THE WORLD'S GREATEST AUTO DISRUPTORS

GOING FULL SPEED AHEAD ON INNOVATION WHILE OVERCOMING THE LINGERING EFFECTS OF THE PANDEMIC

- EILEEN FALKENBERG-HULL

THOUGH THE PANIC OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IS FIRMLY in the rearview mirror for most of the world, the effects of the virus on the automotive industry remain. Overcoming those challenges while continuing to evolve both practices and products are the themes of 2023.

This year's Auto Disruptors are moving full speed ahead on innovation, finding solutions to longstanding problems, using cutting-edge technology and pushing the limits of propulsion. They're also focusing on reducing, reusing and recycling to make their businesses more sustainable. And they are seeing the fruits of over a decade of planning in technology, sustainability and product innovation.

"The auto industry has shown its resiliency and willingness to evolve as it navigates out of the pandemic and continues toward electrification rollout amidst a looming recession," Paul Waatti, manager of industry analysis at AutoPacific, tells Newsweek. He adds, "Automakers are navigating lingering unforeseen supply issues while simultaneously preparing for new, more complex electric vehicle production. Add to that the new Inflation Reduction Act parameters that have set off a high-stakes chess match to secure raw materials, localize assembly of vehicles and batteries and align pricing accordingly."

EVs Go Mainstream

ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES (EVS), FROM HYBRIDS TO PLUGins to battery-electric models, aren't just buzzwords anymore. In 2023, these vehicles are going mainstream, gathering more market share than ever, with new models designed to appeal to larger audiences.