The automotive manufacturing industry is evolving rapidly as manufacturers respond to technological advancements, consumer preferences, and regulatory changes. With established automakers facing nimble startups in the mobility race, building new businesses should be a priority for auto executives. 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.
a. Carbon Neutrality Goals
Further, this also offers software solutions for fleet and asset tracking as well as connected cars. AI is also transforming automotive manufacturing by speeding up production and cutting costs. Factories equipped with IoT-enabled devices and machine learning capabilities are emerging as the backbone of next-generation automotive production. These facilities use data-driven insights to optimise processes, reduce energy consumption, and increase operational efficiency. In 2024, the automotive industry experienced significant transformations, with advancements in electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving technologies, and shifts in global markets. The auto manufacturers who rely on the older versions of chips which are not advanced and powerful will disrupt the growth of the automotive industry.
Electrified Vehicles Top 50% of Sales in China
Sensor fusion drives the automotive industry’s shift to autonomy by integrating data from cameras, light detection and ranging (LiDAR), radar, and ultrasonic sensors into a unified perception system. Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Pilot showcases this with over 35 sensors, including LiDAR and radar, working together to achieve certified Level 3 autonomy. In 2026, the auto industry accelerates its transition from combustion-based production to electrified, software-driven, and sustainable mobility. Sustainable manufacturing and EV expansion deliver cost savings, regulatory compliance, and reduced emissions, positioning automakers as leaders in green mobility.
Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) will Witness High Demand
Along with an increase in refueling stations, look to see an increase in the variety of FCEVs available to consumers in the coming years. In addition, Hawaii passed a bill in 2022 that will create a hydrogen refueling system rebate for developers. Any infrastructure that’s built after January 1, 2023, and utilizes renewable hydrogen will be eligible for up to $200k.
The industry will continue to experience disruptions from geopolitical headwinds to regulatory and legislative developments, data security and economic challenges. 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. What initially appeared to be a niche sector is now the foundation of the auto industry’s transition. While automakers spend billions developing electric cars, most governments worldwide have ambitious plans to phase out internal combustion engines.
The global automotive sensor fusion market is projected to reach USD 3.3 billion by 2030 at a 42.4% CAGR. The market reflects its role in meeting strict safety rules and consumer demand for smarter vehicles. The main advantage of this digital technology is that it allows auto manufacturers to create complex and at the same time lightweight vehicle parts. 3D printing them is faster than traditional manufacturing and cheaper, which makes the whole process more efficient. Also, additive manufacturing makes prototyping more rapid, which enables faster design and testing periods for new vehicles.
Self-driving taxis are already available in parts of China and several US cities. More driverless journeys will occur as technology continues to be enhanced and refined. Global passenger EV sales grew 60% from 6.5 million units in 2021 to 10.5 million in 2022. EV sales are going to increase aggressively in 2025, providing a bright spot in the automotive industry. Governments are implementing innovative policies to encourage sales without increasing costs or benefiting high-income households.
Q) What are the predictions for the automotive industry?
While fully autonomous vehicles have the potential to revolutionise how society moves from A to B, the industry is taking a more measured approach to implementation. Safety concerns remain in the spotlight – this is leading to greater acceptance of incremental developments in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) rather than pushing for immediate full autonomy. Major automotive manufacturers are responding by rethinking their revenue models and investing heavily in on-demand vehicle access services. Meanwhile, tech companies such as Uber and Lyft continue to expand their digital-first transportation solutions, creating a more competitive and diverse mobility landscape. The startup strengthens autonomous driving by providing reliable and production-ready Level 4 vehicles that expand commercial mobility solutions. Semiconductors enhance safety by enabling faster decisions and reducing accident risks.
This could allow drivers to retain their jobs, but avoid the injuries and deaths that result from exhaustion. Additionally, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, and Jaguar have all released more affordable EVs that have a range of anywhere from 200 miles to 250 miles. Right now, there are only about 73,215 public EV charging stations across the US.
a. Urban Mobility and Shared Vehicles
Lithium-ion battery prices have fallen by 89% over the last decade, reaching a price of $137/kWh in 2020. After a disappointing 2019 in terms of EV sales, 2020 sales surpassed expectations, growing over 40% year-over-year. The industry itself, however, has remained relatively stable over the last decade.
Methodology: How We Created the Automotive Trend Report
Therefore, these were the five trends transforming the automotive industry this year and beyond. However, overcoming supply chain challenges takes time, so they are likely to remain in 2025. Examples are bikes, scooters, and mopeds, as well as the electric versions of these vehicles.
Vehicle Cybersecurity
It also provides validation services that ensure resilience against potential risks. German startup CARNIQ Technologies enhances vehicle cybersecurity through web-based and AI-powered tools that ensure compliance with automotive standards. The rapid rollout of software-defined vehicles, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) networks, and electrification pushes automakers to secure digital systems as rigorously as physical components. Moreover, the startup’s marketplace connects professionals in a secure environment. It provides exclusive access to vehicles and optimizes purchase decisions based on supply and demand trends. Also, digital twin technology builds virtual replicas of supply chains to simulate disruptions and optimize performance.
Major transportation industry trends in 2026
Its RISC-V IP processors adopt 32/64-bit architectures supported by a nine-stage dual-issue pipeline. EVs typically use 2-3 times more semiconductor content than internal combustion engine models, and in powertrain-specific components, that multiplier is possibly higher. Demand is rising, especially for power electronics, battery management systems, and more energy-efficient chips. In parallel, the startup offers carAISuite, an AI-driven tool that automates engineering and compliance activities.
- This assists the drivers in keeping lanes, prevents collisions, and enables autonomous driving options.
- As of 2023, the two now equip Ford and Lincoln vehicles with a built-in Android operating system.
- The industry trends show a positive perspective for the times to come despite the expected global slowdown and supply chain disruptions.
- On the bright side, partnerships between automakers and tech companies are fuelling innovation and accelerating development, bringing their vision of safer, smarter transportation closer to reality.
- What lies ahead is not just a continuation of trends but the potential for transformation that pushes the boundaries of how we move, connect, and thrive.
- Moreover, the solution is customizable to any car model or specific OEM requirements.
Connected, autonomous, shared, and electric (CASE) vehicle technologies remain a strong focus in automotive markets
Hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly popular—they combine electric power with the reliability of a combustion engine. Compared to EVs, they don’t require charging, but at the same time reduce carbon emissions. However, it’s estimated that there will be 33 million autonomous vehicles on the road by 2040. Consumer trends in the automotive industry reveal that short videos are more effective than text in converting leads into customers in the automotive industry. Dealerships can take advantage of various videos, such as how-to videos, car highlights, and customer testimonials. The modernized vehicles available in the market have opened an opportunity for the firms that supply and also manufacture the parts.
Autonomous vehicles are changing the face of the auto industry
The number of connected cars worldwide will likely reach 400 million by 2025 up from 237 million in 2021. The startup also offers META, a compact shuttle for urban mobility; and SPACE for passenger transportation. These vehicles use a re-assembly factory model, which allows upgrades and updates to extend their lifecycle. Moreover, lightweight and bio-based materials are used to reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency, which aligns with sustainability goals. These pods use AI and machine learning algorithms for real-time perception and adaptive decision-making. The startup’s technology allows these pods to adapt across industries, enhancing efficiency and safety in transporting people and goods.
- The Wall Street Journal reports that dealerships have been known to charge $40k above MSRP on luxury cars.
- While it’s true that at the end of 2023, there wasn’t an adequate supply of electric mobility hubs, the charging infrastructure in Europe has improved drastically.
- Additionally, it uses the Future Trends Index to identify and prioritize relevant design directions across different markets.
- This approach could significantly reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable automotive industry.
- Prices are expected to decrease as supply-chain issues improve, and sales continue to soften.
Best of 2025 How Generative AI Is Transforming Industry
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. Threats like supply chain attacks, data breaches, ransomware, and state-sponsored intrusions are on the rise. Of course, the danger does not stop with vehicles as smart infrastructure is also at risk, potentially jeopardising safety and operational reliability. 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 40 million in 2023).
After the pandemic, we developed a habit of shifting all requirements to online methods, and so do goes with the automobile industry. Our new generation which is called millennials or Genz researches everything online before the actual purchase. Car dealerships are no exception, as recent auto trends reveal that customers prefer to experience a car or dealership before purchasing.
Therefore, websites must be easily readable and accessible on mobile devices, with clear calls to action. Brands provide specific offers by analyzing your needs, preferences, and behavior. Paul Marinelli gets straight to the point—exploring key trends and innovations shaping tomorrow’s mobility in just five minutes. Long intersection of technology and automobiles journeys are no longer exhausting and tedious, as everyone on board can watch movies, stream their favorite music, and play games through pre-loaded entertainment services. These cars even come equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots, ensuring easy Internet access for all passengers.
Localized production and sourcing are gaining momentum as companies aim to mitigate risks and ensure a steady supply of components. Automakers are adopting greener processes, from sourcing eco-friendly materials to utilizing renewable energy in manufacturing plants. Many of those trends will be on display at the Consumer Electronics Show next week in Las Vegas. Honda will be showing its Series 0 platform that will be used for its SAE Level 4 driverless car in 2026.
Key players like Bosch, Continental AG, and ZF Friedrichshafen AG are investing in technological advancements. They are focusing on lightweight materials and improved energy recovery efficiency. Telematics adoption in logistics and transportation industries is driven by features such as real-time tracking, driver behavior analysis, and fuel consumption reduction. Singaporean startup EVIE Autonomous designs electric, autonomous shuttles for last-mile delivery, passenger transport, agriculture, and cargo movement.
EcoG builds an Electric Vehicle Charging Platform
- AI is also transforming automotive manufacturing by speeding up production and cutting costs.
- As a car seller, dealer, or manufacturer, you must only build flexible yet solid automotive marketing strategies and create a strong sense of customer trust and loyalty.
- By securing these systems, cybersecurity prevents hijacking of steering or braking functions, protects sensitive driver data, and shields automakers from costly recalls and reputational harm.
- Significant investments in AI and Internet of Things (IoT) devices are crucial for fine-tuning self-driving algorithms, making them safer and more reliable.
Solid-state batteries increase energy density, shorten charging times, and give EVs longer ranges and greater convenience. For example, Toyota plans a commercial rollout by 2027 to bring solid-state battery EVs into mass production. Moreover, automakers reduce tailpipe emissions, cities improve air quality, and governments reduce fossil fuel dependence.
Efforts to adopt circular economy practices are intensifying, with manufacturers exploring innovative ways to extend the lifecycle of materials and reduce waste. Michelin’s development of tyres composed of 45% sustainable materials is a noteworthy example of how companies are rethinking material usage to minimise their environmental footprint. As we reflect on 2024, it’s clear that this year was a turning point for automotive manufacturing. The strides made in EV battery innovation, renewable energy adoption, and sustainability are paving the way for a more resilient and forward-thinking industry.
Nigerian startup Revive Earth develops the Revive Kit, to convert petrol vehicles into efficient EVs. It integrates electric drivetrains, transforming existing vehicles into sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to new EVs. The kit maintains original vehicle features to ensure a seamless transition and familiar driving experience. Henkel is using digital simulation tools to co-develop EV battery designs with automotive partners.
This increases the regulatory push toward connected and safety-enhanced vehicles. General Intelligence strengthens the evolution of software-defined vehicles by aligning human-inspired learning with safety. It also advances autonomous driving by enabling adaptability across vehicle types and conditions. In addition, the unit supports multiple communication protocols, including CAN and FlexRay. It also works with Ethernet and LIN, enabling integration across passenger cars, buses, trucks, and autonomous vehicles. AI and ML solutions process multimodal sensor data to power autonomy, predictive maintenance, and personalization.
The charging infrastructure is more vulnerable as a result of the quick uptake of EVs, which hackers may attack to obtain customer information or interfere with services. Advances in solid-state batteries promise higher energy density and faster charging times, while the expansion of ultra-fast chargers addresses key barriers to EV adoption. With the growing popularity of bidirectional charging (V2G) technology, EVs now contribute energy to the grid to improve stability. Volkswagen’s Traton Group, recognising the urgency of addressing these bottlenecks, is planning a third battery assembly plant in Europe.
These over-the-air updates are becoming essential for ensuring vehicle reliability, safety and security, and are opening new revenue streams for manufacturers. Moreover, its software platform manages real-time energy flows and integrates with solar systems to optimize renewable energy usage. It also enables customers to schedule and monitor charging activity for improved efficiency. In Europe, the new General Safety Regulation II (from July 2024) and related standards embed connectivity, advanced sensors, and cybersecurity requirements into safety compliance frameworks.
While fully autonomous vehicles (AVs) are not yet standard on the roads, significant advancements are being made in 2025 toward realizing the vision of driverless cars. Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and others are working tirelessly to refine the technology, which includes machine learning, computer vision, and lidar (light detection and ranging) systems. The US-based startup Apex AI enables automotive companies to implement complex AI solutions. Apex.OS runs on automotive electronic control units (ECUs) and offers robust, reliable, and secure APIs to develop autonomous mobility solutions. ApexAutonomy offers modules to build 3D perception, localization, and control to enable autonomous vehicles.
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. Artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and advanced semiconductors allow autonomous driving, predictive maintenance, and secure connectivity.