Globally shifting gears: Manufacturers pivot to hybrids over full EVs
One of the subcontractors reports that the United States, Germany, and France are producing 45% fewer electric vehicles than planned. Instead, manufacturers focus on hybrids and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
“There is still a lot of uncertainty in trading volume and market development,” says Laurent Favre, managing director of parts supplier OPMobility, regarding the production of electric vehicles. “The transition to electricity is being imposed by regulators, rather than coming from consumer demand.”
He stated that key vehicle manufacturers are operating even 45% below initial forecasts. "This means that our work requires continuous adaptation," informs the director.
However, Favre notes that interest in hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles is growing.
The managing director says some of their clients, particularly from the United States, wanted to move directly from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles. Now, they are focusing on plug-in hybrids instead.
Recently, Ford announced an investment in the well-profitable F-Series Super Duty trucks, which are to be produced in Ontario, Canada. Previously, the focus was on the development of electric vehicles. Meanwhile, in Europe, Mercedes has focused on the development of internal combustion engines, and the Italians have reduced the number of shifts in the electric vehicle factory in Mirafiori.
