OEM Integration and Generative AI will Ensure Greater Connectivity and Digitalization Despite Labor Shortage and Price Pressure
In 2023, the global light vehicle industry experienced a 6.5% growth, driven by economic recovery and resolved semiconductor chip supply chain challenges. China, the United States, India, Japan, and Germany experienced positive growth. China took the lead with 11% YoY growth in vehicles sold.
Of the 14.1 million EVs sold in 2023, 70% were BEVs. and 30% were PHEVs. As a result, EV penetration increased from 13% in 2022 to 15.8% in 2023. BYD and Tesla remained the top participants with unit sales of 2.9 million and 1.8 million, respectively.
The growth trajectory of the automotive industry will focus on EVs, connectivity, and digitization. Vertical integration of EV-related capabilities will help OEMs mitigate against supply chain disruptions, increase efficiency, and establish competitive advantages.
The shift toward EVs, connected features, digitization, and autonomy will increase the demand for new skills in automotive manufacturing, with particular focus on software and IT professionals. Increasing connectivity and real-time data regarding vehicle operation and the health of various components are enabling the rise of prognostic and remote diagnostic solutions. EVs will require best-in-class battery management solutions that can aid in optimal battery design, health and performance monitoring, and failure prediction while deployed, and residual value prediction at the product’s end of life. Significant advancements in connectivity, electrification, and sustainability will support sector growth in 2024, despite challenges related to higher incentives and increased pricing pressure.
Generative AI is transforming the automotive sector. It is impacting vehicle design, navigation, predictive maintenance, voice assistants, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality control, and enhancing the safety, efficiency, and personalization of in-car interactions. OEMs will be operating in a more challenging environment, with a focus on higher incentives and increased pricing pressure at a time when labor costs are already squeezing profit margins. Advancements in connectivity, electrification, and sustainability will bring about transformative changes in the industry.
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Companies Mentioned (Partial List)
A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:
- BYD
- Tesla
