Overview
- Gartner’s 2026 predictions report says the share of automakers with strong AI investment growth will plunge from over 95% today to 5% by 2029.
- Only companies with robust software foundations, tech-savvy leadership and a long-term AI focus are expected to pull ahead, deepening gaps with tech-forward rivals.
- Volkswagen’s software struggles at Cariad and its move to seek help from Rivian illustrate the organizational hurdles facing legacy brands.
- Gartner predicts at least one fully automated vehicle assembly line by 2030, with nearly half of the world’s top 25 automakers already piloting advanced robotics.
- The report flags a shortage of AI talent pushing up pay for experts, and separately forecasts 116 million EVs on the road in 2026 with China accounting for 61%.