Automotive Chassis Market Trends

Introduction

In 2022, the automobile chassis market is undergoing a significant transformation, which is caused by the confluence of macroeconomic factors, such as rapid technological developments, stringent regulations, and changing consumer preferences. The rise of electric and self-driving vehicles is driving manufacturers to develop chassis that are safer, more comfortable, and more sustainable. Regulations are increasingly focused on reducing emissions and improving safety, requiring companies to adapt their strategies accordingly. Moreover, changing consumer preferences, such as the increasing demand for a bespoke and connected vehicle experience, are also influencing chassis development. These macroeconomic factors are crucial for the strategic success of all the companies in the automobile chassis market, as they navigate the increasingly competitive landscape, respond to market demands and regulatory requirements, and drive innovation.

Top Trends

1. Electrification of Chassis Systems
   During the course of the development of the chassis, the drive towards the e-mobility is causing a major change in the materials used, and the companies are now focusing on developing new lightweight materials. In 2022, the global market for EVs grew by 50 percent, which is why the manufacturers have been forced to adapt the chassis to the integration of the batteries. This will probably lead to more modular chassis, which will be easier to adapt to different vehicle concepts. The resulting weight reduction and increased range are crucial for the competitiveness of the EVs.
2. Integration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
   The ADAS systems are becoming an integral part of the chassis systems of modern vehicles, and are becoming a means of enhancing both safety and the driving experience. The chassis suppliers Continental, for example, are investing heavily in the integration of sensors in the chassis. The worldwide market for ADAS is expected to be worth more than $US30 billion in 2022, indicating a high level of demand. This development will lead to closer collaboration between chassis suppliers and technology companies, and to changes in production processes and the need for new skills in engineering.
3. Sustainability and Eco-friendly Materials
   The chassis are being made of materials that are sustainable and sustainable. Schaeffler has initiated projects for using recycled materials to contribute to the global goal of sustainable development. By 2022, consumers will have a preference for sustainable products and will make their purchases accordingly. This will probably lead to a circular economy in the industry, influencing supply chains and material sourcing strategies.
4. Modular Chassis Architecture
   Modular chassis architectures are increasingly being used, enabling vehicle manufacturers to build many different vehicles on the same platform. This trend is spearheaded by companies such as Magna, which are able to offer their customers both greater flexibility and lower costs. In 2022, 40 per cent of all new vehicle platforms will be based on these architectures. This approach is expected to speed up production and allow faster responses to market demands.
5. Increased Focus on Lightweighting
   Among the materials for the chassis, Aisin Seiki has been developing the most advanced lightweight material, which has been able to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. The use of such materials increased by 15 percent in the automobile industry in 2022. This is expected to increase further as manufacturers strive to meet stricter regulations on emissions. This trend will have a great impact on the design and manufacturing processes.
6. Smart Chassis Technologies
   Smart technology is increasingly being integrated into chassis systems, enhancing performance and safety. Hyundai Mobis is at the forefront of this development, with its real-time chassis data solutions. By 2022, the smart vehicle market is forecast to grow by a CAGR of 25 per cent, which is expected to boost the industry’s prospects. This will result in increased R&D expenditure and a shift in strategic priorities.
7. Collaboration with Tech Companies
   The chassis manufacturers are increasingly collaborating with the IT industry to enhance the performance of their vehicles. Gestamp, for example, has entered into a partnership with a number of IT start-ups, which will help to integrate artificial intelligence into the design of its chassis. In 2022, sixty per cent of the companies in the car industry were involved in such projects. This trend is expected to accelerate the development of the next generation of chassis and to alter the competition in the industry.
8. Regulatory Compliance and Safety Standards
   Stricter regulations and higher safety standards have influenced the design and manufacture of chassis. CIE Automotive has responded by improving its product range. In 2022, 80 per cent of manufacturers reported higher compliance costs. This trend is likely to lead to increased investment in safety technology, resulting in higher production costs.
9. Customization and Personalization Trends
   The demand for personalization is also reflected in the chassis, where manufacturers offer tailor-made solutions. Benteler has developed a chassis that can be adapted to suit the individual preferences of its customers. In 2022, some 55% of consumers said they were interested in a personalized vehicle. This trend is expected to lead to innovation in the production process and to a change in the supply chain and customer-relationship strategy.
10. Digital Twin Technology in Chassis Development
    It is a revolution in chassis development. Using this data, Ligier Automotive has been able to improve the accuracy of its designs. In 2022, the digital twin market in the automobile sector was worth five billion dollars, a reflection of its growing importance. The digital twin will have a major influence on the development of the chassis, reducing the time taken to bring a new model to market.

Conclusion: Navigating the Automotive Chassis Landscape

In 2022, the car chassis market will be characterized by a high degree of competition and a considerable degree of fragmentation. The market will be divided between the old and the new players. The regional trends will mainly be towards sustainable development and advanced manufacturing, which will force suppliers to adapt their strategies accordingly. The old players will focus on their established supply chains and brand loyalty, while the new ones will rely on innovation through AI, automation and flexible production. In this market evolution, the ability to integrate sustainable development and advanced manufacturing will be decisive for leadership. Suppliers will have to pay attention to these two major capabilities in order to remain competitive and to meet the rising requirements of consumers and the regulatory environment.