Probably the most important trend in the automotive industry is the worldwide shift to electric vehicles (EVs). New vehicle inventory levels till December 2022 were 52% below December 2019 but 56% above January 2022. On the other hand, personal vehicles are on the rise due to improving urban road infrastructure, and the popularity of pre-owned cars among young people is also driving the market growth. Fuel-cell electric vehicles will emerge worldwide in 2025 due to their faster recharge, extended range, and zero emissions.
US-based startup Aeluma develops semiconductor technology for mobile devices, AI, AR/VR, autonomous systems, and other applications. It combines compound semiconductor nanomaterials with scalable silicon manufacturing for mass-market microelectronics. This approach ensures our reports provide reliable, actionable insights into the automotive innovation ecosystem while highlighting startups driving technological advancements in the industry. However, an SSAB survey reveals that cost and investment challenges remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. Despite these hurdles, the integration of sustainable materials is expected to accelerate as regulatory frameworks tighten and consumer demand for environmentally responsible products grows.
Top 10 Global Automotive Industry Trends in 2025
This ensures precise planning, reduces downtime, and enhances efficiency in assembly operations. This decision also highlights a broader trend toward diversification in battery production hubs. With the Middle East emerging as a significant player in the EV supply chain, manufacturers must adapt their strategies to seize these new opportunities.
Printing: Revolution in Automotive Manufacturing
With a computer or smartphone, buyers can choose desired features, secure financing, and even take virtual walk-around and test drives. In 2025, more dealerships are expected to offer online sales, vehicle inspection, and home delivery. Solid-state batteries, which promise to offer higher energy density and improved safety over traditional lithium-ion batteries, are on the horizon. These batteries can provide longer driving ranges and faster charging times, which have historically been limitations for EV adoption. Automakers like Toyota and QuantumScape are heavily investing in this technology, and we can expect breakthroughs in battery chemistry and design in the coming years.
Automotive Industry Trends 2025: Shifting Gears Toward Innovation
Google and Ford recently announced a connected car partnership called Team Upshift. This type of vehicle is defined by its ability to communicate with other software systems and collect data from its surroundings. And TuSimple is hoping to begin selling completely autonomous Level 4 trucks to fleet operators in 2024. In addition, more than half of all vehicles are expected to fall into the Level 1-5 range in 2024. There are already over 30 million vehicles on the road that meet the Level 1 standard. Sales for BEV and PHEV in Europe increased by 137% in 2020 compared with the previous year (despite a 20% year-over-year decrease in the total car market).
Innovation Map outlines Top 10 Automotive Trends & 20 Promising Startups
In 2025, used passenger car registrations are forecast to hit 179 million globally and are predicted to grow by 1.4% year-on-year. The cost of new cars remains at an all-time high, and with higher interest rates, consumers are likely either to wait for rates to decrease or to turn to the used car market. 2025 is predicted to be a big year for self-driving taxi services, as companies look to re-imagine the future of the automotive and taxi-hailing industry. In 2025, Uber and GM Cruise will partner, allowing users of the Uber ride-hailing platform to book fully self-driving vehicles from the app in selected US cities.
Distributed Additive Manufacturing enables Large Scale Sustainable Parts Production
Maximising the ROI to investors and stakeholders while remaining competitive will be priorities of the industry. The continued global expansion of various players will require a strategic focus on supply chain efficiencies and may bring transformation and consolidation in the industry. Figures from the last few years show that the EV adoption rate is still slow at a global level. However, the share of cars that are electric (hybrid and full electric) continues to rise. Also, despite the slowing adoption rate, data has shown that the number of electric and hybrid vehicles actually on the road has dramatically increased (from 26 million in 2022 to EpicVIN maintenance history for engines 40 million in 2023). Regardless, with the continued global slowdown of EV adoption, we can also expect original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to follow suit, with a decrease in the level of production, especially in the West.
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- This shift is driven by the growing need for more efficient power management in electric vehicles, resulting in smarter and more streamlined EV designs.
- General Intelligence strengthens the evolution of software-defined vehicles by aligning human-inspired learning with safety.
- However, as per the new Agency model, we will get to see that the people would directly be dealing with the OEMs and the dealer’s profit would be shared by OEMs.
- Human-machine interfaces (HMIs), including voice-based and haptic feedback systems, are expanding control over various car functions.
- Tesla already employs single inverter housings across its models, offering efficient integration of power electronics.
- The infrastructure for EVs is expected to become more widespread and advanced, supporting the increasing number of electric vehicles on the road.
- The World Health Organization links 1.35 million annual deaths to road accidents, creating urgency for autonomy.
- As a result of this partnership, Ford is expected to launch its own self-driving car business.
Battery manufacturers have significantly reduced their production since early December due to the unpromising demand in the upcoming months. However, their preferences changed after some time, Buyers are willing to spend an amount, while looking for the best vehicles available in the market. Businesses would start optimizing their search guides as per the consumer’s preferences. To address these threats, proactive cyber security is a must for automakers and their partners across the value chain. Robust IoT (Internet of Things) security, regular software updates, and well-prepared incident response plans are the essential building blocks of a strong cyber security strategy.
Regenerative braking systems, crucial in EVs and hybrid cars (HEVs and PHEVs), contribute to energy recovery rates of 5% to 20%, depending on driving conditions. The platform includes geofencing, driver behavior monitoring, route mapping, and integrated or standalone camera options, accessible via a dashboard and mobile app. For asset tracking, the startup provides small, discrete devices with long-life batteries lasting up to five years, waterproof ratings, and location monitoring alerts for reliability in outdoor conditions. XCognition captures operator input or sensor data to generate execution-ready robotic programs to increase accuracy and reduce deployment time. XTrude models the physics of FDM processes to optimize parameters like flow rate and extrusion temperature to ensure large-scale 3D printing.
China remains dominant but new players are also making noise on the EV scene
Data-driven connectivity services and on-demand mobility will add up to $1.5 trillion to the automotive revenue pool by the year 2030. Electrification and autonomous vehicles will remain megatrends, transforming the sector and forcing automakers, suppliers, and dealers to adapt to new technologies and business methods. The new year will also witness L4 implementation, with companies like Baidu, Pony.ai, and WeRide conducting extensive road tests across various cities. Initiatives and support from the Chinese government, such as pilot zones and regulatory frameworks, are further accelerating the process. OEMs are advancing and navigating regulatory challenges to introduce and test L3 and L4 automation, setting the background for augmented adoption of autonomous vehicles.
EcoG builds an Electric Vehicle Charging Platform
Toyota unveiled its forward-thinking approach to electric vehicle design, focusing on sustainability, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Peugeot introduced groundbreaking technologies like the Hypersquare control system and steer-by-wire, marking a significant leap in electric vehicle design and user experience. These innovations represent the brand’s commitment to redefining driving dynamics in the EV era.
Industry 4.0 and Digitalization in Manufacturing
This deal comes at a time when car sales in the EU have seen a noticeable dip as consumer preferences shift. Data suggests a decline in car sales across most categories, particularly traditional fuel vehicles like petrol and diesel, which saw significant drops in market share and registrations. While BEVs and PHEVs showed some growth in September 2024, the year-to-date figures for BEVs are still lower than last year, and PHEVs also experienced a notable decline.
- This digital transformation enhances scalability, a key driver in the competitive automotive sector.
- Singapore-based startup Beam focuses on e-scooters to promote shared mobility in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Brazil is leading the way by a large margin, followed by Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia and Chile, respectively.
- US-based startup NuNami designs automotive semiconductors that provide reliable connectivity and safety-critical interfaces.
- Consistent brand messaging across all channels, including in-car infotainment systems and websites, can help foster long-term customer relationships, promoting brand loyalty and advocacy.
- This article explores the strategic reasons behind the move, including the UAE’s favourable energy policies, market accessibility, and logistical advantages.
- Singapore’s adaptive traffic signal systems, along with real-time monitoring, ERP pricing, and predictive analytics, improve traffic efficiency.
- Data from the past 10 years shows the sale of luxury vehicles making a steep climb in 2022.
- These advancements are critical as manufacturers aim to balance efficiency, durability, and safety.
Also, advanced composites and recycled inputs reduce reliance on virgin resources. Sustainable manufacturing lowers emissions, which allows automakers to meet compliance requirements and reduce their environmental footprint. Cleaner production methods reduce operating costs and free resources for reinvestment in new technologies.
Shared/micro-mobility presents a potential shift among consumers
One critical challenge in transitioning to electric mobility is the availability and accessibility of charging infrastructure. By 2025, significant investments in fast-charging networks will be essential for EV adoption to reach mass-market penetration. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technologies continue to evolve, bringing unprecedented changes to vehicle safety and functionality. Additionally, infrastructure developments like Toyota‘s new battery plant in North Carolina underscore the industry’s dedication to scaling EV output. Expected to produce batteries for up to 800,000 vehicles annually, the plant will be powered entirely by renewable energy, demonstrating a dual focus on production efficiency and sustainability. With established automakers facing nimble startups in the mobility race, building new businesses should be a priority for auto executives.
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- Manufacturers that successfully integrate these elements into their strategies will not only navigate the challenges of today but also position themselves as leaders in the future of mobility.
- The strong focus on technological advancements in the automotive sphere has also meant that cyber security is becoming a larger concern in a historically unconcerned industry.
- One such order significantly impacts the future of EVs and EV infrastructure by rolling back policies that once supported their growth.
- The ongoing global semiconductor shortage continues to cast a shadow over manufacturing progress, particularly for industries such as automotive and electronics.
- However, there are yet to be more autonomous vehicles on the road due to the technological and safety challenges that must be overcome.
- These technologies aim to reduce accidents and provide a safer driving experience.
- On the other hand, personal vehicles are on the rise due to improving urban road infrastructure, and the popularity of pre-owned cars among young people is also driving the market growth.
Along with battery-powered electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) are another alternative to internal combustion engines. By 2035, approximately 16% of all new LV (light vehicle) sales in the US are predicted to consist of advanced automated vehicles (L3, L4, and L5). Fewer new vehicle purchases mean consumers hold onto their vehicles longer, reducing the available used inventory and increasing prices. Additionally, interest rates for used vehicle loans are higher than those for new cars. It is anticipated that used-vehicle sales will not return to pre-pandemic levels of around 40 million units per year until 2025, similar to new-vehicle sales.
Why the EV Boom Hasn’t Happened
- As will be discussed later, with more data being collected for premium features, the inevitable concern for data security is raised, and cyber security threats loom overhead.
- Legacy brands like Ford, GM, and Volkswagen are launching dedicated EV lines, while startups like Rivian and Lucid push luxury and performance boundaries.
- Moreover, the startup offers fleet-grade protection through continuous monitoring and predictive alerts.
- There will be continued demand for legacy process technology, with the construction and facilitation of the ESMC fab in Dresden progressing through 2025.
- After demand started coming back, there simply wasn’t an adequate supply of chips, and the auto industry has been feeling the effects ever since.
Shared mobility reduces individual car ownership, especially in urban areas, impacting vehicle sales volumes but increasing demand for fleet vehicles and mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) platforms. It encourages OEMs to develop subscription models, short-term rentals, and multi-modal transport integration. Shared mobility also influences vehicle design toward durability, modularity, and connectivity. Autonomous driving is a key innovation driver but remains in a development and regulatory phase.
On the other side of the globe, in Asia, China has implemented a landmark energy policy, aptly named the ‘Energy Law’, as of January 2025. The law emphasises a cleaner and more efficient use of fossil fuels, placing a higher emphasis on sustainability and developing renewable energy infrastructures. This comes as China continues to make their presence known in the global EV scene, with ramped-up production and dominance in the international EV market.
In the Electric Vehicle Market, 2025 Will Be the Year of More – More Models, More Incentives, More Discounting, More Advertising, and More Sales Muscle. People are shifting to EVs because of their design and their being environmentally friendly. 50% of buyers are willing to opt for EVs, so businesses should surely focus on marketing electric vehicles to make their brands more broader.
General Intelligence builds Self-Driving Intelligence Software
The AV industry itself is just in its infancy, as there are only 17,000 self-driving cars on the road in the US today. Searches for “autonomous driving” have increased by over 1,029% over the past 10 years. However, it is estimated that over 60% of all Americans have garages that will allow for electric vehicle charging. Some countries (and California) have even committed to phasing out all new sales of combustion engine vehicles over the next few decades.
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Owing to these advancements, the global SDV market is set to reach USD 3.3 trillion by 2034, growing at 31.2% annually. Also, GPS and V2X connectivity improve fleet distribution and service reliability. Telematics and IoT sensors monitor vehicle condition and enable predictive maintenance. For instance, Planet42 extends access to underbanked consumers in South Africa and Mexico. Additionally, the startup offers features such as platooning algorithms for safe and efficient vehicle grouping.
Driving Into the Future: Top Automotive Innovations and Insights of 2024
This is not just a European problem with Volkswagen and Stellantis, as Honda and Nissan merge, and Ford and General Motors struggle. Software-defined vehicles (SDVs), where software manages essential functions like steering, braking, and infotainment, will see rapid growth over the next few years. SDVs are more efficient and safer and can be updated with the latest technologies through software, keeping them up to date in a constantly evolving industry. The big data market in automotive is growing, with a projected market size of USD 5.92 billion in 2024, expanding at a CAGR of 16.78% to reach USD 12.86 billion by 2029. Startups are developing big data solutions to help manufacturers and related industries streamline operations and maximize profits.
The software integrates a one-shot multitask network capable of performing 2D detection, semantic segmentation, and monocular depth estimation. It processes these tasks in real time at over 120 frames per second on consumer-grade graphics processing units (GPUs). Indian startup General Intelligence creates self-driving intelligence software that supports software-defined vehicles in adapting to diverse driving environments.
The U.S. and China trade war has also influenced the search for alternative sourcing options. Labor costs are another factor in the rise of local sourcing, with countries such as Taiwan, Cambodia, and Laos providing a lower-cost labor alternative to China. Given the opportunity to significantly disrupt private transport and shape the future of the automotive industry, companies are expected to continue investing in autonomous vehicles in 2025. At the same time, a limited EV infrastructure and uneven policy application dampen the pace of meaningful progress throughout the region.