Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Automotive PCB Innovation
The market for printed wiring boards for cars is in the midst of a revolution, resulting from the rapid introduction of new technology, the stricter legal framework and the increasing demand for smarter and safer cars. The main players, including the car manufacturers, IT service companies and new AI start-ups, are waging a war for market leadership by deploying the most advanced solutions, such as machine learning-based data analysis, IoT integration and green IT solutions. In addition, they are also using smart data to make their vehicles smarter, safer and more economical. The car manufacturers are focusing on improving the performance and safety of vehicles by developing new printed wiring board designs, while the IT service companies are focusing on reducing costs and improving the efficiency of the supply chain. The new AI start-ups are disrupting the traditional way of thinking with their advanced automation and data analysis capabilities. Local manufacturing and green IT solutions are the preferred strategy, especially in the Asia-Pacific and North American regions. This dynamic market requires a deep understanding of the technology-based differentiators that will shape market positions and market shares in the coming years.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
The supplier of the vehicle-mounted circuit board can provide a comprehensive solution for the entire spectrum of PCBs, integrating different types of technology to meet different customer needs.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Infineon Technologies Batam |
Strong semiconductor expertise |
Power management solutions |
Asia-Pacific |
| STMicroelectronics N.V. |
Diverse product portfolio |
Microcontrollers and sensors |
Global |
| Samsung Electro-Mechanics |
Advanced manufacturing capabilities |
High-density interconnect PCBs |
Asia, Europe |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These companies focus on specialization and innovation in the field of the PCB market for the automobile, and offer specialized products and solutions.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Meiko Electronics Co. Ltd. |
Expertise in multilayer PCBs |
High-performance PCBs |
Asia, North America |
| KCE Electronics Ltd. |
Custom PCB solutions |
Automotive and industrial applications |
Asia |
| TTM Technologies |
Rapid prototyping capabilities |
Complex PCB manufacturing |
North America, Asia |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
The equipment and facilities necessary for the production of printed circuit boards are supplied by a group of vendors.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Amitron Corp. |
Focus on quick-turn PCB services |
Prototype and low-volume production |
North America |
| CMK Corp. |
High-quality manufacturing standards |
Automotive-grade PCBs |
Asia, Europe |
| Chin Poon Industrial |
Cost-effective solutions |
Mass production of PCBs |
Asia |
| Lumax Industries Limited |
Strong automotive partnerships |
Integrated automotive solutions |
India |
| Tripod Technology |
Innovative design capabilities |
High-frequency PCBs |
Asia, North America |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- Aptiv (US): Specializes in ADAS and connectivity solutions. Recently, it has won a contract with a major car manufacturer to integrate its PCBs in its electric vehicles. It has challenged the established vendors with its innovative designs that enhance vehicle safety and connectivity.
- Rohm (Japan) : Focuses on power management ICs and automobile grade PCBs. It has a close partnership with a major EV manufacturer to develop high-efficiency power modules, combining the expertise of a semiconductor manufacturer and a PCB manufacturer.
- Sierra Wireless (Canada) – This company, which specializes in wireless solutions for the automobile, has recently launched a new line of automobile PCBs that are designed for telematics and V2X communication. It is positioning itself as a competitor to the usual vehicle board manufacturers and putting an emphasis on connectivity and data management.
- The Chinese EV-PCB industry is a relatively new industry, but it is also an industry that is gaining momentum. It is a low-cost solution and a rapid prototype service, and it has recently increased its production capacity to meet the needs of EV startups, which can complement the advantages of established companies.
Regional Trends: In 2024, there is a strong tendency to use advanced PCBs in electric and self-driving vehicles, especially in North America and Asia-Pacific. In 2024, companies will focus more on integrating smart technology and IoT capabilities into their PCBs. Also, there is a trend towards low-cost and low-power, and there is an urgent need for green and cost-effective solutions.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- NXP Semiconductors and Infineon Technologies have entered into a partnership to develop advanced printed circuit boards for the automobile, with the aim of improving the safety and the interconnection of vehicles and thus strengthening their position in the growing market for electric vehicles.
- Earlier this year, Flex Ltd. acquired a majority stake in a leading PCB manufacturer, enabling it to expand its capabilities for use in the growing field of automobile electronics.
- A new product development alliance between Samsung and LG has been formed to meet the growing demand for high-frequency printed circuit boards for automobiles.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Biometric Self-Boarding |
NXP Semiconductors, Infineon Technologies |
NXP has integrated biometric sensors into its printed circuit boards for cars, which increases security and convenience. Infineon, with its long experience in security microcontrollers, is developing the field of biometrics. It has entered into cooperation with the largest car manufacturers. |
| AI-Powered Ops Mgmt |
Texas Instruments, STMicroelectronics |
Texas instruments offers its embedded systems with artificial intelligence for the processing of real-time data. ST has developed an artificial intelligence for the automobile which optimizes the vehicle's performance. |
| Border Control |
Qualcomm, Broadcom |
Qualcomm's car-boards are fitted with advanced communication technology, enabling them to control the border between vehicles and the central control system, and to communicate with the central control system. The focus of Broadcom's solutions is on the security of the connection, which is crucial for the control of the border between vehicles and the central control system. |
| Sustainability |
Rohm Semiconductor, Murata Manufacturing |
ROHME is a pioneer in the development of new materials and production methods for printed wiring boards that are both highly effective and also less harmful to the environment. Murata supplies energy-saving components that help to make cars more sustainable. |
| Passenger Experience |
Bosch, Continental |
The e-mobility systems, which are integrated into the printed circuit boards, provide the passengers with a better service and improve the quality of their lives. The Continental printed circuit boards in the automobiles, which support the ADAS, significantly increase the safety and comfort of the passengers. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Automotive PCB Landscape
The automobile PCB market in 2024 is characterized by an intense competition and significant fragmentation. The share of both old and new players is disputed. In terms of geography, the focus is on the development of advanced manufacturing and sustainable solutions, especially in North America and Europe, where the regulatory environment is a driver for innovation. Strategic positioning of the suppliers is based on the use of artificial intelligence and automation to increase the efficiency of production and the quality of products. As the market evolves, the ability to offer flexible solutions to the various needs of customers is becoming increasingly important. It is likely that the companies that are able to combine advanced technology with a sustainable approach to the market will be the leaders in this rapidly changing environment. It is therefore important to align strategies accordingly.
