Almost 13 million electric vehicles to be produced annually worldwide by 2025. 

A new report, published by KPMG, warns that “Canada’s automotive industry needs to brace itself for massive transformation over the next decade for it to remain a key driver of the country’s economy.”

“The change is going to be dramatic, even in the next five years,” says Peter Hatges, Partner and National Automotive Sector Leader for KPMG in Canada. “Canada can really play a leading role in this transformation.”

The report says that manufacturers are racing to bring to market electric vehicles that meet legislated emissions mandates and customers’ performance expectations.

“Anyone who relies on internal combustion engine vehicles for their livelihood is advised to think hard about the looming future, lest they be stuck in an industry of the past,” KPMG said in a release. “And, if current predictions are realized, annual global production of electrified vehicles (EVs and hybrids) by the top 12 OEMs will reach as many as 13 million by 2025.”

“How we build cars, how they’re supplied, what components go into them, how we maintain them – these will all be completely overhauled,” says Mr. Hatges. “And, with all the automated capabilities that these cars will have, you’ll have a second impact where cars and roads will be a lot safer. The change won’t happen overnight, and OEMs will continue to invest in ICE-vehicle technology, but the industry, as we know it, will be turned upside down. It’s like going from horses-and-buggies to cars. Everything is going to be different.”

For more information: Report.