Legacy Automakers May Be Slowing the EV Transition, German Survey Suggests

A new survey of German car industry managers indicates that the sector is further along in its electric vehicle transition than public debate often suggests, but a small group of slower-moving firms is distorting the wider picture and potentially dragging down the broader shift. The research, conducted jointly 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 highlight a divide between companies that have aggressively pursued electrification and those that have lagged behind. Firms like Ferrari N.V. (NYSE: RACE), which have laid out ambitious EV plans, are positioned to benefit from the transition, but the slower pace of some legacy manufacturers could create bottlenecks in the supply chain and infrastructure development, impeding overall industry progress.

The study suggests that the public perception of the EV transition may be overly pessimistic due to the vocal presence of a few resistant firms. These companies, often with deep roots in internal combustion engine technology, face significant challenges in retooling factories, retraining workers, and rethinking their business models. Their reluctance to fully commit to EVs not only affects their own competitiveness but also slows the adoption of necessary charging infrastructure and the scaling of battery production.

Implications of this disparity are significant. For investors, it underscores the importance of differentiating between EV leaders and laggards. Companies that are slow to adapt may face declining market share and regulatory penalties, while those like Ferrari that embrace electrification could capture growing consumer demand. Policymakers may need to consider targeted incentives or mandates to accelerate the transition among slower-moving firms, especially in key automotive markets like Germany.

The research also points to potential collaboration opportunities. Faster-moving firms could partner with legacy manufacturers to share technology and best practices, helping to raise the industry baseline. However, without concerted effort, the drag from lagging firms could delay the environmental benefits of electrification and undermine climate goals.

As the automotive industry navigates this complex transition, the survey serves as a reminder that progress is uneven. While the overall trajectory toward EVs is clear, the pace will be influenced by how quickly the slowest players can catch up. For more insights on the EV sector and related green energy developments, platforms like GreenCarStocks offer specialized coverage.