As the automotive industry shifts toward renewable energy, electric vehicle (EV) production is accelerating at an unprecedented pace. In 2024, global EV sales reached a record high, with 15.2 million units sold; a 25% increase from the previous year. China led the charge, with EVs making up over 50% of new car sales by mid-2024. In the U.S., EVs accounted for 8% of all vehicle sales, while in the UK, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) represented nearly 20% of the market.
This surge brings immense pressure on manufacturers to scale production efficiently, strengthen supply chains, and meet sustainability targets. SAP plays a crucial role in tackling these challenges, enabling companies to optimise operations and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. For SAP professionals, this transformation presents a wealth of career opportunities.
SAP’s Role in the EV Sector
EV production is highly complex, requiring seamless coordination between suppliers, manufacturers, and dealerships. SAP solutions enhance efficiency across the supply chain, helping manufacturers navigate logistical challenges, reduce waste, and accelerate time-to-market.
SAP S/4HANA is at the heart of production optimisation, facilitating real-time data sharing, improving inventory management, and minimising delays. Coupled with SAP Digital Supply Chain solutions, manufacturers gain advanced forecasting, warehouse management, and logistics capabilities, ensuring critical components reach production lines on time.
Sustainability is another key focus. The SAP Sustainability Control Tower allows manufacturers to track carbon footprints and comply with environmental regulations, ensuring EV production aligns with global green initiatives.
How SAP is Powering Manufacturing
Leading manufacturers are leveraging SAP technology to drive innovation in EV production, boosting efficiency, sustainability, and scalability.
- Audi has fully integrated SAP S/4HANA at its Changchun EV plant in China, enabling seamless data flow between departments and significantly improving supply chain responsiveness. The system helps Audi make real-time adjustments in production to meet shifting demand.
- Tevva, a UK-based hydrogen-electric truck manufacturer, has adopted RISE with SAP on AWS to modernise its manufacturing processes, allowing for rapid scaling while maintaining efficiency and sustainability compliance.
- Ford has implemented SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) to overhaul its warehousing operations, replacing outdated systems with an advanced platform that optimises logistics, improves inventory accuracy, and minimises production bottlenecks.
- BMW and Tesla are using SAP Predictive Analytics to monitor battery health throughout its lifecycle. AI-driven insights allow them to proactively detect and address potential failures, extending battery lifespan and improving long-term vehicle reliability.
These companies showcase SAP’s essential role in modern EV production, not just as a support system but as a driver of innovation and transformation.
Growing Opportunities for SAP Professionals
As the EV sector expands, manufacturers must overcome challenges in scaling production, managing complex supply chains, and meeting strict sustainability targets. SAP professionals are at the centre of this transformation, ensuring production remains efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible.
Some of the most sought-after SAP roles in the EV space include:
- SAP Supply Chain Specialists – Managing the smooth movement of critical EV components with SAP EWM and IBP, helping manufacturers prevent costly delays and maintain production momentum.
- SAP Sustainability Consultants – Leveraging SAP Sustainability Control Tower and Product Footprint Management to help manufacturers monitor and reduce their carbon footprint while ensuring regulatory compliance.
- SAP Logistics Consultants – Optimising transport and warehousing with SAP-driven automation, ensuring raw materials and finished vehicles move seamlessly through the supply chain.
For SAP professionals, now is a chance to be part of one of the biggest technological shifts in modern history. Expertise in SAP S/4HANA, IBP, and predictive analytics will be instrumental in shaping the future of EV manufacturing, making it the ideal time to specialise in this industry.
Future Tends – AI, IoT and Predictive Analytics in EV Manufacturing
The integration of SAP with emerging technologies is revolutionising EV production, making operations more predictive, efficient, and sustainable. AI-driven analytics are not just enhancing efficiency but reshaping how manufacturers make decisions at every stage of production.
- AI-Powered Battery Management
Leading EV manufacturers like BMW and Tesla are using AI-powered battery monitoring systems to predict potential failures before they occur. This extends battery life, reduces warranty claims, and improves vehicle reliability, critical factors for consumer adoption and regulatory compliance. - IoT-Enhanced Production Lines
IoT sensors embedded in production lines track material quality, detect inefficiencies, and optimise energy usage. With SAP Manufacturing Execution processing real-time data, manufacturers can adjust production dynamically, ensuring higher quality standards and minimising waste. - Predictive Analytics for Proactive Maintenance
SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) enables seamless integration of AI, IoT, and predictive analytics across operations. Manufacturers can implement proactive maintenance strategies, refine logistics planning, and enhance fleet management with real-time data-driven insights.
For SAP professionals, this transformation is creating high-value career opportunities. Expertise in AI-powered supply chain optimisation, predictive maintenance using digital twins, and sustainability tracking with SAP Green Ledger is increasingly in demand. As the EV industry advances, SAP specialists who can bridge traditional ERP systems with emerging technologies will be at the forefront of driving efficiency and innovation.
Why SAP Talent is in Demand
With EV adoption accelerating, manufacturers are under mounting pressure to manage supply chains, meet sustainability regulations, and enhance operational efficiency. Finding the right SAP talent to address these challenges is becoming increasingly difficult.
This is where specialist SAP recruitment agencies like Whitehall play a crucial role. With over 15 years of experience, we connect manufacturers with SAP professionals who have the right technical skills and industry expertise. Whether you need supply chain specialists, sustainability consultants, or manufacturing experts, we help businesses secure the best talent to stay ahead in the evolving EV landscape.
Drive the Future of EV Manufacturing
If you’re looking to build a high-performing SAP team or take the next step in your SAP career within the EV sector, get in touch with our specialist recruiters today. Let’s power the future together.
