A new survey of German car industry managers suggests the sector is further into its electric vehicle transition than public debate tends to imply, with a small group of slower-moving firms distorting the wider picture and potentially dragging down the broader shift. The research, jointly conducted by the University of Sussex and the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research, drew on responses from 74 industry managers gathered toward the end of 2025.
The findings indicate that while a majority of automotive companies are actively pursuing electrification strategies, a minority of legacy firms are lagging behind, creating a misleading impression of the industry's overall progress. This uneven adoption could have significant implications for the pace of the EV transition, as slower firms may hinder supply chain development, infrastructure investment, and consumer confidence.
Firms like Ferrari N.V. (NYSE: RACE) that have laid out ambitious EV plans will be looking at the survey results with interest, as they underscore the challenges faced by even the most committed automakers. The persistence of slow-moving players may create bottlenecks in battery supply, charging infrastructure, and talent acquisition, affecting the entire ecosystem.
The survey highlights that the debate around EV adoption often focuses on headline-grabbing announcements from industry leaders, but the reality is more nuanced. A small group of conservative firms can skew perceptions, making the transition appear slower than it actually is for the majority. This misperception could deter investment and policy support, potentially slowing the overall shift to electric mobility.
According to the researchers, the laggards are typically larger, established manufacturers with entrenched internal combustion engine production lines and complex supply chains. Their slower adaptation risks creating a two-speed industry, where advanced EV makers race ahead while others hold back progress. This dynamic could lead to regulatory challenges and market fragmentation, as consumers and policymakers react to inconsistent signals.
The study's implications extend beyond Germany, as the country's automotive sector is a global bellwether. The findings suggest that targeted policy interventions may be needed to accelerate the transition among slower firms, such as stricter emissions targets, increased R&D subsidies, or infrastructure mandates. Without such measures, the EV transition could face unnecessary delays.
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