Vehicle production in Spain plummets by 27,2% in January: Crisis or temporary adjustment?

 

According to the Spanish Association of Automobile and Truck Manufacturers (ANFAC), the main causes of this decrease in production are due to "the adjustments to work shifts carried out at the production centers and their adaptation to the introduction of the new electrified models." This process of transition to the manufacture of electric and hybrid vehicles is forcing companies to make investments and changes in their production processes, which may temporarily affect production volumes.

 

Impact on different types of vehicles:

 

The drop in production has affected both passenger cars and commercial and industrial vehicles, although more intensely in the latter. Production of passenger cars fell by 25,3%, reaching 132.162 units, while production of commercial and industrial vehicles experienced a decline of 33,7%, with 35.914 units manufactured.

 

The decline in production and exports raises questions about the future of the sector, which faces the transition to electrification and the need to adapt to an ever-changing global market.

 

Exports on the decline:

 

Exports have also been affected by this situation. In January, 145.170 vehicles were sent abroad, which represents a 28% decrease compared to the same month in 2024. Despite this drop, the export sector remains fundamental for the Spanish automotive industry, as 86% of the vehicles produced in January were destined for international markets.

 

Target markets:

 

Europe continues to be the main destination for Spanish vehicle exports, with 92,1% of total shipments. France remains the leading market, followed by Germany and TürkiyeHowever, there has been a general decline in exports to the main destinations, with significant falls in Italy and Portugal.

 

Increase in production of electrified vehicles:

 

Despite the overall decline in production, the electrified vehicle sector has seen significant growth in January. Production of zero- and low-emission vehicles (electric, plug-in hybrid, conventional hybrid, natural gas and LPG) increased by 52,2% compared to the same period in 2024, reaching 65.179 units. This represents 38,8% of the total production share.

 

José López-Tafall, general director of ANFACHe expressed concern about the decline in production and stressed the need to "boost demand, not only in Spain but also in Europe, to maintain the competitiveness that has always defined our industry." In this regard, he advocated for "aligning all stakeholders, creating a short-term action plan, and a long-term, sustainable strategy to maintain competitiveness in the industry and foster innovation in electric vehicles."

 

Despite the challenges, the rise in production of electrified vehicles offers a ray of hope and points the way to a more sustainable future for the industry.