The automotive sector is witnessing a significant transformation with the integration of robotics technologies. Innovative patents from industry giants like Toyota, Hyundai, Ford, and Deere are revolutionizing robotics applications in the automotive sector. These patents encompass cutting-edge features like automatic driving functions and integrated navigation, enhancing efficiency and safety. With a focus on innovation, these companies are poised to lead the way in robotics technology, shaping the future of the automotive industry and beyond. GlobalData’s robotics market report provides comprehensive analysis of the market. Buy the report here.

Smarter leaders trust GlobalData

This article presents a quarterly round-up of the latest trends in the automotive industry regarding robotics. It provides an overview of recent developments in robotics-related deals, talent acquisition, and patent filings within the automotive industry.

Diverse applications of robotics in automotive industry

Automotive companies are leveraging new robotics technologies to innovate and improve their businesses. Alphabet Inc's patent focuses on driveway maneuvers for autonomous vehicles, enhancing passenger pickup and drop-off efficiency. Suzhou Cleva Precision Machinery & Technology Co Ltd's patent introduces a method to generate virtual boundaries for autonomous mobile robots, improving working efficiency. Toyota Motor Corp's patent on a recycling support system optimizes recycling processing in production facilities based on energy usage. Binariang GSM Sdn Bhd's patent enables unmanned aerial vehicles to inspect telecommunication structures efficiently. Novarc Technologies, Inc.'s patent introduces a system for automatically adjusting welding variables in robotic welding systems, ensuring precise and consistent welding. These patents showcase how Automotive companies are incorporating robotics technologies to streamline operations and enhance performance in various applications.

The industry experienced a 37% decline in the number of robotics-related patent applications in Q1 2024 compared with the previous quarter. On an annual basis, the number of robotics-related patent applications in the automotive industry witnessed a drop of 16% compared with Q1 2023.

Strategic deal trends in robotics in automotive industry

Automotive companies are not only focusing on innovation to enhance their patent portfolios but are also making strategic investments in robotics. These investments aim to secure lucrative deals with partners and position themselves at the forefront of industry advancements. Some of the recent deals underscore the importance of robotics in the automotive industry.

In Q1 2024, the number of robotics-related deals in the automotive industry declined by 33% compared with Q1 2023. On a quarterly basis, there was 46% drop in the number of deals in Q1 2024 compared with the previous quarter.

Impact on hiring

In terms of new job posting, in Q1 2024, the automotive industry experienced a 12% growth compared with the previous quarter. On an annual basis, job postings also declined by 28%. Notably, architecture and engineering occupations, with a share of 23%, emerged as the top robotics-related job roles within the automotive industry in Q1 2024, with new job postings rising by 0.36% quarter-on-quarter. Computer and mathematical occupations came in second with a share of 12% in Q1 2024, with new job postings dropping by 19% over the previous quarter. The other prominent robotics roles include installation, maintenance, and repair occupations with an 8% share in Q1 2024, and production occupations with a 7% share of new job postings.

Tesla, Robert Bosch, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz Group, and Magna International are among the top companies leading in robotics hiring within the automotive industry.

Countries driving adoption of robotics in automotive industry

China is the leading country in robotics adoption within the automotive industry, boasting the highest number of robotics-related patents, jobs, and deals. Meanwhile, the US, Japan, Brazil and the UK also maintain significant positions in robotics adoption within the automotive industry.

As automotive companies like Alphabet Inc, Toyota, and Novarc Technologies pioneer robotics innovations, the industry witnesses a transformative shift. Despite a temporary decline in patent applications and deals, strategic investments and hiring trends underscore the enduring importance of robotics in shaping the automotive sector's future.

To further understand GlobalData's analysis on robotics in the automotive industry, buy the report here.

Data Insights

From

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Blending expert knowledge with cutting-edge technology, GlobalData’s unrivalled proprietary data will enable you to decode what’s happening in your market. You can make better informed decisions and gain a future-proof advantage over your competitors.

GlobalData

GlobalData, the leading provider of industry intelligence, provided the underlying data, research, and analysis used to produce this article.

GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.