North American based robotics companies report that new orders sold to North American manufacturing companies fell by 21% in units and 16% in dollars in 2008 compared to 2007. The sharp decline accelerated in the fourth quarter when orders fell by 26% in units and 33% in dollars compared with last year. A total of 12,557 robots valued at US$ 894.9 million were ordered by North American companies in 2008, down from 15,856 robots valued at US$ 1.07 billion last year. When sales to companies outside North America are included, the totals are 14,109 robots valued at US$ 979.4 million, a drop of 18% in units and 15% in dollars. Despite the current difficulties in the automotive industry, there is reason for optimism, said Tammy Mulcahy of ABB Robotics, Chair of RIA’s Statistics Committee. “In times of rising energy costs and rising environmental awareness, the demand for smaller, more economical, environmentally friendly and lower cost cars, are becoming increasingly important,” Mulcahy noted.