FRM 2025: Sector Report Automotive Industry KPMG in Germany
31.12.20252024 to 2025 in automotive production EV batteries, gigafactories, sustainability and more
31.12.2025Let’s have a closer look at the top automotive trends poised to dominate the landscape in 2025. Supplemented by the categorisation of our experts, a clear picture emerges of where the industry stands – and where it should develop in order to remain fit for the future. Automakers are also adopting hyper-personalized features to offer customized experiences through infotainment systems, user profiles, and real-time navigation updates. Many of these vehicles will feature over-the-air (OTA) upgrades and V2X communication. Xaba’s proprietary process and AI-driven large-scale 3D printer enable sustainable materials, such as fibers, fiber-reinforced polymers, and metals, to create functional car chassis.
In 2024, the automotive industry is increasingly integrating cutting-edge technologies into its operations. 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.
The strides made in EV battery innovation, renewable energy adoption, and sustainability are paving the way for a more resilient and forward-thinking industry. These articles highlight not just the progress made but also the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. 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. This article offers an inside look at the facility and Xiaomi’s ambitious plans in the automotive sector. Meanwhile, we are seeing the economic case for sustainable materials strengthen as manufacturers realise operational efficiency gains and reduce their long-term costs. Cross-industry collaboration is emerging as a key enabler, with automotive companies forming partnerships to develop and implement innovative material solutions.
General Intelligence builds Self-Driving Intelligence Software
This digital transformation enhances scalability, a key driver in the competitive automotive sector. Companies like Huawei are allocating significant resources to developing EVs with cutting-edge ADAS and autonomous features. These technologies aim to reduce accidents and provide a safer driving experience.
Top 10 Emerging Automobile Trends 2025 and Beyond
It provides grants, loans, and incentives to expand domestic fabs, semiconductor R&D, and the broader supply chain. It offers ready-to-use workflows across system, software, and project management processes. Its MotionSafe Privacy platform uses algorithms to monitor controller area network (CAN) traffic and detect anomalies. The platform also erases personally identifiable information (PII) from vehicle systems to maintain privacy. For example, over-the-air (OTA) updates depend on secure encryption and authentication to block malicious code injection. Likewise, fleet operators strengthen defenses for telematics, routing data, and driver information against manipulation.
- To meet these new requirements and realize this long-term vision, approaches are required to push against the status quo.
- Similarly, hardware security modules (HSMs) protect encryption keys and authenticate critical functions, with secure microcontrollers embedded into electronic control units (ECUs).
- Infineon, the largest manufacturer of auto chips, is increasing its investment in production by nearly $1 billion euros in 2022.
- Let’s have a closer look at the top automotive trends poised to dominate the landscape in 2025.
- However, it raises privacy and cybersecurity concerns that OEMs must address to maintain consumer trust.
- With customers becoming more demanding, rules and regulations are becoming stricter, and competition is stronger and faster.
- As urban areas grow more congested, the focus is shifting from traditional car ownership to mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) models.
- In addition, the IoT’s potential in the automotive industry presents a significant chance for manufacturers to revamp their marketing strategies.
Best of 2025 How Generative AI Is Transforming Industry
A 5G connection transmits data to a remote control station, which allows operators to monitor and intervene when needed. As the industry advances, 2025 will be a defining year in the automotive manufacturing sector. The convergence of AI-driven production systems, the scaling of EV capabilities, and the adoption of sustainable practices will reshape the competitive landscape. 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 push toward electrification is reshaping the automotive manufacturing landscape. By 2025, we will see increased investments in EV production as automakers cater to evolving consumer demands and regulatory pressures. However there are huge opportunities for the industry in the shift to software-defined vehicles and autonomous driving. These shifts are beneficial to ARM, STMicroelectronics, NXP Semiconductors and Infineon Technologies. While there are a lot of opportunities ahead for the industry, there will be plenty of challenges like cost pressures, growing competition, and globalization. The growing shared mobility trend also looms as more people are using shared transportation methods instead of owning cars.
Also, radar ensures long-range detection of moving objects in all weather conditions, which is critical for adaptive cruise control and highway safety. US-based startup NuNami designs automotive semiconductors that provide reliable connectivity and safety-critical interfaces. Its modules integrate high-voltage isolation, digital error correction, and built-in self-testing to ensure secure data transfer and fault-tolerant operation in automotive systems. They also incorporate floating-point units that improve computational accuracy and performance. The startup provides single-chip motor control solutions that integrate RISC-V processor cores with programmable MOSFET drivers, FD-CAN and LIN interfaces, and dedicated PWM modules. The systems optimize the performance of electric power steering, vehicle pumps, cooling fans, and HVAC modules.
However, sales of robotaxi vehicles will remain a minority, as safety concerns, legislative bottlenecks and the high cost of operations restrict growth. The current trends in the automotive industry seen in previous years will remain in 2025 and are likely to become automotive future trends. 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. Automakers need to redesign their vehicles or should look for other chip options available.
Lexus LS Coupe Concept Could Be the Future of… Something
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. Despite initial scepticism, the automotive industry is embracing enhanced connectivity by enabling real-time updates and post-production feature additions. Through our work with automotive innovators, we witness first-hand how rapidly this sector is evolving. From electrification and software integration to new mobility models, the industry faces unprecedented change.
Some countries (and California) have even committed to phasing out all new sales of combustion engine vehicles over the next few decades. Even with this rapid growth, EV’s share of cars on the road is expected to remain at just 8% by 2030. If you want to learn more about 10 of the most important auto industry trends for the next months, read on. The specialty equipment industry recognizes the potential in off-road products and accessories, mainly for pickups and SUVs such as the Jeep Wrangler. More than half of pickup owners purchase off-road parts and engage in outdoor activities with their vehicles. Overlanding, a newer trend, combines off-roading with remote travel and camping, with products like mounted tents falling under this category.
Integrated Powertrains will be Standard in EVs of the Future.
- Buyers check all the accessible platforms like your social media, website, videos, and more.
- The kit maintains original vehicle features to ensure a seamless transition and familiar driving experience.
- Global passenger EV sales grew 60% from 6.5 million units in 2021 to 10.5 million in 2022.
- IoT, AI, and digital twins are becoming essential tools for improving efficiency, reducing downtime, and optimizing production processes.
- Semiconductors enhance safety by enabling faster decisions and reducing accident risks.
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. Autonomous tech will likely be bundled with subscription services, reshaping mobility economics. From electric vehicles zipping past gas guzzlers to cars that update themselves like your smartphone, the industry is in the middle of a revolution.
🔌 Trend 1: The Electric Revolution Accelerates – EVs Taking Charge
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 regional drivers use VIN analysis tools million in 2022 to 40 million in 2023).
Vehicle cybersecurity drives one of the fastest-growing areas in the auto industry as connected vehicles multiply and cyber risks intensify. Analysts project the automotive cybersecurity market to increase from USD 5.24 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 18.88 billion by 2034, advancing at a CAGR of 15.3%. Geopolitical risks, regulatory frameworks, cost advantages, and compliance needs drive the auto industry toward supply chain resilience and nearshoring. Automakers reduce reliance on distant suppliers as trade tensions and conflicts expose the fragility of global networks. Also, advanced battery management systems improve safety, extend battery life, and optimize performance. Automakers integrate these systems to offer more reliable vehicles across global markets.
Luxury Car Brands See Growth
The US-based startup Udelv provides autonomous vehicles for last-mile deliveries. It combines advanced AI algorithms and hyper-speed teleoperations for human-assisted guidance in unique situations. The vans deliver groceries from nearby stores and send out a push notification when the order arrives.
Explore the Top 10 Automotive Industry Trends in 2024
Semiconductor experts say manufacturers won’t see a return on investment if they build new foundries to meet the auto industry’s demand. They’re so important that one analyst said, “semiconductors have moved ahead of oil as the world’s key commodity input for growth”. Explore competitors’ website traffic stats, discover growth points, and expand your market share. In addition, the initiative will leverage the data collected by adding Google’s AI capabilities to Ford vehicles.
Consumer trends in the automotive industry highlight that short videos are more effective in converting leads into customers. Dealerships can take advantage of different video formats, like how-to videos, car highlights, and customer testimonials. With more and more customers prioritizing environmental sustainability, the focus should be on promoting environmentally conscious manufacturing processes along with eco-friendly cars like electric vehicles. 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.
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. Moreover, automakers offer features on demand as they are turning cars into service platforms.
- Likewise, projects USD billion in annual software and services revenue by 2030 from connected vehicles.
- While most of these concerns can be overcome, it will take some time, and this time will be the most challenging for the industry.
- These shifts are beneficial to ARM, STMicroelectronics, NXP Semiconductors and Infineon Technologies.
- These vehicles reduce emissions and feature innovative designs for modern commuters.
- We don’t just regurgitate press releases—we road-trip, wrench, code, and occasionally sleep in dealership parking lots to bring you unfiltered truth.
- According to a study completed by INRIX Transportation, Honolulu, New Orleans, and Nashville are the three US cities that stand to gain the most from micromobility vehicles.
- Vietnamese startup Phenikaa-X creates autonomous electric vehicles with AI and multi-sensor technology for safe transportation.
Overview – Automotive Industry
In addition, TuSimple has partnered with Navistar and UPS to test its software under supervised driving conditions. 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. Lithium-ion battery prices have fallen by 89% over the last decade, reaching a price of $137/kWh in 2020.
The automotive parts market continues to grow
Because of this growth, it’s estimated that there are more than 40 million electric cars on the road. Espite growing inventory levels, new vehicle prices continue to rise, reaching a record average transaction price of $49,507 in December 2022. The best-selling vehicle in the US, the Ford F-Series pickup, has an average price of $66,451, placing it in the luxury category. As climate change concerns intensify, automakers are increasingly pressured to reduce emissions, lower their environmental footprint, and embrace green technologies. “Advanced sensors will make a significant impact on ADAS solutions by providing more accurate data and improving safety maneuvers, from lane-keep-assist to auto parking and braking,” added Lyons. The automotive industry was perhaps the saving grace of the European semiconductor industry in 2023, but reality has hit hard in 2024.
❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Automotive Trends Answered
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.
Self-driving vehicles rely on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to process real-time data from cameras, sensors, and radars. The goal is to enable cars to make decisions and navigate without human intervention. In 2025, automakers will continue improving AI systems’ reliability, reducing the likelihood of accidents, and enabling safer autonomous driving experiences.
🔮 Preparing for Tomorrow: Strategies for Industry Players and Consumers
Keyvault raised USD 1 million in January 2025 to introduce smartphone-enabled car keys in the US, following the trend of incorporating smart device features into automobiles. Mercedes-Benz is also using generative AI to include conversational assistants for improving user experiences and redefining in-car interactions. The number of connected cars worldwide will likely reach 400 million by 2025 up from 237 million in 2021.
consumer trends
The Starkenn Brake Safe, a collision mitigation system features automatic emergency braking in critical scenarios. AI-powered semiconductors drive transformation in autonomous driving systems by enabling real-time communication with road infrastructure and enhancing safety features such as emergency braking systems. Tesla’s relentless drive to expand its global gigafactory network has been a defining feature of 2024.
Autonomous Driving: Waymo Offers 250K Paid Rides Weekly Across US Cities
However, it’s estimated that there will be 33 million autonomous vehicles on the road by 2040. Virtual car shopping is the new norm and will remain a significant car industry trend for years. The booming e-commerce industry is essential to the global online car buying demand. This is further fueled by increasing awareness of convenience and supported by rising digital literacy, internet accessibility, urbanization, and disposable income levels. 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.
Despite this, 2025 is guaranteed to be pivotal, with potential breakthroughs in autonomous driving technology along with a stronger push toward hybridization and sustainability. Simultaneously, many automakers embrace vertical integration strategies, taking control of the software stack from chip development to application integration. This approach equips them to differentiate their offerings, with software being the key to creating compelling customer experiences.
- The law emphasises a cleaner and more efficient use of fossil fuels, placing a higher emphasis on sustainability and developing renewable energy infrastructures.
- For instance, Texas Instruments‘ AWR2544 radar achieves sensing beyond 200 meters.
- Alongside established technologies like AI and big data analytics, the industry is also embracing the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain for diverse applications.
- The automobile seminar is utilized by a lot of experts working in the automotive industry, researchers, and people with an affinity for the carmaker as a forum for sharing knowledge and collaboration.
- The Volta Zero addresses sustainability by enabling zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner city environments.
- And with about two-thirds of people saying they would rather drive than ride in an autonomous car, much of the near-term focus is on trucking.
- Companies focus on increasing energy density to improve range and reduce charging times.
The Future of Automobiles
The rise of such technologies reflects consumer demand for vehicles that are not just transportation tools but extensions of their digital ecosystems. Connected cars enable real-time navigation updates, remote diagnostics, and seamless smartphone integration. They also support smart city initiatives by offering data for traffic management and logistics automation. Established in 2007, SG Analytics is a Great Place to Work® (GPTW) certified company with a team of over 1200 employees and a presence across the U.S.A., the UK, Switzerland, Poland, and India.
THINKey operates through a secure architecture using enclaves in the phone, vehicle, and cloud, adhering to the car connectivity consortium’s digital key standard. Additionally, the startup offers infotainment solutions with plug-and-play SDKs and certification-ready apps for phone mirroring and multimedia features. This facilitates the integration of Apple CarPlay, Google Android Auto, and media streaming into in-vehicle infotainment systems.
While China’s dominance in EV and automotive production at large is not anything new, the movements being made in emerging economies outside of China are. The automotive industry is many things, but it is never idle; it thrives on the pulse of innovation, resilience in hard times, and mobility transformation. Every year brings with it new shifts in technology, consumer behaviour, and market dynamics, all of which shape and build automotive as a cornerstone industry of the world. The AI systems also learn about the driver’s preferences in music and temperature, making the driving experiences as enjoyable as possible.
