AlixPartners, a global consulting firm, released its “2025 Disruption Index” on February 2. (Photo: a screenshot from AlixPartners website)
SEOUL, Feb. 3 (Korea Bizwire) — Global executives have identified the automotive sector as the industry likely to face the most significant disruption this year, according to a new survey. The research also revealed that amid the rise of China’s low-cost AI system DeepSeek, 8 in 10 executives believe artificial intelligence will positively impact their industries.
AlixPartners, a global consulting firm, released its “2025 Disruption Index” on February 2, based on responses from 3,200 executives across 10 sectors including automotive, IT, media, and consumer goods. The index, which the firm has published since 2020, uses a scale of 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating greater anticipated disruption.
The automotive industry topped this year’s index with a score of 76.7, jumping 4.7 points from the previous year – marking the first time in six years that the sector has led the rankings. Auto industry executives cited electrification, autonomous driving, and supply chain instability as major challenges ahead.
The survey revealed that 64% of automotive executives are uncertain about which challenges to prioritize, while 40% expect their business models to undergo transformation this year. Supply chain disruptions, particularly those potentially stemming from tariffs under a possible second Trump administration, emerged as the industry’s primary concern.
In response to these challenges, nearly 70% of automotive executives reported they are exploring transformative merger and acquisition opportunities. Additionally, 65% said they are adjusting their manufacturing and supply strategies in China amid intensifying U.S.-China competition and the rise of Chinese electric vehicle brands.
“Supply chain opacity remains a major issue and makes it difficult for executives to prioritize their actions,” explained Dan Hearsch of AlixPartners.
Regarding artificial intelligence, the survey found that 80% of executives across industries view AI’s impact on their businesses positively. Of these, 61% are primarily focused on using AI to improve profitability, with 39% specifically looking at cost reduction opportunities.
The research also highlighted executives’ optimism about manufacturing automation, with 72% predicting that humanoid robots will be deployed in production facilities within five years.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
