Automotive manufacturers worldwide report increasing confidence in electric vehicle production. ABB Robotics’ latest Automotive Manufacturing Outlook Survey found that more than two-thirds of manufacturers expect EV output to rise in 2026 compared with 2025. The shift signals that EV production is moving from disruption to routine.
Highlights
- 51% of respondents say EVs are now easier to manufacture than 12 months ago; only 8% say they have become harder to build
- 41% report decreased EV manufacturing costs over the past year, while 39% say costs held steady
- More than two-thirds of manufacturers expect EV production volumes to increase in 2026
- Hybrid growth outpaces EVs in near-term forecasts, reflecting a demand-led powertrain strategy
Survey Scope and Methodology
The global survey was conducted in partnership with Automotive Manufacturing Solutions. It gathered responses from 473 automotive industry decision-makers. Respondents represented vehicle manufacturers and suppliers across the value chain worldwide.
Production Getting Easier and Cheaper
The survey’s cost and complexity findings suggest EV assembly is maturing rapidly. Just over half of respondents said EVs and key components are now easier to manufacture than a year ago. Only 8% reported increased difficulty.
Cost trends reinforced the pattern. More than four in ten respondents reported lower EV manufacturing costs over the past 12 months. An additional 39% said costs remained stable. Only 21% reported rising costs.
“Key indicators such as manufacturing time, cost and integration show that EV production is increasingly becoming a known quantity,” said Joerg Reger, Managing Director of ABB Robotics Automotive Business Line.
Hybrid Growth Signals Demand-Led Strategy
While EV production is expected to keep climbing, the survey found manufacturers predict even stronger growth in hybrid powertrain manufacturing. This suggests many producers view hybrid technologies as a bridge. Hybrids allow manufacturers to balance electrification goals with real-world customer demand.
“Manufacturers are no longer asking whether they can build EVs – they are focused on how to build them efficiently, profitably and alongside other powertrains,” Reger added.
Automation Driving the Shift
Investment in robotics and flexible manufacturing is a key factor behind the improving outlook. Automation allows producers to scale EV output while maintaining the flexibility to respond to shifting market conditions. As a result, the industry appears to be converting ambition into operational confidence.
The full survey results are available at: www.abb.com/global/en/areas/robotics/industries/automotive/manufacturing-outlook-survey
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