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The ABB Robotics’ third Automotive Manufacturing Outlook Survey reveals a positive outlook among automotive manufacturing leaders regarding the growth of electric vehicle (EV) production in 2025. Despite this optimism, there is growing skepticism about meeting the deadlines for full EV production, set between 2030 and 2040. Additionally, the survey highlights strong growth predictions for hybrid vehicle production, indicating a balanced shift in the automotive industry’s focus as it navigates electrification challenges.
Key Highlights:
- 75% of respondents predict EV production growth in 2025.
- 31% believe meeting the 2030-2040 full EV production deadlines is impossible.
- 67% expect plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) production to grow in 2025.
- 62% anticipate growth in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) production.
The survey, conducted with Automotive Manufacturing Solutions, offers valuable insights into the perspectives of automotive manufacturing professionals. Joerg Reger, Managing Director of ABB Automotive Business Line, states, “This year’s survey found that overall, automotive manufacturing professionals are optimistic about EV production growth in 2025, but unsure about reaching 100 percent electric vehicle production timetables due to factors now often beyond the factory environment.” The data shows that 31% of respondents foresee EV output rising by over 10% in 2025, while 44% predict an increase of up to 10%. However, 21% expect production to either remain static or decline.
Confidence in achieving full EV production by 2030-2040 has waned, with 31% of respondents now viewing it as an impossible goal, up from 27% the previous year. The survey identifies external barriers—such as consumer demand and charging infrastructure—as primary concerns slowing progress. Meanwhile, hybrid vehicles are gaining traction, with 67% anticipating PHEV production growth and 62% forecasting an HEV increase, reflecting a pragmatic approach to electrification.
Daniel Harrison, Chief Analyst for Automotive Manufacturing Solutions, observes, “Hybrid passenger vehicle production remains buoyant with the global manufacturing community expecting to produce more cars in 2025. These results support the survey’s main findings that the overall pace of EV adoption is currently not fast enough to reach some of the upcoming legislative deadlines for a 100% electric future.” The complexity and cost of managing multiple powertrains also pose ongoing challenges for manufacturers.
In summary, the survey paints a picture of an industry optimistic about EV growth in the near term but cautious about long-term deadlines. The strong outlook for hybrid production suggests that manufacturers are hedging their bets, balancing EV ambitions with practical alternatives as external factors continue to shape the transition to electrification.
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