These pods use AI and machine learning algorithms for real-time perception and adaptive decision-making. The startup’s technology allows these pods to adapt across industries, enhancing efficiency and safety in transporting people and goods. Singaporean startup EVIE Autonomous designs electric, autonomous shuttles for last-mile delivery, passenger transport, agriculture, and cargo movement. Its product range includes an electric modular chassis, the standard autonomous shuttle pod, and pods for other applications.

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.

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

The EU enforces a 2035 zero-emission mandate, and the US Inflation Reduction Act channels subsidies into domestic EV production and attracts international manufacturers. In addition, the startup integrates regional infrastructure knowledge into vehicle design to ensure durability, accessibility, and energy efficiency. Additionally, it uses the Future Trends Index to identify and prioritize relevant design directions across different markets.

Connected Vehicle Technologies

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.

China remains dominant but new players are also making noise on the EV scene

• Dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) based on IEEE 802.11p facilitates direct vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication.
• Using data from IoT technology, drivers receive real-time route suggestions to avoid traffic jams and ease congestion, ensuring faster, stress-free travel.
• The adoption of augmented reality (AR) in head-up displays and automated parking systems is expanding, which is advancing ADAS technologies.
• EV sales are going to increase aggressively in 2025, providing a bright spot in the automotive industry.
• 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.
• The trend is irreversible and will accelerate innovation while challenging legacy ICE-dependent supply chains.

Canadian startup KonnectShift provides IoT solutions to optimize fleet and asset management. The startup develops Konnect – GS01, an automatic electronic logging device (ELD) to continuously track vehicular health. Israeli startup DAV offers a decentralized autonomous vehicles platform based on blockchain technology.

Autonomous Vehicles are Changing the Face of the Auto Industry

• Connected cars create new revenue streams via subscription services, data monetization, and personalized experiences.
• The adoption of pre-owned luxury cars is increasing due to easy access to financing and lower entry prices.
• While fully autonomous vehicles have the potential to revolutionise how society moves from A to B, the industry is taking a more measured approach to implementation.
• Luxury car brands are experiencing growth due to increased tangible luxury offerings and rising disposable incomes.
• The strides made in EV battery innovation, renewable energy adoption, and sustainability are paving the way for a more resilient and forward-thinking industry.
• While most of these concerns can be overcome, it will take some time, and this time will be the most challenging for the industry.
• Whilst the U.S. may be bucking it, there is certainly a global trend towards a more sustainability-forward manufacturing scene.
• 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.
• Moreover, economic efficiency improves adoption, as autonomous vehicles reduce transport costs by up to 40% and maximize logistics utilization.

Along with battery-powered electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) are another alternative to internal combustion engines. 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.

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

Sensor fusion that combines information from various sources improves safety and autonomy by enabling accurate decision-making. Indian startup ThinkSeed develops middleware solutions that enhance smartphone connectivity to vehicles for secure access and infotainment. Its product, THINKey, transforms smartphones into digital keys that allow users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles.

Electric Mobility

Finally, automotive manufacturers are increasingly adopting PMO software to standardize the execution of complex projects with globally distributed teams and ensure compliance with industry standards. In addition, assembling a car involves a massive number of parts (30,000 on average), with materials accounting for a significant portion (40-50 percent) of the manufacturing cost. To maintain cost competitiveness, automotive procurement teams must be critical in managing supplier networks and supply chains for existing and upcoming vehicle models. This includes aligning new technologies and business models with the company’s vision. With consumers increasingly prioritizing environmental performance when purchasing vehicles, automakers must focus on reducing emissions and developing more sustainable transportation options. Most car buyers now consider a vehicle’s environmental impact before purchasing, with many willing to pay a premium of over £2,000 for greener emissions.

Digital Twins and Simulation technologies take centre-stage

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. 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. Blockchain secures supply chains and in-car data, and extended reality (XR) advances design, testing, and training. Additive manufacturing shortens prototyping cycles, and IoT-driven analytics improve predictive maintenance. Changing consumer preferences, cost efficiency, technological progress, and sustainability targets drive this innovation. 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).

IONT tech specializes in EV Charging Solutions

It also aligns with ISO for cybersecurity and ensures reliability under demanding automotive standards. Also, automotive Ethernet and time-sensitive networking (TSN) provide deterministic in-vehicle data highways that keep safety-critical communication reliable. In addition, SWYTCHD includes access to premium electric scooters and cars such as the Ola S1 Pro, Ather 450X, TVS iQube, and Nexon EV. This approach enhances road efficiency and reduces fuel consumption, thereby lowering emissions.

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. Personalising the IVX will drive the need for AI agents, which is one reason why EDA tool vendor Synopsys is working with Sima.ai. Across in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), there have been various OEM innovations in the past year, with AI models being integrated into these systems. For example, Mercedes-Benz is using Chat-GPT for intelligent virtual assistants within its vehicles. 94 percent of global automakers are using ARM-based technology for automotive applications, alongside the top 15 automotive semiconductor suppliers in the world adopting ARM technologies in their silicon.

Top 10 Global Automotive Industry Trends in 2025

This also presents an emerging opportunity to connect the vehicle ecosystem, creating a dynamic adaptation of data for road and weather conditions, assisted by IoT-enabled devices. 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. Almost 40% of all autonomous vehicles sold in 2025 are predicted to have L2 ADAS features.

Sustainable Automotive Technologies

• Also, GPS and V2X connectivity improve fleet distribution and service reliability.
• Let’s consider the recent trends in automobile industry related to the application of latest technologies.
• This includes aligning new technologies and business models with the company’s vision.
• Despite initial scepticism, the automotive industry is embracing enhanced connectivity by enabling real-time updates and post-production feature additions.
• In these regions, shared mobility options like vans, minibuses, and two- and three-wheelers are more common and often electrified due to their affordability.
• Big data and advanced analytics play a crucial role in decision-making throughout a vehicle’s lifecycle.
• Internet of Things (IoT) and real-time monitoring solutions improve shipment tracking, warehouse oversight, and production visibility.

AI is also transforming automotive manufacturing by speeding up production and cutting costs. In 2024, the automotive industry experienced significant transformations, with advancements in electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving technologies, and shifts in global markets. Moreover, high-performance computing platforms supply the processing power needed to run these systems in real time.

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.

As per market and industry experts, these four trends represent the future of the automotive industry. It won’t take too long for the CASE to accelerate the transition of the automotive industry from the way it has been working for hundreds of years. The modernized vehicles available in the market have opened an opportunity for the firms that supply and also manufacture the parts.

Its technology transports ultra-high-bandwidth video and data from sensors to processors with ultra-low latency. For this, it uses advanced system-on-chips (SoCs) that integrate mixed-signal analog and digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms. 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. This includes driver monitoring systems, adaptive cruise control, and collision avoidance systems. Integrating vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication further improves connectivity and safety.

• Through V2X, vehicles can share information about road conditions, accidents, and traffic patterns, allowing for real-time decision-making.
• Sensor fusion and autonomous vehicle technologies enhance safety and enable intelligent driving solutions while ADAS bridges the gap to full autonomy.
• Search volume for “Infineon Technologies” has seen modest growth over the past 5 years.
• More driverless journeys will occur as technology continues to be enhanced and refined.
• The startup’s platform, Aqueduct, is easy to install, has 4 charging modules with up to 22kW, provides monthly reports, and uses a Typ2 charging cable.
• Stellantis, for instance, has demonstrated how AI can transform production efficiency.
• In 2026, the auto industry accelerates its transition from combustion-based production to electrified, software-driven, and sustainable mobility.

The sensor integrates chip-level innovations that reduce power consumption, simplify hardware complexity, and enable performance through a modular architecture. This design ensures durability, compact packaging, and flexible vehicle integration. Chinese startup Chipv offers automotive semiconductors that combine computing capabilities with motor control and power management. Its RISC-V IP processors adopt 32/64-bit architectures supported by a nine-stage dual-issue pipeline. Connectivity also adds momentum, with 5G and V2X semiconductors enabling real-time data exchange and secure over-the-air updates. Also, regulatory frameworks such as ISO and Europe’s mandate for emergency braking systems encourage mission-critical chip integration across new vehicles.

In 2023, the global connected car market was valued at $80.87 billion and projecting remarkable growth. It is expected to expand from $95.14 billion in 2024 to $386.82 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.2% over the forecast period according to some figures. 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.

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. Automotive industry trends refer to changes in patterns within the automotive sector that influence vehicle design, production, marketing, and usage.

• AI technologies like machine learning, deep learning, and computer vision are advancing robotic automation.
• Also, regulatory frameworks such as ISO and Europe’s mandate for emergency braking systems encourage mission-critical chip integration across new vehicles.
• Henkel is using digital simulation tools to co-develop EV battery designs with automotive partners.
• What lies ahead is not just a continuation of trends but the potential for transformation that pushes the boundaries of how we move, connect, and thrive.
• LiDAR enables high-resolution 3D mapping by emitting laser pulses to measure distances.
• Explore competitors’ website traffic stats, discover growth points, and expand your market share.
• Silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors improve energy efficiency in high-voltage EV systems by reducing losses and enhancing thermal management.

This facilitates the integration of Apple CarPlay, Google Android Auto, and media streaming into in-vehicle infotainment systems. UK-based startup WF Telematics offers vehicle and asset tracking solutions for businesses seeking efficient fleet management and asset monitoring. Its vehicle tracking system provides 24/7 real-time visibility, supported by self-install and engineer-fitted options, with no minimum fleet size required. With the introduction of 5G networks, advanced telematics features like real-time diagnostics, autonomous driving, and improved safety systems are becoming even more feasible.

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.

Shift Toward Mobility Services

What lies ahead is not just a continuation of trends but the potential for transformation that pushes the boundaries of how we move, connect, and thrive. The recently proposed 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, while temporarily delayed, may also have a drastic impact on the global automotive supply chain. 2025 is shaping up to be an interesting year for automotive with regards to global shifts in the market with a mixed bag of potential harmony and disruption.

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. GenAI offers potential for advanced applications like predictive maintenance, where AI could assist in analyzing vehicle data and forecast potential failures before they occur. This would mark a critical shift toward an era of personalized vehicle recommendations and optimized repair services. By addressing issues proactively, manufacturers and service providers can further reduce breakdowns, enhance vehicle reliability, and improve overall customer satisfaction. A simple yet impactful example would be the replacement of vehicle manuals with voice-activated AI assistants.

b. Charging Infrastructure Expansion

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. In the United States, the newly appointed administration has issued several executive orders that will likely have drastic impacts on both global and national automotive markets. One such order significantly impacts the future of EVs and EV infrastructure by license plate lookup and crime prevention rolling back policies that once supported their growth.

Furthermore, the need for EV charging stations is no longer a challenge to the electric vehicle market. While it’s true that at the end of 2023, there wasn’t an adequate supply of electric mobility hubs, the charging infrastructure in Europe has improved drastically. Currently, there are about 750,000 public charging stations with a combined 28.7 GW of charging capacity. Notably, China, Europe, and the US have established themselves as the leading EV markets, with other countries following suit. 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.

The automotive industry is highly dynamic, and these trends are subject to change over time. Monitoring and understanding these trends are critical for automakers and other stakeholders to stay ahead of their competitors. The US-based startup Apex AI enables automotive companies to implement complex AI solutions. Apex.OS runs on automotive electronic control units (ECUs) and offers robust, reliable, and secure APIs to develop autonomous mobility solutions. ApexAutonomy offers modules to build 3D perception, localization, and control to enable autonomous vehicles. Lastly, MARV.Automotive is a configurable and extensible data management platform that reliably transmits data from the vehicle to the cloud.