A survey done last month states that almost all manufacturers (98%) are concerned that all the efforts and investments they are making in order to produce cars with small environmental footprintwill be jeopardized by the inadequate charging and refueling infrastructure that currently exists in the European Union.

To solve the problem and promote electrification, they should be built at least 3.4 million new charging points by 2030, while current network growth should become four times faster than it is today.

According to the research conducted by McKinseymost manufacturers (over 90%) feel that they are the ones making the investment unilaterally, without corresponding help from the rulers. This will seriously hinder the increase in electrification and the transition to sustainable mobility with zero carbon emissionssupport.

On the other hand, the company CLEPA, which represents 3,000 businesses supplying the automotive industry throughout Europe, through its general secretary, Benjamin Krieger states: “Securing a significant number of public charging points for electrics and refueling stations for hydrogen-powered vehicles is a necessary condition to turn current industry efforts into a successful sustainable mobility transition».

Another element of the research shows that the 64% of suppliers expects revenue growth for 2023, with earnings expectations not as optimistic. Cost pressures, as well as problems with raw materials, continue to reduce the profits of most companies. A significant number of suppliers face intense pressure on the profit margin, with 67% of respondents stating that their level of profitability is below 5%. In fact, about one in four suppliers operate at a loss, which means that this business plan for companies is not sustainable. Yes, the 37% of suppliers reduces investments to be able to cope with difficult financial situations.