FRM 2025: Sector Report Automotive Industry KPMG in Germany

Automotive Topics and Trends

However, the primary function of these cars is not just to entertain they can connect to other vehicles (V2V), pedestrians (V2P), infrastructure (V2I), and cloud (V2C). Lastly, there’s even a term “vehicle-to-everything” (V2X), which includes all types of vehicle communication. This infrastructure ensures the safety of drivers and passengers and can even send emergency SOS messages to respective services in case of an accident, sharing all the critical information. Connectivity also enables remote diagnostics, alerts the driver about necessary maintenance, and promotes both safety and cost-efficiency. The foundation of autonomous vehicle architecture lies in a set of sensors, including LiDAR, radar, and ultrasonic systems, providing cars with a 360-degree panoramic view.

The platform LM Mission ControlTM offers free-floating or station-based car sharing, advanced shuttle services, shared dockless scooters, keyless rental programs, and peer-to-peer shared mobility. Further, their drivers use out-of-the-box or white-labeled apps to manage reservations or remotely access vehicles. 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.

Jaguar Land Rover’s REALCAR project established a closed-loop recycling system that reclaims over 50K tonnes of aluminum scrap. The project avoids more than 500K tonnes of CO2 emissions by reducing the need for primary aluminum. Another instance is that of Michelin, which made a road-approved car tire with 45% sustainable materials.

Important Auto Industry Trends (2025-

Artificial Intelligence and Smart Factory technologies are no longer aspirational but integral to modern automotive manufacturing. Stellantis, for instance, has demonstrated how AI can transform production efficiency. By incorporating AI tools, the company has reduced production costs while accelerating vehicle launch timelines. This approach enhances flexibility across its global operations, ensuring a rapid response to shifting market demands.

Brands need to provide specific offers by analyzing their customer’s needs, preferences, and behavior. OEMs like Toyota, Hyundai-Kia, Renault-Nissan Mitsubishi, and Stellantis already have a large portfolio of hybrid variants, including mild and full hybrids. At the same time, BYD, Stellantis, and Volkswagen are focused on designing a stronger PHEV portfolio. Hyundai plans to ramp up its hybrid offerings under its ‘Hyundai Way’ strategy from seven to 14 models by 2030.

More automakers collaborating with tech companies

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. This reduces development costs and time while enhancing quality and analytical capabilities. Further, the Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to witness rapid growth, with a projected CAGR of 18.3%, driven by rising vehicle sales and evolving safety regulations. These vehicles reduce emissions and feature innovative designs for modern commuters.

  • These over-the-air updates are becoming essential for ensuring vehicle reliability, safety and security, and are opening new revenue streams for manufacturers.
  • 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 US-based startup Apex AI enables automotive companies to implement complex AI solutions.
  • It does so to preserve their heritage design and deliver zero-emission performance.
  • It’s clear that a select subset of today’s consumers are willing to pay for high-end automobiles.
  • This would mark a critical shift toward an era of personalized vehicle recommendations and optimized repair services.
  • Connectivity is one of the key trends in automotive industry, and 5G is what takes it to a more advanced level.

Methodology: How We Created the Automobile Trend Report

Automotive Topics and Trends

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.

With the growing popularity of bidirectional charging (V2G) technology, EVs now contribute energy to the grid to improve stability. By focusing on digital transformation, the company aims to integrate predictive analytics and process automation, creating production systems that are adaptable and resilient. These examples point to AI enabling real-time decision-making and predictive maintenance, while improving quality control and minimising downtime, marking the technology ‘a no-brainer’ for production in 2025. 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.

Motoreto simplifies Automobile Distribution for Used Vehicles

Sustainability is a major driver reshaping vehicle design, manufacturing, and lifecycle management. Governments worldwide are imposing stricter emissions standards and incentivizing zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). This pushes automakers to invest heavily in electric drivetrains, recycled materials, and circular economy practices.

Automotive Topics and Trends

In 2022, the automotive industry’s automotive digital marketing spending increased to $17 billion and is predicted to keep growing in 2025. Experts anticipate a rise in digital advertising spending, driven by the growing mobile and social media usage rates. Increased government focus on charging networks will be needed to support the expanding EV fleet. The autonomous vehicle sector will advance as UN regulators lift their speed limit.

CARNIQ Technologies specializes in Car Security & Compliance

The Volta Zero addresses sustainability by enabling zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner city environments. It incorporates an intuitive infotainment system for efficient power management while minimizing driver distractions. The control system includes safeguards like automatic overheating prevention, battery depletion protection, and real-time torque and speed calibration for optimal performance on challenging terrains. The Asia-Pacific region currently controls the majority of the market due to the strong uptake of electric cars (EVs) in countries like China, India, and Japan. The region’s substantial market share results from government incentives and the growth of the automobile industry.

Xaba builds Industrial AI-driven Control Systems

  • Moreover, redundancy across sensor types improves resilience in poor weather or low visibility.
  • 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.
  • The platform allows autonomous vehicles to discover AVs, service providers, or clients around them.
  • Sustainable manufacturing and EV expansion deliver cost savings, regulatory compliance, and reduced emissions, positioning automakers as leaders in green mobility.
  • In addition, the solution works with any EV charger and enables new features to be shipped throughout the network.
  • They are discussing the prospect of AI for driving systems, the implications of some regulatory changes for automotive innovation, and the potentials of renewable sources for energy for the automobiles.
  • They are used by the automotive industry for car manufacturing, employee training as well as vehicle sales and marketing.

It uses AI-powered damage recognition, estimation, and work distribution to streamline repair processes. Also, its platform manages claims and mechanical breakdowns across vehicle models from manufacturers. Digital replicas and simulations allow manufacturers to test efficiency improvements before implementation. For example, BMW’s San Luis Potosí facility applies digital replicas to reconfigure layouts and minimize waste.

Procon Analytics builds Automotive Finance

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. The technology has already processed over a billion customer requests and is set to grow in 2025 with predictive intelligence and maintenance technology. North American and European automakers offer consumers the option to buy vehicles online without visiting dealerships. 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.

Shift to an “Agency model”

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. A major barrier to this relentless growth, however, is consumer and regulatory concerns. Large automakers like Tesla, Alphabet, Ford, GM, and Volvo have all entered the autonomous vehicle space.

Electrification to grow despite various hurdles

We evaluate our own startup data and complement these insights with external research, including industry reports, news articles, and market analyses. This process enables us to identify the most impactful and innovative trends in the automotive industry. Volvo Cars has announced plans to adopt large aluminium castings for its next-generation electric vehicles, aiming to simplify production and enhance sustainability. Meanwhile, Toyota is reported to be cautiously evaluating the technology, balancing its benefits against potential risks.

Discover all Automotive Technologies & Startups

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.

Challenges Facing EV Manufacturers

  • This both lowers costs and improves vehicle performance, addressing both market demands and sustainability goals.
  • A Deloitte UK study found that 52% of all consumers show no interest in car subscription models; interest is higher among younger people (age 18-34).
  • 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.
  • Battery manufacturers have significantly reduced their production since early December due to the unpromising demand in the upcoming months.
  • With consumers increasingly prioritizing environmental performance when purchasing vehicles, automakers must focus on reducing emissions and developing more sustainable transportation options.
  • Key players like Bosch, Continental AG, and ZF Friedrichshafen AG are investing in technological advancements.
  • The push toward electrification is reshaping the automotive manufacturing landscape.

The move highlights the scale of investment required to meet zero-emission vehicle targets and align with regulatory pressures for decarbonisation. The road to 2025 is set to bring even more dynamic changes, with global collaborations, technological breakthroughs, and bold strategies defining the future of manufacturing. This article profiles the top five Chinese automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) leading the industry in sales volume and market capitalization. The Auto Industry Trends & Startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of trends that we identified during our data-driven innovation & startup scouting process.

Immersive technologies: VR & AR

The global automotive blockchain market is experiencing significant growth — it is projected to reach USD 6.11 billion by 2032. Singapore-based startup Beam focuses on e-scooters to promote shared mobility in the Asia-Pacific region. Their scooters use an aviation-grade aluminum frame and are customized for sharing, safety, reliability, and durability. Users discover the nearest Beam scooter on the app and park it in visible public spots after the ride. Further, the micro-mobility platform offers a sustainable alternative to short-distance rides and helps regulate traffic flow in cities.

MotionSafe enables AI-powered Automotive Cybersecurity

Younger buyers often prefer subscription models or shared mobility over ownership. The rise of online car buying and digital retail experiences is forcing dealerships and OEMs to innovate. Demand for customizable, software-updatable vehicles is growing, as is interest in electric and hybrid powertrains. Automakers must balance traditional desires for performance and style with new expectations for tech integration and environmental responsibility. The present-day automotive industry is affected by innovative ideas and is ready to transform and evolve rapidly.

European manufacturers are leading the charge with plans for affordable EV models, such as Citroën and Renault. These budget-friendly models aim to stimulate adoption following a dip in EV sales. Consumers research their preferred car on their mobile phones, looking for the best options, offers, and dealerships. Therefore, websites need to be easily readable and accessible across mobile devices, with clear calls to action.

  • Digital replicas and simulations allow manufacturers to test efficiency improvements before implementation.
  • These material innovations are also crucial to meeting evolving regulations, particularly the EU’s stringent emission standards.
  • For example, Qualcomm released reports and white papers highlighting C-V2X as a critical capability for intelligent transportation systems.
  • 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.
  • “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.
  • Manufacturers are investing in innovative mobility technologies, such as personal voice assistance, autonomous driving, and AI and ML, creating a positive market outlook.

Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) are expected to grow, although governments may restructure their incentive programs. The automotive industry is transforming, fueled by evolving consumer demands, rapid technological advancements, and the urgency of addressing climate change. In 2025, the future of mobility will take a new shape in ways that promise smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable vehicles. Central to this evolution is the growing demand for electric vehicles and software-defined vehicles. British startup Cube Intelligence develops a blockchain-based security platform for autonomous vehicles. The startup’s technology utilizes hash codes to block malicious attacks or hacking attempts on autonomous cars and connected cars.

Tangram Vision offers a Perception Platform

While regulatory hurdles remain, 2025 will likely see significant progress in integrating these services into urban infrastructure, offering consumers affordable, sustainable alternatives to owning a car. On top of all the 2025 automotive trends there will be the impact of tariffs set by the US and Europe. With the new administration of Donald Trump in January, the trade war with China will have a major impact on the automotive industry in 2025.

The platform features customizable work product templates, detailed instructions, and comprehensive checklists for self-assessment. It also provides streamlined audit management, structured frameworks for continuous improvement, and intuitive escalation processes. Companies like BYD are collaborating with TSMC and MediaTek to develop advanced chips for vehicle controllers and smart cockpits. Statevolt’s decision to build its gigafactory in the UAE rather than Europe has been a talking point this year. This article explores the strategic reasons behind the move, including the UAE’s favourable energy policies, market accessibility, and logistical advantages.

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. Connected cars are vehicles that use wireless means to connect to the Internet of Things. They offer a safe, comfortable, and convenient multimedia experience with on-demand features that allow users to browse the web while in their vehicle.

2025 is predicted to be a big year for self-driving taxi services, as companies look to re-imagine social proof with clean VIN reports 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. Italian startup Moi combines thermosetting composite materials and 3D printing to manufacture high-performance parts for the automotive industry.