The top 5 priorities on the minds of automotive suppliers include sustainability, supply chain resilience and attracting skilled talent, according to a survey of suppliers by S&P Global

LAS VEGAS – February 17, 2026 – The volatility of the market will continue throughout 2026, according to a new analysis by S&P Global. The firm conducted a qualitative and quantitative study of 59 suppliers. 

“The automotive industry enters 2026 with a clear message from suppliers: volatility isn’t fading, it’s becoming the operational norm,” wrote Matthew Beecham, a senior research analyst with S&P Global, in a blog post about the research. 

Among the findings, the research identified the top five priorities for automotive suppliers this year:

1. Prioritizing sustainability

“75% of suppliers are prioritizing sustainability practices, including the use of recycled materials and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.”

2. Improving supply chain resilience

“70% of suppliers reported enhancing their supply chain strategies to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical tensions and economic volatility.”

3. Complying with regulations

“65% of companies are investing in compliance solutions to meet evolving regulatory standards, particularly concerning emissions and safety.”

4. Hiring skilled talent

“60% of companies indicated that talent shortages in specialized areas remain a challenge, prompting investment in workforce development.”

5. Building strategic partnerships

“50% of suppliers are actively pursuing strategic partnerships with OEMs and technology firms to enhance innovation and market reach.”

Commentary from suppliers

The full paper placed these priorities into context with quotes from suppliers S&P Global spoke with for the research. 

Here are a few of those comments:

Uncertainty and complexity

 “The uncertain impact of emerging mobility solutions, such as electrification, Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and hydrogenation, has introduced additional complexity and concern […] external factors, including emissions and REACH legislation, as well as ongoing tariff uncertainties, have necessitated an unprecedented level of flexibility and agility.”

Daniela Patrizi, general manager, Europe, Middle East, Africa and India, Lubricants, Chevron

Executing at scale

“In 2025, the challenge was executing at scale while managing uncertainty. Beyond shifting trade policies or supply chain disruptions, it meant helping customers manage major technology transitions, such as the increasing use of GenAI in design, manufacturing and supply chain management, while controlling costs.”

Matthew Cole, senior vice president and president of Advanced Safety and User Experience, Aptiv

Policy uncertainty

“While tariffs, chip shortages and cyberattacks have undoubtedly posed challenges both in 2025 and in recent years, the main point of uncertainty is shifting legislation.”

John Hollingworth, sales and marketing director, MAHLE Powertrain

Download the full report from S&P Global

The full report is freely available for download with registration form S&P Global: 2026 Automotive Supplier Outlook.

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AAPEX 2026 will be held from November 3–5, 2026, in Las Vegas, NV at The Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum. Complimentary passes are available to the media; email: [email protected]. 

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