Automotive industry leaders are increasingly doubtful about meeting 100 per cent electric vehicle production deadlines, according to a new survey.
A comprehensive study reported that 65 per cent of manufacturing experts are skeptical about reaching complete EV production within the 2030 to 2040 period.
ABB Robotics' third Automotive Manufacturing Outlook Survey reveals growing skepticism about achieving full EV production within proposed timeframes.
The survey found that 31 per cent of respondents now believe 100 per cent electric vehicle production targets are impossible, compared to 27 per cent last year.
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Experts are concerned about whether EV production targets will be met
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This represents a significant increase from just 18 per cent in 2022, showing a clear downward trend in confidence.
Despite this skepticism, 31 per cent of manufacturing leaders predict EV output will increase by over 10 per cent in 2025.
A further 44 per cent believe production will grow by up to 10 per cent this year, while only one in five expect production to remain static or decline.
The survey identifies key barriers to full EV adoption as being "outside the factory" environment.
Consumer demand has emerged as a significant concern for manufacturers, while confidence in charging infrastructure was also highlighted as a major obstacle.
These external factors appear to be driving the declining confidence in meeting ambitious EV production deadlines.
The findings suggest that while production capabilities have improved, market and infrastructure challenges now present the biggest hurdles to complete electrification.
Joerg Reger, managing director of ABB Automotive Business Line, noted significant progress in manufacturing capabilities.
He said: "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.
"There’s strong evidence that EV manufacturing capabilities are now considerably improved, and significant change has taken place in terms of introducing new production technology as well as upskilling workforces."
The survey also reveals strong growth predictions for hybrid vehicles in the automotive sector, with two-thirds saying PHEV production will grow in 2025.
Similarly, Daniel Harrison, chief analyst for Automotive Manufacturing Solutions, said: "Hybrid passenger vehicle production remains buoyant with the global manufacturing community expecting to produce more cars in 2025.
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PA"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 per cent electric future."
Harrison noted that manufacturing multiple powertrains creates "considerable complexity and additional cost" for manufacturers.
