The automotive industry stands tall as the undisputed leader in industrial robot adoption in the United States. According to preliminary 2024 results from the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), this sector remains the primary driving force behind the nation’s automation surge, outpacing all other industries by a wide margin.

Robust Growth and Resilience

In 2024, US automotive companies installed 13,747 industrial robots, marking a robust 11% increase from 2023 (12,421 units). While this is slightly below the 2022 record of 14,657 units, the strong year-on-year growth underscores the industry's ongoing commitment to automation. The rebound in 2024 signals renewed investments as manufacturers adapt to rapid changes, including the transition to electric vehicles, the need for more flexible production lines, and the pressure to remain competitive on a global scale.

Why Automotive Leads in Automation

The automotive sector’s dominance in robot installations is no accident. Automation is essential in modern car manufacturing—used for welding, painting, assembly, and material handling. Robots help achieve consistent quality, higher throughput, and greater efficiency, especially important as manufacturers face labor shortages and rising production costs.

The industry’s continued investment in robotics reflects several trends:

  • Transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs): Automakers are retooling factories for EVs, driving new automation requirements.

  • Flexible Manufacturing: The need to accommodate model variety and customization is leading to more adaptable, robot-driven production lines.

  • Quality and Safety: Robotics help maintain high standards while ensuring workplace safety and ergonomics.

A Clear Leader

While other sectors such as metalworking, electronics, and food processing are investing in automation, none approach the automotive industry’s scale. For comparison, the second-largest sector (metal and machinery) installed just 3,765 units in 2024—less than a third of automotive’s total.

Outlook

Looking ahead, the automotive industry is expected to remain the backbone of US industrial robotics. As the sector continues to innovate and face new challenges, the reliance on automation will only increase. With electrification, digitalization, and shifting consumer expectations reshaping manufacturing, robots will play a central role in helping automakers stay agile and competitive.

Source: International Federation of Robotics – Preliminary Results 2024