If you’ve spent any time around cars, you’ve probably heard the name Bosch. Chances are, Bosch parts are already in your car, your home, or even your smartphone. In the automotive world, Bosch is especially known for supplying fuel injectors to OEMs, giving the company a deep understanding of the market.
So when Bosch’s North American president predicts that most cars in the U.S. will still rely on internal combustion engines by 2035, it’s definitely a statement worth noting. Their perspective comes from years of seeing what actually gets built and sold, not just trends or headlines.
Still Around, But Not Necessarily As Die-Hard Combustion Fans Want
“Up through 2035, about 70% of vehicles will still rely on internal combustion engines,” said Paul Thomas, president of Bosch North America, during CES in Las Vegas. He was specifically talking about the U.S., where electric vehicles are struggling to gain mass-market traction.
Thomas added, “Now, will these cars have range extenders? Mild hybrids? Strong hybrids? We think so. Battery-electric vehicles will still have a place in the market, but the pace of electrification is changing based on what consumers actually want.”
The idea that gasoline engines will stick around in hybrid cars isn’t shocking, but it’s significant coming directly from one of the world’s largest automotive suppliers. It underscores that while EVs are growing globally, the U.S. market is seeing a slower transition, with hybrids acting as a bridge.
Bosch itself has felt the effects of the EV hype, having cut jobs after rapid expansion in electrification. But Thomas believes the company is positioned well, saying, “We’ve been very balanced in our approach to electrification, hybrids, and what I’ll call ‘natural propulsion.’” He also thinks extended-range EVs—where a gas engine charges the battery—will help push all-electric vehicle technology forward.
Even with recent U.S. federal rollbacks on emissions standards, Bosch remains focused on clean technology. Thomas emphasized, “We’re still 100% committed to improving engine technology to reduce emissions. The worst thing would be for suppliers to rest on their laurels and stop improving internal combustion engines.”
A Contrary Opinion For Those Invested In All-Out EV Adoption
As InsideEVs points out, what Thomas is saying challenges the common belief that as batteries get better and cheaper, switching to all-electric vehicles will naturally take over the market. That idea mostly comes from EV advocates and companies whose business depends entirely on mass adoption of electric cars. Bosch, on the other hand, isn’t solely invested in all-electric vehicles—they see a broader mix of technologies, including hybrids and improved internal combustion engines, as part of the future.
FAQ’s
1. What did Bosch’s North America president say about combustion engines?
Paul Thomas said that up through 2035, about 70% of vehicles in the US will still use internal combustion engine technology.
2. Does this mean EVs won’t exist in 2035?
No. Bosch still believes battery electric vehicles will have a place in the market, but ICEs and hybrids will remain dominant.
3. What types of vehicles will continue to use combustion engines?
Traditional internal combustion vehicles, mild and strong hybrids, and extended-range EVs with combustion generators are all expected to persist.
4. Why does Bosch think combustion engines will remain?
They believe consumer demand in the US is slowing the adoption of all-electric vehicles and that hybrids and improved ICEs will fill the transition period.
5. Does Bosch plan to continue developing combustion engines?
Yes. Bosch continues to invest in improving ICEs, including emissions control technology.
6. How does this statement contrast with EV industry predictions?
EV advocates predict mass adoption of battery electric vehicles as batteries become cheaper, while Bosch emphasizes a slower, hybrid-inclusive transition.
7. What is an extended-range EV?
An extended-range EV uses a combustion engine as a generator to recharge the battery, extending the car’s range beyond battery limits.
8. How does Bosch view extended-range EVs?
They see extended-range EVs as a way to accelerate electric vehicle development while keeping ICEs relevant.
9. Did Bosch face challenges with EV technology?
Yes. Rapid expansion in the electrification space forced Bosch to cut jobs, showing the risks of betting solely on EVs.
10. Will emissions standards affect Bosch’s plans?
Yes. Bosch is committed to meeting emissions regulations and improving engine technology despite regulatory changes in the US.
11. Does Bosch believe the ICE will become obsolete soon?
No. They argue that ICEs will continue to play a major role in vehicles for the next decade and beyond.
12. What does “natural propulsion” mean in Bosch’s context?
It refers to traditional combustion engine technology, which Bosch continues to develop alongside hybrids and EVs.
13. How does consumer demand affect EV adoption?
Slower-than-expected demand in the US is prolonging the lifespan of combustion engines and hybrids.
14. What is Bosch’s approach to vehicle electrification?
They maintain a balanced approach: investing in EVs, hybrids, and improving combustion engines.
15. Will Bosch stop supplying parts for combustion engines?
No. They continue to manufacture and supply parts for ICEs, fuel injectors, and hybrid systems.
16. Why is Bosch’s perspective important?
Bosch is one of the world’s largest auto suppliers, giving them significant insight into vehicle trends and production realities.
17. How does Bosch’s prediction affect the auto industry?
It suggests the transition to all-electric vehicles will be slower than some analysts predict, keeping hybrids and ICEs relevant.
18. Are hybrid vehicles expected to grow according to Bosch?
Yes. Hybrids will bridge the gap between ICE vehicles and fully electric models.
19. What is a mild hybrid?
A mild hybrid uses a small electric motor to assist the engine, improving fuel efficiency but cannot run solely on electricity.
20. What is a strong hybrid?
A strong hybrid can operate in electric-only mode for short distances and uses a combustion engine for longer trips.
21. How will ICE vehicles adapt to emissions regulations?
Bosch is investing in cleaner engines and advanced emissions controls to comply with stricter standards.
22. Does this mean EV hype is over?
Not necessarily. Bosch suggests that while EVs will grow, the pace may not match earlier high expectations.
23. Why is the US market slower in EV adoption?
Factors include consumer habits, charging infrastructure, and preferences for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs.
24. What role do hybrids play in Bosch’s forecast?
Hybrids act as a bridge technology, allowing consumers to reduce emissions while still using combustion engines.
25. Are all car manufacturers following Bosch’s view?
No. Some EV-focused automakers aim for full electrification much sooner, but Bosch’s stance reflects mainstream OEM realities.
26. What does “grossly exaggerated” mean in the article’s title?
It refers to the idea that predictions of the death of the internal combustion engine are overstated.
27. How reliable is Bosch’s prediction?
As a major supplier with industry insights, Bosch’s view carries weight, though it is still a forecast subject to market changes.
28. Will EVs still grow in the US?
Yes. Bosch acknowledges EVs will have a place, but they won’t dominate the market as quickly as some expect.
29. What is the main takeaway from Bosch’s statement?
Internal combustion engines will remain relevant for at least the next decade, alongside hybrids and some electric vehicles.
30. How does Bosch view the role of battery technology?
Improving battery technology is important, but it will not immediately replace combustion engines due to market realities.
31. What is the impact of federal emissions policy on this forecast?
Even with rolling back standards, Bosch sees continued investment in emissions reduction technology as essential.
32. How will ICEs improve over time?
Through more efficient fuel injectors, hybrid integration, and cleaner exhaust technology.
33. Are extended-range EVs considered electric vehicles?
Yes, but they still rely on a combustion engine to extend driving range, combining electric and ICE technology.
34. How does this affect EV-only automakers?
It means they may face slower mass adoption and need to adapt strategies for hybrid and ICE competitors.
35. What does Bosch mean by “ramp-up of electrification”?
It refers to the gradual increase of EV and hybrid vehicle production and market share over time.
36. Will ICE vehicles still be manufactured in 2035?
Yes. Bosch predicts a significant portion of vehicles will continue using internal combustion engines.
37. How does consumer preference impact the ICE lifespan?
Higher demand for SUVs, trucks, and hybrids prolongs the relevance of combustion engines.
38. What is Bosch’s position on EV-only hype?
They caution that market realities may prevent rapid mass adoption of all-electric vehicles in the US.
39. Will this slow down the EV transition globally?
Not necessarily. Bosch’s statement specifically addresses the US market, where adoption has been slower.
40. How does Bosch maintain a balanced approach?
By investing in ICEs, hybrids, and EV technologies simultaneously to adapt to evolving market demands.
41. Does Bosch’s view affect fuel infrastructure planning?
Yes. Continued ICE use implies gas stations and hybrid-supporting infrastructure will remain relevant through 2035.
42. Are luxury and performance vehicles included in Bosch’s forecast?
Yes. Many will continue to use ICE or hybrid powertrains, particularly in larger, high-performance models.
43. How do hybrid vehicles reduce emissions?
They use electric motors to assist the engine, lowering fuel consumption and reducing tailpipe emissions.
44. What role does Bosch play in emissions reduction?
Bosch develops fuel injection systems, hybrid components, and exhaust technology to improve efficiency and emissions.
45. How do consumers benefit from Bosch’s hybrid and ICE strategy?
They get familiar, versatile vehicles with better fuel economy while EV infrastructure continues to grow.
46. Will ICE vehicles still evolve technologically?
Yes. Bosch plans ongoing improvements to engines, transmissions, and emissions controls.
47. Does Bosch see a future for hydrogen or alternative fuels?
While not directly mentioned, Bosch supports multiple propulsion types, including hybrids and potential alternative fuels.
48. Are Bosch’s projections specific to North America?
Yes. Global EV adoption rates may differ, with some markets transitioning to electric vehicles faster.
49. How should consumers interpret Bosch’s statement?
They should understand that hybrids and ICE vehicles will remain options for many years, alongside growing EV adoption.
50. Is this forecast final?
No. Bosch’s forecast is based on current trends and market expectations, which could change over time.
51. What is the significance of hybrid adoption in the US?
Hybrids will bridge the gap between ICE and full EVs, helping consumers adapt gradually to electric mobility.