ABB Robotics Survey Shows Acceleration in Automation Investment for Automotive Manufacturers
- One-third of manufacturers (33%) say improving cost control is their top strategic priority for the next 12 months
- With 31% identifing increased investment in automation and robotics as a key response to rising cost and competitive pressures
- 30% cite labour shortages and rising wage costs among their most significant challenges, with 34% citing energy and material costs as a leading concern
Automotive manufacturers and key supply chain companies are accelerating investment in robotics and automation as they seek to remain competitive, control costs and address ongoing workforce and energy pressures, according to ABB Robotics’ latest Automotive Manufacturing Outlook Survey.
“The intelligent factory is no longer a future ambition – it has become essential for manufacturers looking to stay competitive in a challenging and fast-moving environment,” said Joerg Reger, Managing Director of ABB Robotics Automotive Business Line. “This year’s survey shows that automation, par
ticularly more autonomous and versatile robotics (AVRTM), are increasingly viewed as a practical, near-term solution to cost pressures, labor availability and energy efficiency challenges.”
The global survey, conducted in partnership with Automotive Manufacturing Solutions, highlights how competitive pressures continue to shape manufacturing strategy across the automotive sector. Improving cost control and tighter budget management emerged as the single most important strategic priority, cited by 33% of respondents, reflecting the need to deliver productivity gains while managing rising input costs.
Workforce pressures remain a major factor. Three in ten respondents (30%) ranked labor shortages and rising wage costs among their most significant challenges, while skills availability continues to constrain production planning and operational flexibility in many regions.
At the same time, energy and material costs remain a critical concern, cited by 34% of manufacturers, reinforcing the need for more efficient production processes and smarter use of resources on the factory floor.
Get the Training You Need for a Safer Workplace!
Autonomous mobile robots are one of the fastest-growing segments of the robotics industry. During this live virtual training, you'll be introduced to safety protocols and best practices for working with mobile robots in industrial settings.
Learn more and register now for upcoming training dates.



Leave a Reply