Automotive trends in 2025 impacting middle-market organisations RSM Global

Automotive Topics and Trends

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. The automotive regenerative braking market is expected to reach USD 13.83 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 15.8%. Usage-based insurance (UBI) models use driving behavior data to provide customized premiums and are gaining popularity. From 2024 to 2029, the insurance telematics industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 17.6%.

Meanwhile, Carlos Tarves, CEO of automaker Stellantis, has said the chip shortages will continue to plague his industry next year. 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.

Vehicle Purchases Shift Online

Automotive Topics and Trends

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.

a. Urban Mobility and Shared Vehicles

AI and machine learning (ML) support cyber defenses by enabling real-time anomaly detection and predictive monitoring. For instance, AI-driven intrusion detection systems adapt to new attack patterns and block breaches before they spread. Further, through its smart management app, it enables users to schedule charging, monitor consumption, and manage fleets from one platform. Moreover, the startup installs Tesla motors and Fellten battery systems, which provide up to 295 horsepower, enable flexible range options, and ensure authenticity through fully reversible conversions. Also, adoption rises quickly, with China reaching 50% EV penetration in 2024, and in India, over 18.8 lakh EVs are supported under FAME schemes till June 2025 by the government. Declining battery costs move EVs closer to price parity with combustion vehicles.

AI to Impact All of the Automotive Trends

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. Recent auto trends show that customers prefer to experience a car or dealership before purchasing.

Luxury Car Brands See Growth

The study offers data-based insights and recommendations for action for decision-makers in the automotive sector. Gain in-depth insights into the key developments that characterise the automotive industry. UK-based startup Distributed Additive Manufacturing (DAM) offers 3D printing services including design, building, and finishing of parts. It offers more sustainable 3D printing by developing its own large-scale printing hardware and using fully recycled composite materials.

  • The next wave of auto trends is shaped by enabling technologies that extend beyond electrification and connectivity.
  • The main advantage of this digital technology is that it allows auto manufacturers to create complex and at the same time lightweight vehicle parts.
  • The concept of Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is changing how people think about transportation.
  • Additive manufacturing shortens prototyping cycles, and IoT-driven analytics improve predictive maintenance.
  • In addition, the startup strengthens automotive cybersecurity with features such as real-time intrusion detection and automated containment protocols.
  • UK-based startup Distributed Additive Manufacturing (DAM) offers 3D printing services including design, building, and finishing of parts.
  • Autonomous driving technology is one of the automotive industry’s most exciting and potentially disruptive developments.

These advanced technologies are widely used across a great number of industries and the automotive domain is no exception. They are used by the automotive industry for car manufacturing, employee training as well as vehicle sales and marketing. 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. As the technology evolves and becomes more affordable for the industry, it opens more and more opportunities every year.

V2ROADS simplifies Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Connectivity

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.

NoTraffic facilitates Digital Road Infrastructure Management

For the eighth time, we asked managers and decision-makers in the automotive industry which trends and developments they are currently focusing on. The automotive industry report of the Future Readiness Monitor 2025 provides differentiated insights into strategies, challenges and fields of action in the industry. The trends in automobile industry and startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of automotive innovations that we identified during our in-depth research. Identifying new opportunities and emerging technologies to implement into your business early on goes a long way in gaining a competitive advantage. Get in touch to easily and exhaustively scout relevant technologies & startups that matter to you. Operating from Germany and the US, EcoG is a startup offering an IoT-based operating system and platform for EV charging.

Renault Twingo E-Tech Is Cute, Clever, and Electric

With increasing political uncertainty and a cooling economy, responding to the top three trends will be key to traversing a difficult year ahead. Circular economy initiatives are also gaining momentum, exemplified by Jaguar Land Rover’s closed-loop recycling for seat foam and Michelin’s production of tires using 45% sustainable materials. The startup’s Ethernet products support precise timing synchronization with the 802.1AS Precision Time Protocol (gPTP) to ensure reliable communication for time-sensitive applications. In the US, the AV market is expected to expand, rising from USD 22.6 billion in 2024 to USD 222.8 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 28.92% starting in 2025. Regulatory frameworks like UNECE WP.29, effective from last year, mandate stringent cybersecurity measures to drive compliance-related investments. Moreover, Avvenire has a strategic agreement with Daymak International Inc., Canada’s leading LEV distributor.

Rise in autonomous self-driving cars

A simple yet impactful example would be the replacement of vehicle manuals with voice-activated AI assistants. The AI system answers the driver’s query by cross-referencing data from the car’s diagnostics. It instantly generates a detailed explanation of the issue along with potential solutions. These tools equip dealerships to handle inquiries efficiently, thus freeing time for other important tasks. They further assist with management, maintenance, and repair appointments, as well as streamlining operations. Voice search assistants help optimize interfaces for advertisements and voice search queries.

Motoreto strengthens supply chain resilience in the auto industry and drives nearshoring by aligning distribution, procurement, and sales with regional market needs. The startup enables dealerships, fleet managers, and manufacturers to manage inventory strategically. It also supports this process by integrating buybacks, residual value calculations, and automated stock analysis. The automotive industry is one of the most severely affected by supply chain disruptions.

🛣️ Trend 3: The Autonomous Horizon – Self-Driving Cars on the Near Road

For example, Valeo, with its SCALA LiDAR, which scans the surroundings 25 times per second at ranges beyond 200 meters. Further, high-speed automotive Ethernet, 5G networks, and V2X communication extend a car’s perception beyond its line of sight. Gallium nitride (GaN) chips enable high-frequency switching, compact designs, and fast charging.

  • According to Statista’s report, global sales of electric vehicles are expected to reach an astounding US$786.2 billion by the end of 2024.
  • Alongside established technologies like AI and big data analytics, the industry is also embracing the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain for diverse applications.
  • Sensor fusion that combines information from various sources improves safety and autonomy by enabling accurate decision-making.
  • 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.
  • LiDAR sensors enable precise 3D mapping, crucial for vehicle navigation and obstacle detection.
  • For instance, Texas Instruments‘ AWR2544 radar achieves sensing beyond 200 meters.
  • 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.

Top 10 Emerging Automotive Industry Trends 2025 and Beyond

  • In addition, the IoT’s potential in the automotive industry presents a significant chance for manufacturers to revamp their marketing strategies.
  • To meet these new requirements and realize this long-term vision, approaches are required to push against the status quo.
  • Infineon, the largest manufacturer of auto chips, is increasing its investment in production by nearly $1 billion euros in 2022.
  • As urban areas grow more congested, the focus is shifting from traditional car ownership to mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) models.
  • With customers becoming more demanding, rules and regulations are becoming stricter, and competition is stronger and faster.
  • Let’s have a closer look at the top automotive trends poised to dominate the landscape in 2025.
  • Until these efforts bear fruit, the industry will need to focus on mitigating risks and prioritising demand effectively.

The integrated powertrain segment is likely to hold ~60-65% of the total e-powertrain market in 2025. Connected cars create new revenue streams focus2move article on VIN importance via subscription services, data monetization, and personalized experiences. However, it raises privacy and cybersecurity concerns that OEMs must address to maintain consumer trust. The connected car market is a battleground for tech giants and traditional automakers alike. Sustainability is a major driver reshaping vehicle design, manufacturing, and lifecycle management.

Key Technology Trends in the Automotive Industry in 2025

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 demand is highest for vehicles under four years old, which have the latest technologies but are less expensive than new cars. This includes pre-owned electric and hybrid vehicles, and dealerships now offer certified pre-owned cars that look and function like new ones at a lower cost. As we look forward to 2025, RSM’s automotive professionals predict a slowdown overall in the growth of the industry as well as a reduction in overall margins and profitability. Many OEM’s are already revisiting original forecasts and realigning through-put and production schedules accordingly.

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.

Automotive Events Worldwide

  • The answer lies in education, infrastructure, and trust-building—slow but steady wins the race.
  • Reports from 2022 showed vehicle inventory was stagnant, sitting between 1 million and 1.1 million vehicles, for the first six months of the year.
  • Emerging companies are developing advanced sensing technologies to collect extensive vehicle data and enable vehicles to better understand their surroundings.
  • This platform uses secured safety assurance and risk-mitigation principles to detect and address failures in assisted and self-driving systems.
  • Additionally, several trucking companies have tested self-driving technology, and it will soon become commonplace, with fleets of autonomous trucks sharing the road with traditional vehicles.
  • Startups are developing big data solutions to help manufacturers and related industries streamline operations and maximize profits.
  • Singaporean startup EVIE Autonomous designs electric, autonomous shuttles for last-mile delivery, passenger transport, agriculture, and cargo movement.
  • With EV makers in China engaging in a price war due to declining demand, Chinese brands with strong hybrid presently are gaining popularity.
  • Also, IoT sensors such as LiDAR and radar expand perception by generating environmental data.

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. By 2025, V2X technology is expected to significantly create more innovative transportation networks and advance autonomous driving capabilities. 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.

The solution recognizes the power requirements of every car and automatically controls the charging speed for each vehicle. Swedish startup Volta Trucks makes Volta Zero, an electric truck for urban deliveries. This vehicle’s design prioritizes driver safety and comfort, featuring a central driving position and panoramic vision for enhanced visibility. 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.

Contact Avenga 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. This technology will be further developed through 2025, with the end results showing up in the following years.

Success will depend on manufacturers’ ability to balance technological advancement with practical implementation while meeting evolving consumer expectations. The transformation of the automotive sector is far from complete, but the direction is clear – towards a more sustainable, connected and intelligent future of mobility. Traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles are steadily losing ground as governments worldwide implement stricter regulations, including the EU’s upcoming ban on new ICE vehicle sales by 2035. This regulatory advancement, combined with growing environmental awareness, is accelerating the shift towards electric mobility. Canadian startup Aadhya Navik designs software solutions that improve safety, comfort, and traffic efficiency in autonomous driving.

Automotive Topics and Trends

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 number of autonomous trucks on the road was expected to increase from roughly 150 in 2020 to over 2000 in 2021. It’s expected that the $800 billion trucking industry could benefit from a significant reduction in the 4900 trucking-related deaths that occur each year if only Level 3 or 4 autonomy would gain traction. As of the end of 2023, over 1 billion miles have been driven with Tesla Autopilot enables. As a result of this partnership, Ford is expected to launch its own self-driving car business.

The industry itself, however, has remained relatively stable over the last decade.

EVs also enable new business models like vehicle-to-grid services and battery leasing. This tech shift is also accelerating the move toward software-defined vehicles and connected ecosystems. Trends span sustainable manufacturing, EV expansion, supply chain nearshoring, vehicle cybersecurity, automotive semiconductors, sensor fusion, autonomous driving, subscription models, SDVs, and V2X. They shift the industry toward electrification, digitalization, and connected mobility.

Sustainable manufacturing and EV expansion deliver cost savings, regulatory compliance, and reduced emissions, positioning automakers as leaders in green mobility. For this in-depth research on the Top Auto Trends & Startups, we analyzed a sample of 3836 global startups & scaleups. The car market trends are shifting towards regional suppliers to diversify their supply chains and mitigate risks.

All of this puts the auto industry at the back of the line when it comes to receiving chips. Now, 94% of consumers check the manufacturer’s website for product information before purchasing a part. And Tesla had already decided to close all its stores in 2019, now selling all new cars online. This makes sense, as 83% of car customers already said they wish they could save time by shopping online. This number is expected to have risen in 2020 as dealers everywhere turned to digital channels. As of 2023, the two now equip Ford and Lincoln vehicles with a built-in Android operating system.

Singapore’s adaptive traffic signal systems, along with real-time monitoring, ERP pricing, and predictive analytics, improve traffic efficiency. The automotive V2X market reached USD 2.87 billion in 2025 and is expected to expand to USD 18.67 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 45.43%. This rapid expansion reflects its role in reducing road accidents, enabling connected mobility, and smart city systems worldwide. Moreover, the startup engineers the ECU platform with compliance to ISO for functional safety. It also aligns with ISO for cybersecurity and ensures reliability under demanding automotive standards.

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. Market leaders are adjusting their strategies to align with current trends, further emphasizing the shift towards EV-only vehicles. Just days ago, Jaguar unveiled their new concept car, the Jaguar Type 00, a fully electric, futuristic vehicle that marks a departure from every other car the brand has produced. This transformation is also expected to help revive sluggish vehicle sales by 2030. The next decade will undoubtedly see dramatic changes in how we drive, how we share vehicles, and how we engage with the technology that powers our transportation systems.