Automotive Topics and Trends

Key automotive industry trends include a significant rise in electric vehicle production, a growing market for pre-owned vehicles, and an uptick in digital car sales. Alongside established technologies like AI and big data analytics, the industry is also embracing the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain for diverse applications. This technological evolution is reshaping the automotive landscape, driving innovation and efficiency.

Shift Toward Mobility Services

Approximately 70 percent of industrial companies report faster chip supply, possibly due to weakened consumer spending and demand. These constraints are expected to persist into 2025, as semiconductor production has exceeded full production-rate utilization since 2019, with recent rates surpassing 95%. 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.

NuNami designs Vehicular Interface Systems

Its technology transports ultra-high-bandwidth video and data from sensors to processors with ultra-low latency. For this, it uses advanced system-on-chips (SoCs) that integrate mixed-signal analog and digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms. This includes driver monitoring systems, adaptive cruise control, and collision avoidance systems.

Its product, THINKey, transforms smartphones into digital keys that allow users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles. The integration of 5G networks is accelerating advancements in vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, supporting autonomous driving functionalities. The startup offers tools for real-time calibration health checks for deployed fleets to reduce time-to-market and operational risks. Further, its AI-enabled depth sensor, HiFi, enhances 3D sensing with 1.6-megapixel supersampled depth, 8 TOPS of AI compute, a 136° ultra-wide field of view, and connectivity options like PoE and USB-C. This platform uses secured safety assurance and risk-mitigation principles to detect and address failures in assisted and self-driving systems. Qumasoft’s solution enables companies to develop, produce, and operate cybersecure vehicles and components efficiently.

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The data of all road users is streamed and processed in real-time to empower smart mobility. The solution also serves as the base for additional services such as micropayments and micro-mobility. Nearshoring is becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly in North America, where manufacturers are shifting operations closer to key markets to mitigate supply chain risks and reduce logistical costs.

Looking ahead, there is no doubt that the automotive industry is on the brink of a paradigm shift driven by unprecedented technological advancements and a commitment to sustainability. While most of these concerns can be overcome, it will take some time, and this time will be the most challenging for the industry. Canadian startup KonnectShift provides IoT solutions to optimize fleet and asset management. The startup develops Konnect – GS01, an automatic electronic logging device (ELD) to continuously track vehicular health. Israeli startup DAV offers a decentralized autonomous vehicles platform based on blockchain technology.

As 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) continue their growth, vehicles are becoming more and more connected. And TuSimple is hoping to begin selling completely autonomous Level 4 trucks to fleet operators in 2024. A major barrier to this relentless growth, however, is consumer and regulatory concerns. In addition, more than half of all vehicles are expected to fall into the Level 1-5 range in 2024.

Other Technology Trends in Automotive Industry

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. Battery technology has taken centre stage in the EV revolution, and this article provides a deep dive into the leading chemistries and formats that defined 2024. From LFP to cutting-edge solid-state batteries, it examines the trade-offs between cost, performance, and sustainability while uncovering key regional trends.

The evolution of self-driving and connected cars is simplifying driver-vehicle interaction. Human-machine interfaces (HMIs), including voice-based and haptic feedback systems, are expanding control over various car functions. Moreover, V2X communication systems allow vehicles to interact with each other and infrastructure, improving traffic flow and reducing accidents. These innovations collectively propel the industry towards safer, more efficient transportation. Consequently, the global autonomous vehicle market size is projected to reach USD 448.6 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 22.2%. For this in-depth research on the Top Automotive Industry Trends and startups, we analyzed a sample of 4859 innovative automotive startups & scaleups worldwide.

  • Using data from IoT technology, drivers receive real-time route suggestions to avoid traffic jams and ease congestion, ensuring faster, stress-free travel.
  • They also emphasize that regulatory support and infrastructure readiness are essential for large-scale deployment.
  • Its product, THINKey, transforms smartphones into digital keys that allow users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles.
  • 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.
  • Further, Chipv creates power control chips equipped with triple RISC-V cores, extensive on-chip memory, and robust hardware security modules.
  • As for those who already use micromobility vehicles, 32% say they often or very often use it instead of a private car.
  • Indian startup ThinkSeed develops middleware solutions that enhance smartphone connectivity to vehicles for secure access and infotainment.
  • Adding to the challenge, measures such as stricter Euro 7 tailpipe standards and updated rules on battery recycling demand deeper innovation within supply chains and operations.

The automotive industry is being altered by the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is powering a new wave of smarter and more personalized innovations. From enhancing in-vehicle safety solutions to enabling semi-autonomous driving features, AI is redefining innovations in vehicle functionality and unprecedentedly shaping the driving experience. Consumer trends in the automotive industry highlight that short videos are more effective in converting leads into customers.

No Surprise: Q4 Auto Sales Fell, EVs Fell Further

Automotive Topics and Trends

The recently proposed 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, while temporarily delayed, may also have a drastic impact on the global automotive supply chain. 2025 is shaping up to be an interesting year for automotive with regards to global shifts in the market with a mixed bag of potential harmony and disruption. This agreement is expected to drastically enhance automotive trade between these regions.

  • Its AI-driven control systems, xCognition and xTrude, enhance industrial robotics and additive manufacturing by automating programming and improving precision.
  • When demand for cars plummeted in the early days of the pandemic, auto manufacturers stopped ordering them and chip producers focused their attention elsewhere.
  • Additionally, CARNIQ Technologies supports the automotive sector with threat analysis, cybersecurity management, and secure system development.
  • Its technology transports ultra-high-bandwidth video and data from sensors to processors with ultra-low latency.

Tree Map reveals the Impact of the Top 10 Automotive Industry Trends

  • Even six months into 2022, vehicle manufacturers haven’t been able to correct the issue of low inventory.
  • Continuous change detection triggers automatic cloud updates to ensure up-to-date navigation information.
  • The automotive industry is gearing up for a transformation as fast and furious as the iconic franchise suggests.
  • Moi uses continuous fiber manufacturing (CFM) technology, robotic intelligence, and digital fabrication to deposit fibers.

It incorporates various AI-powered technologies like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance, allowing vehicles to navigate complex road conditions autonomously. These systems can detect objects, evaluate road environments, and make real-time decisions to further enhance safety and comfort. Autonomous driving will continue progressing from Level 2+ driver-assist to Level 3 conditional autonomy in geo-fenced areas. Full Level 4 and 5 autonomy remain years away due to regulatory, ethical, and technical challenges. Expect more robotaxi pilots, fleet autonomy, and advanced safety features integrated into mainstream cars. The focus will also be on cybersecurity and fail-safe systems to build consumer trust.

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  • Xiaomi’s foray into the electric vehicle market is exemplified by its state-of-the-art factory, capable of producing an electric car every 76 seconds.
  • A quick online search reveals that by 2040, 33 million autonomous cars are expected to be on the road.
  • Chinese startup Chipv offers automotive semiconductors that combine computing capabilities with motor control and power management.
  • 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.
  • In 2026, the auto industry accelerates its transition from combustion-based production to electrified, software-driven, and sustainable mobility.
  • They provide V2X applications, services, and communication stacks specifically designed for on-board units (OBUs) and road-side units (RSUs).
  • South African startup Motomatix applies AI and custom software solutions to strengthen supply chain resilience in the automotive repair sector.
  • Displays will also be a key driver of automotive technologies in 2025, from microLEDs to the production of holographic windscreens and smart glass.

The USMCA requires 75% of motor industry components to be produced in North America. And the US Inflation Reduction Act ties USD 7500 EV subsidies to regional sourcing. Cost efficiency strengthens the case, with Mexico offering a 35% landed-cost edge over China in 2022. And it is projected to widen to 45% by 2030 due to lower labor and freight costs. Also, advanced composites and recycled inputs reduce reliance on virgin resources.

Automotive Industry Trends 2025: Shifting Gears Toward Innovation

The truck’s design removes the internal combustion engine, advancing commercial vehicle safety standards, and protecting pedestrians and other road users. Volta Trucks also offers leasing or purchasing options, and integrates services like maintenance, charging infrastructure, and training through its truck-as-a-service model. This simplifies the transition to electric vehicles for fleets, reducing environmental impact and promoting safer urban transport. US-based startup FlxTran develops a new transportation system using self-driving vehicles on abandoned railroad tracks to provide fast regional transport to connect smaller communities.

Motoreto simplifies Automobile Distribution for Used Vehicles

Canadian startup Aadhya Navik designs software solutions that improve safety, comfort, and traffic efficiency in autonomous driving. Its vehicle control system processes passenger comfort thresholds related to acceleration, deceleration, and jerk rate. It then adjusts driving decisions to minimize motion sickness and maintain smooth operation.

Automotive Topics and Trends

Megacasting, which involves producing large aluminium castings to replace multiple smaller components in vehicle structures, is gaining momentum in the automotive industry. As 2024 comes to a close, the automotive manufacturing industry continues to accelerate its transformation. From groundbreaking advancements in EV battery technologies to bold steps toward sustainable production, this year has marked a pivotal shift in how vehicles are designed, built, and powered. Autonomous driving is a key innovation driver but remains in a development and regulatory phase. It enhances safety via driver-assist features and promises to revolutionize mobility with robotaxis and freight automation. Its progress influences OEM investments, partnerships with tech firms, and consumer expectations.

This reduces development costs and time while enhancing quality and analytical capabilities. With zero emissions, low noise, and a range of up to 400 km, FALAK offers a sustainable urban mobility solution. The startup emphasizes comfort with electric doors, extended safety features, and panoramic views from all seats. The UK’s automotive sector offers a compelling illustration of the progress being made. In the first half of 2023, electrified vehicle production surged by 70%, highlighting the rapid pace of investment in EV production capabilities, and continues to grow.

  • This data-driven research provides innovation intelligence that helps you improve strategic decision-making by giving you an overview of emerging technologies in the automotive industry.
  • Driverless cars have sometimes struggled with unexpected incidents on the road and in poor weather conditions.
  • Vehicle cybersecurity drives one of the fastest-growing areas in the auto industry as connected vehicles multiply and cyber risks intensify.
  • Software-defined vehicles (SDVs), where software manages essential functions like steering, braking, and infotainment, will see rapid growth over the next few years.
  • These are the old and traditional methods that buyers use to contact dealers or check your products or information about the brand on search engines.
  • Front-facing LiDAR scans the road to detect objects, track pedestrians, and respond to traffic to enhance safety.
  • They provide various features such as remote diagnostics, vehicle health reports, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspots, turn-by-turn directions, and warnings of car health issues.

IoT creates more opportunities for manufacturers to market to consumers even after they’ve made a purchase. 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. Fuel-cell electric vehicles will emerge worldwide in 2025 due to their faster recharge, extended range, and zero emissions. Major car, truck, and SUV manufacturers are investing in fuel-cell electric vehicle development, with the support of countries like China, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and the United States. The EU’s Green Deal and its accompanying “Fit for 55” initiative aim to cut carbon emissions drastically by 2030, piling new expectations on manufacturers to reduce their environmental impact. Adding to the challenge, measures such as stricter Euro 7 tailpipe standards and updated rules on battery recycling demand deeper innovation within supply chains and operations.

WF Telematics improves Fleet and Asset Management

The startup enables automakers to reduce waste, optimize design processes, and advance sustainable manufacturing strategies. The automotive industry is one of the most severely affected by supply chain disruptions. Currently, its greatest challenge is uncertainty and instability, which are expected to persist this year.

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Its RC ONE driverless vehicle combines proprietary software and hardware with automotive-grade components to achieve low-speed autonomous operation. US-based startup TeraDAR designs its 4D imaging sensor that enhances sensor fusion by offering the Terahertz wavelength for vehicle perception. Connectivity also adds momentum, with 5G and V2X semiconductors enabling real-time data exchange and secure over-the-air updates. Also, regulatory frameworks such as ISO and Europe’s mandate for emergency braking systems encourage mission-critical chip integration across new vehicles. ADAS adoption enables lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking to rely on AI-powered processors and sensor fusion chips. Additionally, CARNIQ Technologies supports the automotive sector with threat analysis, cybersecurity management, and secure system development.

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. This move highlights the industry’s broader trend of building resilient supply chains to safeguard against geopolitical and economic uncertainties. Global supply chain disruptions over recent years have prompted manufacturers to rethink strategies.

Explore the most important trade fairs and conferences to boost your business success. Contact Avenga read the complete family road trips guide today to learn more about what industry experts have to say about these trends. For instance, China has introduced policies encouraging automakers to procure up to 25% of their chips domestically by 2025, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. There will be continued demand for legacy process technology, with the construction and facilitation of the ESMC fab in Dresden progressing through 2025. Whether this central compute is a monolithic chip such as Nvidia Thor, which will be detailed in 2025, it will also be constructed from chiplets.

🚗 Top 7 Automotive Industry Trends Shaping 2026

Automotive semiconductors and sensor fusion enhance safety, efficiency, and intelligence. This approach ensures our reports provide reliable, actionable insights into the automobile innovation ecosystem while highlighting startups driving technological advancements in the industry. This process enables us to identify the most impactful and innovative trends in the automobile industry. Along with battery-powered electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) are another alternative to internal combustion engines. Fewer new vehicle purchases mean consumers hold onto their vehicles longer, reducing the available used inventory and increasing prices.