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.

The integration of Industry 4.0 technologies is revolutionizing automotive manufacturing. IoT, AI, and digital twins are becoming essential tools for improving efficiency, reducing downtime, and optimizing production processes. The push toward electrification is reshaping the automotive manufacturing landscape. By 2025, we will see increased investments in EV production as automakers cater to evolving consumer demands and regulatory pressures. However there are huge opportunities for the industry in the shift to software-defined vehicles and autonomous driving. These shifts are beneficial to ARM, STMicroelectronics, NXP Semiconductors and Infineon Technologies.

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.

Automotive Sourcing Models are Changing

We expect to see the concept of Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) develop through 2025. Initial deployments focus on simpler, grid-like cities such as Phoenix in the USA, Milton Keynes in the UK, and Singapore. Soon, this will expand to more complex urban environments as vehicle access becomes increasingly prioritised over ownership among the driving masses.

They have downgraded their EV targets and scaled back production of fully electric vehicles, suggesting that the transition to EVs will take longer than previously expected. The automotive industry leads in technological innovation that will reshape vehicle design, construction, and user experience in 2025. Emerging automotive industry trends include the increased adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), advanced semiconductors, and the growing focus on vehicle cybersecurity. The future trends in the automobile industry predict a roller-coaster ride for players. In 2025, the automotive industry will face global headwinds such as the energy crisis, slower global demand, and ongoing supply-chain issues.

• Usage-based insurance (UBI) models use driving behavior data to provide customized premiums and are gaining popularity.
• However, overcoming supply chain challenges takes time, so they are likely to remain in 2025.
• The company already has 50 Level 4 autonomous trucks operating in the Southwestern United States.
• Self-driving cars are considered safer since they can sense their environment and operate safely within it, eliminating factors such as human error and driver fatigue.
• According to this regulation, starting from 2024, the following features become compulsory.
• Alongside established technologies like AI and big data analytics, the industry is also embracing the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain for diverse applications.

What impact do connected cars have on the automotive market?

With EV makers in China engaging in a price war due to declining demand, Chinese brands with strong hybrid presently are gaining popularity. A few hybrid models are priced below their EV and ICE counterparts, attracting Chinese consumers to hybrids, especially plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and extended-range hybrid (EREV) models. Further, its Craidlr ATX-G gateways are integral to the surface temperature & vibration monitoring solution, catering to diverse automotive testing needs. These gateways, combined with advanced transducers, facilitate real-time data collection. The Global Startup Heat Map below highlights the global distribution of the 4800+ exemplary startups & scaleups that we analyzed for this research. Created through the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, the Heat Map reveals high startup activity in the US, Europe, and India.

Automakers need to redesign their vehicles or should look for other chip options available. The AI in Automotive industry in 2026 is evolving as AI, autonomous technologies, and software-defined vehicles reshape global mobility systems. This AI in Automotive Market Report examines the trends and technologies driving vehicle intelligence, operational efficiency, safety advancement, and data-driven mobility innovation.

News + Insights

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. These sensors measure distances, identify obstructions, and capture crucial traffic and road condition data. When paired with high-resolution cameras, these tools allow self-driving cars to identify objects, lane markers, and even pedestrians with unprecedented precision. While full autonomy is still on the horizon, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are already transforming how we drive. In 2025, the focus will be enhancing ADAS features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and more. While some regions already allow limited AV testing and deployment, 2025 will likely see a more transparent legal framework surrounding autonomous driving technology.

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. From supply chain optimization and manufacturing to personalized driving experiences and smart routing, advanced AI systems and real-time data analysis enable it all. By 2027, the global automotive AI market is expected to grow from its 2022 valuation of USD 2.3 billion to USD 7.0 billion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.1%.

This ensures precise planning, reduces downtime, and enhances efficiency in assembly operations. This decision also highlights a broader trend toward diversification in battery production hubs. With the Middle East emerging as a significant player in the EV supply chain, manufacturers must adapt their strategies to seize these new opportunities.

Tree Map reveals the Impact of the Top 10 Automotive Industry Trends

• For instance, Audi and BMW vehicles exchanged sensor data, including camera feeds, during 5G-V2X Direct demonstrations in Berlin.
• While the market for cars valued below $80k is expected to remain flat through 2031, the luxury car market is predicted to grow at up to 14% CAGR.
• Factories equipped with IoT-enabled devices and machine learning capabilities are emerging as the backbone of next-generation automotive production.
• The integrated powertrain segment is likely to hold ~60-65% of the total e-powertrain market in 2025.
• Its solution, carSECURITY, provides organizations with a complete cybersecurity process landscape.

Automotive semiconductors and sensor fusion enhance safety, efficiency, and intelligence. This approach ensures our reports provide reliable, actionable insights into the automobile innovation ecosystem while highlighting startups driving technological advancements in the industry. This process enables us to identify the most impactful and innovative trends in the automobile industry. The latest technology in automobile industry have revolutionized the way vehicles are designed, manufactured, and sold, and the vehicles themselves have become much more than a means of transport. A recent survey reveals automotive companies have product development and launch cycles shorter than 18 months.

♻️ Circular Economy Principles and Eco-Friendly Production

Owing to these advancements, the global SDV market is set to reach USD 3.3 trillion by 2034, growing at 31.2% annually. Also, GPS and V2X connectivity improve fleet distribution and service reliability. Telematics and IoT sensors monitor vehicle condition and enable predictive maintenance. For instance, Planet42 extends access to underbanked consumers in South Africa and Mexico. Additionally, the startup offers features such as platooning algorithms for safe and efficient vehicle grouping.

How is technology improving the auto industry?

This pushes automakers to invest heavily in electric drivetrains, recycled materials, and circular economy practices. Consumers increasingly demand eco-friendly options, influencing market offerings. Expect more biodegradable components, renewable energy-powered factories, and battery recycling programs. The trend is irreversible and will accelerate innovation while challenging legacy ICE-dependent supply chains. 5G connectivity unlocks ultra-low latency communication, enabling real-time vehicle-to-everything (V2X) interactions. This enhances autonomous driving capabilities, traffic management, and safety features.

Udelv manufactures Self Driving Last Mile Delivery Vehicles

It uses Tenstorrent’s Tensix NPU core to deliver up to 250 tera operations per second (TOPS) for efficient AI processing. The Global Startup Heat Map showcases the distribution of 6000+ exemplary startups and scaleups analyzed using the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform. It highlights high startup activity in Western Europe and the United States, followed by India.

• Consumers increasingly demand eco-friendly options, influencing market offerings.
• From electrification to IoT connectivity, these shifts are changing the way cars are manufactured, sold, repaired, and driven.
• Increased government focus on charging networks will be needed to support the expanding EV fleet.
• For instance, Qualcomm states that C-V2X allows vehicles to communicate with other vehicles, with infrastructure (V2I), and with vulnerable road users.
• Regulatory frameworks like UNECE WP.29, effective from last year, mandate stringent cybersecurity measures to drive compliance-related investments.
• This vehicle’s design prioritizes driver safety and comfort, featuring a central driving position and panoramic vision for enhanced visibility.

The automotive parts market continues to grow

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%. Telematics adoption in logistics and transportation industries is driven by features such as real-time tracking, driver behavior analysis, and fuel consumption reduction. hidden car history revealed by VIN Join us today and access AMS’s wealth of global news, insights, intelligence and content, and to make valuable connections with your peers from across the automotive industry. Volkswagen is using digital twin technology at its Wolfsburg plant to simulate and optimise production processes for the Tayron SUV.

The US-based startup Procon Analytics leverages big data to offer a solution for automotive finance. The solution captures millions of data points in real time and analyzes them to enable lenders to instantly assess and reduce risk. This allows Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) dealers to expand their businesses and extend credit to high-risk customers. Further, this also offers software solutions for fleet and asset tracking as well as connected cars.

What are the latest automotive industry trends in 2024?

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.

• The startup also offers Leap EasyTrack, a vehicle tracking solution that allows for quick and easy self-installation, making it simple to transfer between vehicles without downtime.
• Improved range, faster charging times and enhanced performance are making EVs not just environmentally conscious choices, but compelling alternatives for everyday use.
• A recent survey reveals automotive companies have product development and launch cycles shorter than 18 months.
• In 2025, the focus will be enhancing ADAS features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and more.
• However there are huge opportunities for the industry in the shift to software-defined vehicles and autonomous driving.
• It highlights high startup activity in Western Europe and the United States, followed by India.
• The automotive industry is one of the most severely affected by supply chain disruptions.
• 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.
• Startups are developing big data solutions to help manufacturers and related industries streamline operations and maximize profits.

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.

Also, EV charging infrastructure requires strong cybersecurity, as attackers target charging stations for data theft or service disruption. The startup also operates PartSmart, a real-time parts ordering platform that connects insurers, workshops, fleet owners, and suppliers. The platform enables visibility across the entire claims cycle and supports both OEM and aftermarket sourcing.

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.

With zero emissions, low noise, and a range of up to 400 km, FALAK offers a sustainable urban mobility solution. The startup emphasizes comfort with electric doors, extended safety features, and panoramic views from all seats. 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. 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.

• Some countries (and California) have even committed to phasing out all new sales of combustion engine vehicles over the next few decades.
• At the same time, governments and companies view subscriptions as a pathway to scale EV adoption without heavy upfront investments.
• The startup emphasizes comfort with electric doors, extended safety features, and panoramic views from all seats.
• After the pandemic, we developed a habit of shifting all requirements to online methods, and so do goes with the automobile industry.
• The U.S. and China trade war has also influenced the search for alternative sourcing options.
• Searches for “autonomous driving” have increased by over 1,029% over the past 10 years.
• Ultra-fast charging infrastructure minimizes downtime by offering hundreds of kilometers of range in just minutes.
• The platform also erases personally identifiable information (PII) from vehicle systems to maintain privacy.
• Moreover, automakers reduce tailpipe emissions, cities improve air quality, and governments reduce fossil fuel dependence.

Toyota continues to emphasize hybrids as a critical part of its electrification strategy. Let’s have a closer look at the top automotive trends poised to dominate the landscape in 2025. Supplemented by the categorisation of our experts, a clear picture emerges of where the industry stands – and where it should develop in order to remain fit for the future. Automakers are also adopting hyper-personalized features to offer customized experiences through infotainment systems, user profiles, and real-time navigation updates.

The rise of Chinese EV manufacturers

Additionally, Europe and the U.S. have sought to bolster their chip and semiconductor production with the ‘European Chips Act’ and the ‘CHIPS and Science Act’, respectively. Whilst these acts have been active for some years now, the landscape has not changed drastically. Until these efforts bear fruit, the industry will need to focus on mitigating risks and prioritising demand effectively. Whilst the U.S. may be bucking it, there is certainly a global trend towards a more sustainability-forward manufacturing scene. However, as with all complex bodies of rulesets, differing rules and regulatory mandates across the globe make it easier for international automakers to fall foul of compliance. Ransomware-related costs in the automotive industry skyrocketed from $74.7 million to $209.6 million in just the first half of 2023.

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 trends driving the automotive sector in 2025

Examples are bikes, scooters, and mopeds, as well as the electric versions of these vehicles. The chip shortage is proving to be costly for the industry with many auto manufacturers shutting down plants due to low supply. Increasing battery efficiency as well as EV charging infrastructure can speed up adoption. Because of this growth, it’s estimated that there are more than 40 million electric cars on the road. Espite growing inventory levels, new vehicle prices continue to rise, reaching a record average transaction price of $49,507 in December 2022. The best-selling vehicle in the US, the Ford F-Series pickup, has an average price of $66,451, placing it in the luxury category.

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).

While fully autonomous vehicles (AVs) are not yet standard on the roads, significant advancements are being made in 2025 toward realizing the vision of driverless cars. Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and others are working tirelessly to refine the technology, which includes machine learning, computer vision, and lidar (light detection and ranging) systems. The upcoming automotive industry trends refer to evolving changes in patterns within the sector that influence vehicle design, production, marketing, and usage. Technological advancements, along with changing consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and global economic conditions, are driving these trends.

It integrates electric drivetrains, transforming existing vehicles into sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to new EVs. The kit maintains original vehicle features to ensure a seamless transition and familiar driving experience. Indian startup Starkenn develops AI-powered ADAS to enhance vehicle safety and reduce road accidents. Its product suite includes a collision warning system, Starkenn Safe which uses radar to detect obstacles and alert drivers of potential collisions.