B&W completes study on industry transitions caused by growing segment of electric vehicles

Although predictions on market growth still vary widely, it is clear that the rise of electric vehicles may have a profound impact on the automotive value chain. Whereas some components related to the internal combustion engine will be faced with reduced demand, there will be increasing demand for new components: electric powertrains, batteries, etc. The EV rise affects most companies in the value chain, and provides important challenges and opportunities for economies with a strong automotive sector (or seeking to build one).

B&W undertook a study for the Industry Foresight agency of the Catalan regional government (Generalitat), and mapped the potential for growth and decline for some 42 automotive subassemblies and their related value chains. Next to a map of the effects of the transition on the regional automotive value chain, the study highlights various trends and insights into the possible effects on industry and adjacent value chains (retailing, maintenance, charging infrastructure). The study has been used as input for defining Catalan industrial policy related to the automotive sector and the possibilities to strengthen the sector during the transition to electric vehicles.

At B&W we believe that one way to do this is to exploit the opportunity create new (niche) car OEMs, which can reinforce the automotive sector in regions that lack automotive global headquarters within their boundaries. Various approaches to creating a new carmaker are now subject to an internal study at B&W.

For more information contact Menno van Rijn at contact@bwcv.es