient, diesel engine (invented by a German, of course) to heart for their passenger cars? This kind of dedication to first principles resonates with customers.
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