I think that contracting is also similar in automotive, as the OEMs mostly work on the requirements and integration parts and most of the component development

I think that contracting is also similar in automotive, as the OEMs mostly work on the requirements and integration parts and most of the component development is done by external contractors. However contractors there will rarely mean individuals. It's mostly medium to very large companies (Tier-1 suppliers) themselves. As these are usually under cost pressure it's often not that well paid.