FRM 2025: Sector Report Automotive Industry KPMG in Germany

The global automotive sensor fusion market is projected to reach USD 3.3 billion by 2030 at a 42.4% CAGR. The market reflects its role in meeting strict safety rules and consumer demand for smarter vehicles. 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.

💻 Trend 2: The Rise of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) – Cars as Computers

It highlights high startup activity in Western Europe and the United States, followed by India. From these, 20 promising startups are featured below, selected based on factors like founding year, location, and funding. We don’t just regurgitate press releases—we road-trip, wrench, code, and occasionally sleep in dealership parking lots to bring you unfiltered truth. Our proprietary data blends EPA fuel-economy dumps, NHTSA complaint logs, insurance quote engines, and Reddit sentiment (yes, really).

• Its bidirectional charging system enables EV batteries to both draw electricity and feed surplus power back, which balances demand during peak hours and reduces strain on infrastructure.
• Governments worldwide are imposing stricter emissions standards and incentivizing zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs).
• Additionally, looking at supply chains, AI and machine learning are driving the rise of autonomous logistics systems that can self-optimise routing, scheduling, and inventory management.
• The final trend, and one which has been subject to a lot of attention (and hype), is driverless transportation.
• Geopolitical risks, regulatory frameworks, cost advantages, and compliance needs drive the auto industry toward supply chain resilience and nearshoring.
• This digital transformation enhances scalability, a key driver in the competitive automotive sector.
• Its technology applies signal processing algorithms to eliminate interference and ensure radar units operate reliably within the same environment.

Aeluma specializes in Scalable Silicon Manufacturing

Since we’ve already explored the use of AI in the auto industry, it makes perfect sense to discuss connected cars, which are undoubtedly one of the top trends for the future. Connected cars are equipped with cutting-edge technology that allows them to connect to the Internet, other vehicles, and external software. These cars offer numerous benefits, not just for drivers and manufacturers, but also for passengers and the environment. By optimizing driving routes, connected cars help reduce emissions, contributing to a greener future. Using data from IoT technology, drivers receive real-time route suggestions to avoid traffic jams and ease congestion, ensuring faster, stress-free travel. Autonomous driving technology is one of the automotive industry’s most exciting and potentially disruptive developments.

• It also provides streamlined audit management, structured frameworks for continuous improvement, and intuitive escalation processes.
• Also, advanced composites and recycled inputs reduce reliance on virgin resources.
• Buyers would be shifting to a new modernized model and will directly deal with OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and the dealer will play the role of an agent.
• The solution recognizes the power requirements of every car and automatically controls the charging speed for each vehicle.
• They’re so important that one analyst said, “semiconductors have moved ahead of oil as the world’s key commodity input for growth”.
• The industry will continue to experience disruptions from geopolitical headwinds to regulatory and legislative developments, data security and economic challenges.
• This deal comes at a time when car sales in the EU have seen a noticeable dip as consumer preferences shift.

It also provides validation services that ensure resilience against potential risks. German startup CARNIQ Technologies enhances vehicle cybersecurity through web-based and AI-powered tools that ensure compliance with automotive standards. 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. Moreover, the startup’s marketplace connects professionals in a secure environment. It provides exclusive access to vehicles and optimizes purchase decisions based on supply and demand trends. Also, digital twin technology builds virtual replicas of supply chains to simulate disruptions and optimize performance.

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. Advances in solid-state batteries promise higher energy density and faster charging times, while the expansion of ultra-fast chargers addresses key barriers to EV adoption. With the growing popularity of bidirectional charging (V2G) technology, EVs now contribute energy to the grid to improve stability. Volkswagen’s Traton Group, recognising the urgency of addressing these bottlenecks, is planning a third battery assembly plant in Europe.

• The chip shortage is proving to be costly for the industry with many auto manufacturers shutting down plants due to low supply.
• Using data from IoT technology, drivers receive real-time route suggestions to avoid traffic jams and ease congestion, ensuring faster, stress-free travel.
• As for those who already use micromobility vehicles, 32% say they often or very often use it instead of a private car.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Bring the studio to your cars.

• Displays will also be a key driver of automotive technologies in 2025, from microLEDs to the production of holographic windscreens and smart glass.
• Chinese startup Chipv offers automotive semiconductors that combine computing capabilities with motor control and power management.
• Therefore, you should focus on environmentally conscious manufacturing processes and eco-friendly cars like electric vehicles.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• In 2026, the auto industry accelerates its transition from combustion-based production to electrified, software-driven, and sustainable mobility.
• A quick online search reveals that by 2040, 33 million autonomous cars are expected to be on the road.

These vehicles reduce emissions and feature innovative designs for modern commuters. Avvenire focuses on sustainable mobility to contribute to a cleaner environment and meet the demand for green transportation. Sensor fusion and autonomous vehicle technologies enhance safety and enable intelligent driving solutions while ADAS bridges the gap to full autonomy. However, an SSAB survey reveals that cost and investment challenges remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. Despite these hurdles, the integration of sustainable materials is expected to accelerate as regulatory frameworks tighten and consumer demand for environmentally responsible products grows.

Mechatnom applies Automotive Software Modules

The same report states that 68% of drivers believe car companies should collect personal data, but only 5% agree to unrestricted collection. Most favour an opt-in approach (63%), and many are willing to share data for benefits, with 67% open to lower insurance rates, 43% for personalised features, and 36% for improved safety options. As will be discussed later, with more data being collected for premium features, the inevitable concern for data security is raised, and cyber security threats loom overhead. Connected vehicles are entering a software-defined era where 5G, AI, and V2X convert cars into real-time data nodes that communicate smoothly with infrastructure, other vehicles, and the cloud. Our new report spotlights 10 connected vehicle trends to watch in 2026 that promise safer, smarter mobility and fresh revenue streams for automakers.

SafeAD enables Large-scale Fleet Learning

For instance, India’s eBus Sewa scheme deploys 10K electric buses to curb urban pollution. Further, it establishes local manufacturing facilities, which reduce supply chain dependency and generate employment and stimulate economic growth. Read on to explore each trend in depth – uncover key drivers, current market stats, cutting-edge innovations, and the 20 leading innovators shaping the future.

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

They also enable software updates, enhance entertainment, and facilitate smooth communication in connected and software-defined vehicles. The concept of Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is changing how people think about transportation. Instead of owning a car, consumers will increasingly use digital platforms to access transportation services on demand, whether through ride-sharing, car-sharing, or subscription models. MaaS is set to become a key focus for the automotive industry in 2025 as companies look to diversify their business models and create new revenue streams. Autonomous driving is one of the most prominent applications of AI in the industry.

However, there are yet to be more autonomous vehicles on the road due to the technological and safety challenges that must be overcome. Driverless cars have sometimes struggled with unexpected incidents on the road and in poor weather conditions. The future trends in the automobile industry suggest that 2025 can be the milestone year for connected cars. The expansion will stem from the speedy spread of data that can be capitalized upon to lower expenses, streamline research and development, enhance products and services, and restrict emissions.

Sensor fusion that combines information from various sources improves safety and autonomy by enabling accurate decision-making. 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. Indian startup ThinkSeed develops middleware solutions that enhance smartphone connectivity to vehicles for secure access and infotainment.

With 2024 now firmly in the rearview mirror, let us dive into how those trends have developed into 2025 and what that means for middle-market organisations for the year ahead. In addition, it offers insurance-approved vehicle tracking systems with Thatcham S5 and S7 certification to meet insurer requirements and offers nationwide installation with priority police response. Consumer demand for eco-friendly products is rising, with 80% of US consumers concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases in April 2024, up from 68% in 2023. North America led the AV market in 2024 with over 40% revenue share, while Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, with an expected CAGR of 35% from 2024 to 2033. Its early fusion approach integrates LiDAR and radar data, while neural networks infer road elements and topology to create accurate high-definition maps.

CARNIQ Technologies specializes in Car Security & Compliance

Searches for “autonomous driving” have increased by over 1,029% over the past 10 years. However, it is estimated that over 60% of all Americans have garages that will allow for electric vehicle charging. Because of this growth, it’s estimated that there are more than 40 million electric cars on the road. 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.

Explore the Top 10 Automotive Industry Trends in 2024

In addition, the IoT’s potential in the automotive industry presents a significant chance for manufacturers to revamp their marketing strategies. IoT solutions can offer numerous benefits to end-users by utilizing interconnected systems, such as better safety, driving assistance, and predictive maintenance. Collecting user data through these sensors creates ample opportunities for marketers to promote upselling.

• The future trends in the automobile industry suggest that 2025 can be the milestone year for connected cars.
• For example, over-the-air (OTA) updates depend on secure encryption and authentication to block malicious code injection.
• Contact Avenga today to learn more about what industry experts have to say about these trends.
• With zero emissions, low noise, and a range of up to 400 km, FALAK offers a sustainable urban mobility solution.

Evolving Video Marketing Solutions

Top car brands and dealerships are embracing VR as part of their dealership photography strategies to improve the customer experience. 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.

By the end of that decade, it’s predicted that over 30% of the cars on the road will be EVs. The massive rotation in the global vehicle fleet is predicted to take place in the 2030s. Bloomberg New Energy Finance expects EVs to account for 10% of all new car sales by 2025 and 58% by 2040.

KonnectShift provides IoT-based Fleet Optimization

Quantum computing accelerates material discovery and crash simulation, and edge computing and 5G offer real-time responsiveness in vehicles. Moreover, the technology combines EV chargers, a DC bus, smart inverters, and an energy management platform. This coordinates power flows between vehicles, buildings, and distributed energy resources. Its bidirectional charging technology allows EV batteries to supply electricity to buildings during outages or peak demand. The technology also draws energy during off-peak hours to lower costs and stabilize the grid.

RevitsOne provides AI-based Fleet Management

Major automakers, such as General Motors, are expanding telematics offerings by integrating subscription-based services like OnStar as standard features across models. Partnerships between telecom providers and automakers, like Targa Telematics’ collaboration with Renault, are enhancing connectivity solutions, particularly for fleet management. The European Union’s Vehicle General Safety Regulation (GSR2), effective July 2024, mandates several ADAS features in new vehicles. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plans to require automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems in all new light-duty vehicles by 2026. Miniaturization trends in automotive electronics enable the integration of multiple sensors into compact systems to improve vehicle performance while reducing verify claims from sellers with VIN evidence costs. US-based startup Aeluma develops semiconductor technology for mobile devices, AI, AR/VR, autonomous systems, and other applications.

Micromobility Presents a Potential Shift Among Consumers

Also, applications extend from adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and traffic jam assistance to robotaxis and driverless trucking. Advanced cameras paired with computer vision enable vehicles to classify road users, read signs, and recognize traffic signals, directly supporting ADAS and autonomous navigation. This ensures cybersecurity and reliability for engine control, powertrain management, and other mission-critical automotive applications. Silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors improve energy efficiency in high-voltage EV systems by reducing losses and enhancing thermal management. Moreover, Asia-Pacific leads the automotive semiconductor market with a 45% global share. In Europe, the EU’s Chips Act aims to raise the bloc’s share of global chip production from under 10% to about 20% by 2030.

Electric Mobility

Swedish startup Radar Reticence designs radar sensors that advance sensor fusion capabilities in the automotive industry. Its technology applies signal processing algorithms to eliminate interference and ensure radar units operate reliably within the same environment. Also, MotionSafe protects the auto industry by securing vehicle data, supporting supply chains, and ensuring a safe transition to connected mobility. South African startup Motomatix applies AI and custom software solutions to strengthen supply chain resilience in the automotive repair sector. Supply chain resilience and nearshoring strengthen operational stability, while vehicle cybersecurity ensures trust in connected ecosystems.

Autonomous Driving: Waymo Offers 250K Paid Rides Weekly Across US Cities

Chinese startup Move-X Autonomous Driving offers Level 4 autonomous driving through integrated vehicle platforms designed for commercial deployment. 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.

Automotive’s 2025: Gearing Up for a Sustainable and Intelligent Future

Perhaps the biggest shift here is in a new manufacturing landscape, with new decentralised hubs across the globe producing EVs for local markets. On the other side of the globe, in Asia, China has implemented a landmark energy policy, aptly named the ‘Energy Law’, as of January 2025. The law emphasises a cleaner and more efficient use of fossil fuels, placing a higher emphasis on sustainability and developing renewable energy infrastructures. 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. Moving further east, Thailand’s electric car sales quadrupled, aided by subsidies and Chinese carmaker investments, positioning the country as a potential EV manufacturing hub.