Automotive trends for 2025 ..

And with about two-thirds of people saying they would rather drive than ride in an autonomous car, much of the near-term focus MENAFN feature on EpicVIN data 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.

♻️ Circular Economy Principles and Eco-Friendly Production

They improve energy efficiency through wide-bandgap devices that extend EV range and minimize charging times. The semiconductors also enable infotainment, voice assistants, and AI-driven interfaces for a better user experience. 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.

Digital Twins and Simulation technologies take centre-stage

• By 2030, automotive industry trends 2030 will witness a significant shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles, driving sustainable growth in the car market.
• Personalising the IVX will drive the need for AI agents, which is one reason why EDA tool vendor Synopsys is working with Sima.ai.
• Autonomous driving is a key innovation driver but remains in a development and regulatory phase.
• The currently available infotainment systems can connect with smartphones, sensors, ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) as well as other in-vehicle and external systems.
• It also provides lane-change algorithms that ensure comfortable lateral movement and personalized passenger comfort profiles refined with each journey.
• The startup employs the Perceived Quality Index to eliminate engineering bias by translating customer insights into measurable quality improvements.
• 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.
• The chip shortage is proving to be costly for the industry with many auto manufacturers shutting down plants due to low supply.

In addition, the startup strengthens automotive cybersecurity with features such as real-time intrusion detection and automated containment protocols. It is also integrated into fleet management dashboards and security operations centers (SOC). US-based startup MotionSafe provides AI-powered cybersecurity solutions that protect connected vehicles from data breaches and cyber threats.

Discover all Auto Trends, Technologies & Startups

It also allows operators to integrate services and microservices in the chargers to make the charging process profitable. In addition, the solution works with any EV charger and enables new features to be shipped throughout the network. Additionally, blockchain is instrumental in verifying the supply chain of automotive parts, ensuring that materials and components are sourced from legal and trustworthy suppliers.

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.

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. 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.

⚖️ Regulatory Hurdles and Ethical Dilemmas in Autonomous Tech

Norway set a record in the electric vehicle sector in August 2024, as the number of all-electric vehicles on the road surpassed that of gasoline-powered vehicles for the first time. In terms of new car sales, Norway boasts the highest percentage of battery-electric vehicles in Europe. It also leads Europe in new EV market activity, with just 9.61 percent of new passenger car sales in 2023 attributed to gasoline, diesel, and non-rechargeable hybrid vehicles.

Shared mobility

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. OEMs are advancing and navigating regulatory challenges to introduce and test L3 and L4 automation, setting the background for augmented adoption of autonomous vehicles. The used car market is also expected to become more important for consumers looking for cheaper EVs, which typically face greater levels of depreciation than internal combustion engine vehicles.

Automotive trends for 2025

Car companies plan to integrate powertrain components in the next five to ten years by combining onboard chargers with batteries. Tesla already employs single inverter housings across its models, offering efficient integration of power electronics. This shift is driven by the growing need for more efficient power management in electric vehicles, resulting in smarter and more streamlined EV designs. 2025 will witness the automotive industry transitioning from Level 2 autonomy to Levels 2.5 and 3, representing a substantial evolution in automotive technology and enhancing vehicle automation and safety.

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 standard ranges from SAE Level 0 (no automation) to SAE Level 5 (full automation). The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) “Levels of Driving Automation” standard shows how stages of vehicle automation progress. In China, it was even reported that lithium-ion battery pack prices fell below $100/kWh for the first time. It’s estimated that to meet many of these net-zero emission goals, EVs will have to climb to at least half of all new car sales by 2050.

AI and predictive analytics enhance demand forecasting, risk detection, and sourcing optimization. Internet of Things (IoT) and real-time monitoring solutions improve shipment tracking, warehouse oversight, and production visibility. In addition, it offers charging solutions for e-bikes, including wallboxes and mass-charging systems for hotels and public spaces, thereby broadening access to sustainable transport. Czech Republic-based startup IONT tech manufactures EV charging stations that support home, business, and public use.

ChargeX specializes in Modular Electric Vehicle Charging 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. For the eighth time, we asked managers and decision-makers in the automotive industry which trends and developments they are currently focusing on.

By 2025, 48% of light vehicles sold across 43 major economies will be SAE level 2

Meanwhile, environmental concerns will drive automakers to focus on sustainable manufacturing processes, alternative fuels, and circular economy principles. 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.

Aeluma specializes in Scalable Silicon Manufacturing

Volvo has adopted megacasting techniques to simplify EV production, reducing the number of components required and streamlining assembly processes. This both lowers costs and improves vehicle performance, addressing both market demands and sustainability goals. 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.

SDVs are more efficient and safer and can be updated with the latest technologies through software, keeping them up to date in a constantly evolving industry. The big data market in automotive is growing, with a projected market size of USD 5.92 billion in 2024, expanding at a CAGR of 16.78% to reach USD 12.86 billion by 2029. Startups are developing big data solutions to help manufacturers and related industries streamline operations and maximize profits.

• People are shifting to EVs because of their design and their being environmentally friendly.
• This data alerted drivers to pedestrians and cyclists before they became visible.
• In 2025, a great number of car manufacturers are planning to improve their infotainment systems providing them with more and more advanced capabilities.
• Gallium nitride (GaN) chips enable high-frequency switching, compact designs, and fast charging.
• Software-defined vehicle (SDV) architectures are revolutionising automotive technology, with electric models often leading this digital transformation.

Such advancements align with global trends favoring autonomous fleet deployment in urban areas, positioning automakers to meet future demand for self-driving capabilities. Most consumers today are much more concerned with what the in-cabin experience is going to be, than the size and power of the engine. Global economic slowdowns and fierce competition from Chinese manufacturers have slowed the growth of EVs. In 2025, the automotive industry’s digital marketing spending is predicted to keep growing. This rise in digital advertising spending is being steered by the growing usage of social media. Dealerships need to integrate strategic frameworks to capture potential buyers across different stages in the process with the use of social media marketing, click-to-call conversions, and messaging apps.

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. 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. OEMs seek alternative sources to improve sourcing flexibility and bring products to market faster.

Further, Chipv creates power control chips equipped with triple RISC-V cores, extensive on-chip memory, and robust hardware security modules. In the US, the CHIPS and Science Act allocates USD 52.7 billion in funding and offers a 25% investment tax credit. 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.

• The systems optimize the performance of electric power steering, vehicle pumps, cooling fans, and HVAC modules.
• Of course, the danger does not stop with vehicles as smart infrastructure is also at risk, potentially jeopardising safety and operational reliability.
• Project portfolio management (PPM) has developed significantly over the past few years and is expected to evolve even faster in…
• For EVs specifically, weight reduction translates directly into extended range and improved battery performance.

Predictive maintenance powered by AI minimizes machine failures, while IoT networks provide detailed insights into factory operations. These practices not only meet regulatory demands but also resonate with consumers increasingly drawn to environmentally responsible brands. Toyota’s North Carolina battery plant exemplifies this commitment, with operations fully powered by renewables. Recycling initiatives, such as reusing EV batteries, further emphasize the industry’s shift toward circular manufacturing.

Why the EV Boom Hasn’t Happened

• 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.
• This shift supports mobility-as-a-service (MaaS), reducing the number of idle vehicles and addressing urban transportation needs without adding more cars.
• Younger buyers often prefer subscription models or shared mobility over ownership.
• 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.
• 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.
• Hybrid vehicles present the perfect compromise of lower emissions and enhanced fuel economy without the need for charging.

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.

Top 10 Global Automotive Industry Trends in 2025

Also, IoT sensors such as LiDAR and radar expand perception by generating environmental data. For instance, Audi and BMW vehicles exchanged sensor data, including camera feeds, during 5G-V2X Direct demonstrations in Berlin. This data alerted drivers to pedestrians and cyclists before they became visible. Dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) based on IEEE 802.11p facilitates direct vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication.

Automakers integrate these systems to offer more reliable vehicles across global markets. In 2024, EV sales reached 17 million units, accounting for over 20% of global new car sales. Also, the EV market is projected to reach USD 6.16 trillion by 2035 at a CAGR of 25.32%.

By 2025, the sector is expected to experience continued technological advances, heightened sustainability efforts, and shifting market dynamics. In this article, we’ll explore the significant focuses of the automotive industry in 2025, ranging from electric mobility to autonomous driving and sustainability initiatives. One of the most significant shifts in the automotive industry is the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). The expected reach in 2026 is expected to reach nearly $62 billion at a growth of CAGR 22.75%.

These systems can detect objects, evaluate road environments, and make real-time decisions to further enhance safety and comfort. 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.

ADAS adoption enables lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking to rely on AI-powered processors and sensor fusion chips. CARNIQ Technologies secures the auto industry by embedding compliance-driven cybersecurity into development lifecycles. German startup CARNIQ Technologies enhances vehicle cybersecurity through web-based and AI-powered tools that ensure compliance with automotive standards. Further, it establishes local manufacturing facilities, which reduce supply chain dependency and generate employment and stimulate economic growth. For our trend reports, we leverage our proprietary StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, covering 7M+ global startups, 20K technologies & trends, plus 150M+ patents, news articles, and market reports. As technology progresses, expect these trends to influence every facet of the automotive sector.

The automotive industry is set to witness huge growth in integrated drive ePowertain systems that reduce weight and cost and offer improvements like enhanced vehicle range and efficiency. In the future, advanced integrated solutions will dominate, leading to lighter and more efficient electric powertrains and driving the next generation of high-performance and mass-market EVs. The integrated powertrain segment is likely to hold ~60-65% of the total e-powertrain market in 2025. Connected cars create new revenue streams 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.