Wall Street Sees Automakers Riding AI Boom as Legacy Players Pivot to Infrastructure

The expansion of AI data centers is driving demand not only for chips but also for power, energy storage and high-voltage equipment. Traditional automakers and parts suppliers can repurpose their expertise in electric-vehicle batteries, powertrains and electrical engineering for stationary infrastructure. Morgan Stanley and Evercore ISI therefore view the convergence of autos and energy as a "non-obvious AI play."

In reports published on June 3, 2026, analysts at Morgan Stanley and Evercore ISI highlighted Ford, which had just posted its best monthly performance in 17 years, while BorgWarner had gained more than 70% year to date. Evercore ISI was also bullish on Versigent, which was spun off from Aptiv on April 1, setting a bull-case price target of $90. Since the separation, Versigent and Aptiv shares had risen more than 70% and about 25%, respectively.