Automotive Engine Components Market Outlook, 2029

The automotive industry is a dynamic ecosystem, constantly evolving with technological advancements and consumer demands. At the core of every vehicle lies its engine, often referred to as the heart of motion. Behind the seamless operation of an engine are intricate components meticulously designed to deliver power, efficiency, and reliability. The automotive engine components industry encompasses a wide array of parts that contribute to the functioning of an engine. From pistons and crankshafts to camshafts and valves, each component plays a crucial role in the combustion process, translating fuel into mechanical energy.

Several global players dominate the automotive engine components market, including Bosch, Continental AG, Denso Corporation, and Mahle GmbH, among others. These companies specialize in manufacturing components such as fuel injection systems, engine control units, turbochargers, and ignition systems, catering to both traditional internal combustion engines and emerging electric powertrains.

The market dynamics of the engine components industry are influenced by factors such as vehicle production volumes, technological advancements, regulatory standards, and consumer preferences. With the growing emphasis on emissions reduction and fuel efficiency, there is a rising demand for lightweight and eco-friendly engine components. Additionally, the shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles is reshaping the landscape, prompting manufacturers to innovate and adapt to new propulsion technologies.

According to the research report, the market is anticipated to cross USD 320 Billion by 2029, increasing from USD 242.34 Billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow with 5.08% CAGR by 2024-29. Advancements in materials science, manufacturing processes, and digital technologies are driving innovation within the automotive engine components industry. Lightweight materials such as aluminum alloys, titanium, and composite materials are increasingly used to enhance fuel efficiency and performance while reducing emissions. Furthermore, the integration of electronic components and sensors enables real-time monitoring and optimization of engine performance.

Advanced fuel injection systems, variable valve timing mechanisms, and turbocharger technologies are examples of innovations aimed at improving power output and efficiency. The automotive industry is at a pivotal juncture, undergoing a transformative shift towards electrification, connectivity, and autonomy. As electric vehicles (EVs) gain prominence, the role of traditional engine components will evolve, giving rise to new opportunities and challenges. While the demand for internal combustion engine components may decline in the long term, there will still be a significant market for hybrid vehicles and internal combustion engine (ICE) optimizations.

Moreover, the electrification of vehicles will create demand for new components such as electric motors, power electronics, and battery management systems. Additionally, the emergence of autonomous driving technologies will drive demand for sophisticated engine components capable of supporting advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous functionalities.

Market Drivers

• Emission Regulations and Sustainability Initiatives: To curb pollution and combat climate change, regulators are enforcing increasingly stringent emission standards, prompting automakers to adopt cleaner and more efficient engine technologies. This drive towards sustainability is pushing the development of engine components that enable improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and compliance with regulatory requirements. As a result, manufacturers are investing in research and development to innovate new materials, designs, and technologies that enhance the environmental performance of vehicles.
• Technological Advancements and Electrification: The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the rise of electrification and advanced propulsion technologies. Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles are gaining traction, driven by factors such as government incentives, advancements in battery technology, and shifting consumer preferences. This shift towards electrification is reshaping the landscape of engine components, with traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) components gradually being replaced or augmented by electric drivetrain components such as electric motors, power electronics, and battery management systems. As a result, manufacturers in the engine components industry are investing in research and development to adapt to the evolving needs of electric and hybrid vehicles, while also optimizing ICE components for improved efficiency and performance.

Market Challenges

• Cost Pressures and Supply Chain Disruptions: As manufacturers strive to meet regulatory requirements and incorporate advanced technologies into their vehicles, there is an increased demand for high-quality components at competitive prices. However, achieving cost efficiency while maintaining quality standards is a complex task, especially amidst volatile raw material prices, fluctuating exchange rates, and supply chain disruptions. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of global supply chains, leading to production delays and shortages of critical components. To mitigate these challenges, manufacturers need to optimize their supply chains, invest in resilient manufacturing processes, and collaborate closely with suppliers to ensure a steady flow of components.
• Transition to Electric Vehicles and Technological Adaptation: While EVs offer numerous environmental and performance benefits, they require a fundamentally different set of components compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This transition necessitates significant investments in research and development, retooling of manufacturing facilities, and upskilling of the workforce to adapt to new technologies and production methods. Moreover, there are challenges related to infrastructure development, battery recycling, and consumer acceptance of EVs, which can impact the pace of electrification and the demand for engine components. Manufacturers must navigate these challenges strategically, balancing their investments in ICE optimization with preparations for the electrified future of the automotive industry.

Market Trends

• Integration of Advanced Materials and Digital Technologies: A prominent trend in the automotive engine components industry is the integration of advanced materials and digital technologies to enhance performance, efficiency, and reliability. Manufacturers are increasingly using lightweight materials such as aluminum alloys, carbon fiber composites, and high-strength steels to reduce weight and improve fuel economy without compromising on durability. Furthermore, the integration of sensors, actuators, and control systems enables real-time monitoring and optimization of engine performance, leading to greater efficiency and reliability. These trends are driving innovations in materials science, additive manufacturing, and connectivity solutions, paving the way for smarter and more sustainable engine components.
• Focus on Modular and Scalable Solutions: Another trend shaping the automotive engine components industry is the focus on modular and scalable solutions that offer flexibility and adaptability across different vehicle platforms and powertrain configurations. As automakers seek to streamline their production processes and maximize economies of scale, there is a growing demand for standardized components that can be easily integrated into various vehicle architectures. Manufacturers are responding to this trend by developing modular engine components such as flexible engine control units, adaptable fuel injection systems, and interchangeable drivetrain components. By offering modular and scalable solutions, manufacturers can reduce development costs, accelerate time to market, and better meet the evolving needs of automakers and consumers alike.

The connecting rod is leading in the automotive engine components market due to its critical role in transmitting force from the piston to the crankshaft, thereby directly influencing engine performance and durability.

The connecting rod serves as a vital link between the piston and the crankshaft in an internal combustion engine, converting the reciprocating motion of the piston into rotational motion of the crankshaft. This fundamental function makes the connecting rod a cornerstone of engine design, directly impacting performance, efficiency, and durability. One of the primary reasons for the connecting rod's prominence in the automotive engine components market is its critical role in managing the forces generated during the combustion process. As the piston moves up and down within the cylinder, it exerts significant forces on the connecting rod, which must withstand immense pressure and stress without deformation or failure.

Therefore, connecting rods are engineered to precise specifications using high-strength materials such as steel or aluminum alloys, ensuring robustness and reliability under extreme operating conditions. Moreover, the design and configuration of the connecting rod play a crucial role in optimizing engine performance. Variations in rod length, material composition, and geometry can impact factors such as engine displacement, compression ratio, and power output. Automotive manufacturers and engine designers meticulously engineer connecting rods to achieve a delicate balance between strength, weight, and stiffness, thereby enhancing overall engine efficiency and performance.

In addition to its mechanical function, the connecting rod also contributes to the smooth operation and longevity of the engine. Properly designed and manufactured connecting rods reduce vibration, minimize frictional losses, and maintain precise alignment between the piston and crankshaft bearings. This helps to prolong the life of engine components, reduce maintenance requirements, and enhance the overall driving experience for vehicle owners. Furthermore, advancements in materials science, manufacturing techniques, and computational modeling have enabled continuous improvement in connecting rod design and performance.

Lightweight materials such as titanium alloys and carbon fiber composites offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, allowing for further weight reduction without sacrificing structural integrity. Meanwhile, advanced machining and forging processes enable the production of connecting rods with intricate geometries and tight tolerances, enhancing precision and reliability.

Passenger vehicles are leading in the automotive engine components market due to their higher production volumes and diverse range of engine types, requiring a wide array of components to meet varying performance, efficiency, and emissions requirements.

Passenger vehicles hold a dominant position in the automotive engine components market primarily because of their sheer production volumes and the diverse range of engine types found in this segment. As the most common type of vehicle on the road, passenger vehicles encompass a broad spectrum of models, from compact hatchbacks to luxury sedans and SUVs, each with its unique engine configuration and performance characteristics. With millions of passenger vehicles produced and sold globally each year, the demand for engine components such as pistons, crankshafts, camshafts, valves, and fuel injection systems is substantial.

This high volume of production creates economies of scale for manufacturers, driving down costs and increasing competitiveness within the engine components market. Furthermore, the diverse nature of passenger vehicle engines contributes to the wide array of engine components required to meet varying performance, efficiency, and emissions requirements. Passenger vehicles are powered by a range of engine types, including traditional internal combustion engines (gasoline and diesel), hybrid powertrains, and electric propulsion systems. Each of these engine types necessitates specific components tailored to its unique operating principles and technological characteristics.

For instance, traditional internal combustion engines may require components optimized for fuel efficiency and emissions reduction, such as advanced fuel injection systems, variable valve timing mechanisms, and turbochargers. On the other hand, hybrid vehicles demand components that seamlessly integrate electric motors with internal combustion engines, such as battery management systems, power electronics, and regenerative braking systems.

Similarly, electric vehicles rely on specialized components such as electric motors, inverters, and high-voltage wiring harnesses to power the drivetrain.The prominence of passenger vehicles in the automotive engine components market is also driven by consumer preferences, regulatory standards, and technological advancements. Consumers increasingly prioritize factors such as fuel efficiency, performance, and environmental friendliness when choosing a vehicle, prompting automakers to invest in advanced engine technologies and components that deliver on these fronts. Additionally, stringent emission regulations and fuel economy standards worldwide compel automakers to continuously innovate and improve their engine designs, further driving demand for advanced engine components.

Gasoline vehicles are leading in the automotive engine components market due to their widespread adoption globally, supported by established infrastructure, affordability, and technological advancements in gasoline engine technology.

Gasoline vehicles hold a prominent position in the automotive engine components market primarily due to their extensive adoption worldwide and the well-established infrastructure supporting gasoline-powered vehicles. Gasoline engines have been the dominant propulsion technology for passenger vehicles for decades, owing to their affordability, familiarity, and widespread availability of gasoline fueling stations. This mass-market appeal has driven high production volumes for gasoline vehicles, consequently creating a substantial demand for engine components tailored to gasoline engine technology. Over the years, gasoline engines have undergone significant improvements in terms of efficiency, performance, and emissions reduction.

Innovations such as direct fuel injection, turbocharging, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation have made modern gasoline engines more powerful, fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly. These advancements have not only enhanced the overall performance of gasoline vehicles but have also increased the complexity and demand for specialized engine components. Moreover, gasoline vehicles benefit from a well-established infrastructure of fueling stations, making gasoline readily available to consumers in most regions around the world.

This infrastructure supports the widespread adoption of gasoline vehicles and fosters consumer confidence in gasoline as a fuel source, further solidifying the market dominance of gasoline engine technology. Additionally, the affordability of gasoline vehicles compared to alternative propulsion technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs) or hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) makes them a preferred choice for many consumers, especially in regions where EV charging infrastructure is still developing.

Furthermore, gasoline vehicles offer a versatile platform that can accommodate various vehicle types, from compact hatchbacks to pickup trucks and SUVs, catering to diverse consumer preferences and market segments. This versatility drives demand for a wide range of engine components tailored to different vehicle applications and performance requirements, further bolstering the market dominance of gasoline engine technology.

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are leading in the automotive engine components market due to their direct integration into vehicle manufacturing processes, providing tailored solutions, quality assurance, and brand trust to automakers.

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) hold a dominant position in the automotive engine components market primarily because of their direct integration into the vehicle manufacturing process. As suppliers of components directly installed in vehicles during assembly, OEMs provide automakers with a wide range of engine components that are specifically designed, engineered, and manufactured to meet the exacting standards and specifications of each vehicle model. This close collaboration between OEMs and automakers allows for seamless integration of components into the overall vehicle architecture, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and compatibility.

OEMs work closely with automakers during the design and development phases to understand their specific needs, preferences, and performance targets, thereby customizing engine components to fit seamlessly into the vehicle's overall design and engineering objectives. This level of customization and collaboration enables OEMs to offer differentiated solutions that address the diverse range of engine configurations, powertrain options, and performance characteristics demanded by automakers and consumers alike. Moreover, OEMs play a vital role in ensuring the quality and reliability of engine components supplied to automakers.

With stringent quality control measures, advanced testing procedures, and adherence to industry standards and regulations, OEMs uphold high standards of product excellence and consistency across their component portfolios. This commitment to quality assurance instills confidence in automakers regarding the reliability and durability of OEM-supplied engine components, thereby fostering long-term partnerships and brand trust between OEMs and automakers. Furthermore, OEMs leverage their expertise in research, development, and innovation to stay at the forefront of technological advancements in the automotive industry.

By investing in cutting-edge technologies, materials science, and manufacturing processes, OEMs continuously improve the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of engine components, driving innovation and differentiation in the market. This relentless pursuit of innovation enables OEMs to anticipate market trends, meet evolving customer demands, and stay ahead of competitors in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Internal combustion engines (ICE) are leading in the automotive engine components market due to their widespread adoption in vehicles worldwide, supported by established infrastructure, affordability, and continuous advancements in ICE technology.

Internal combustion engines (ICE) hold a dominant position in the automotive engine components market primarily because of their extensive adoption in vehicles worldwide. ICE technology has been the cornerstone of automotive propulsion for over a century, offering a reliable and versatile power source for a wide range of vehicle types and applications.

From passenger cars and trucks to motorcycles and off-road vehicles, ICEs power the majority of vehicles on the road today, contributing to their significant market share in the engine components market. Gasoline and diesel fuels are readily available at fueling stations in most regions, providing consumers with convenient access to refueling options for their ICE-powered vehicles.

This widespread availability of fossil fuels supports the continued adoption of ICE technology and fosters consumer confidence in its reliability and convenience, further solidifying its market position. Moreover, ICEs are favored for their affordability compared to alternative propulsion technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs) or hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). The relatively lower production costs and mature manufacturing processes associated with ICE technology make ICE-powered vehicles more accessible to a broader range of consumers, especially in emerging markets where EV infrastructure is still developing.

This affordability factor contributes to the sustained demand for ICEs and their associated engine components in the automotive market. Furthermore, continuous advancements in ICE technology have contributed to the ongoing dominance of ICEs in the engine components market. Over the years, ICEs have undergone significant improvements in terms of efficiency, performance, and emissions reduction, driven by innovations such as direct fuel injection, turbocharging, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation. These advancements have made modern ICEs more fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly, and responsive, further enhancing their appeal to consumers and automakers alike.

In addition to gasoline and diesel ICEs, advancements in alternative fuels such as biofuels, natural gas, and ethanol have expanded the versatility of ICE technology, offering additional options for reducing emissions and dependency on fossil fuels. This adaptability of ICEs to various fuel types and propulsion configurations reinforces their leading position in the engine components market, ensuring their relevance and significance in the evolving landscape of automotive propulsion.

Asia-Pacific is leading in the automotive engine components market due to its significant presence of major automotive manufacturers, growing vehicle production volumes, and favorable government policies supporting the automotive industry.

Asia-Pacific has emerged as a frontrunner in the automotive engine components market primarily because of its robust automotive manufacturing ecosystem, characterized by the presence of major automakers, growing vehicle production volumes, and supportive government policies. The region is home to some of the world's largest automotive manufacturers, including Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, and many others, which have established extensive manufacturing facilities across countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, and India. This concentration of automotive production facilities in Asia-Pacific drives a substantial demand for engine components, as every vehicle requires a myriad of components to power its engine and drivetrain.

Asia-Pacific accounts for a substantial portion of global vehicle production, with China being the world's largest automotive market and a major hub for vehicle manufacturing. The growing affluence of consumers, rapid urbanization, and increasing demand for personal mobility have fueled the expansion of the automotive market in Asia-Pacific, driving up vehicle production volumes and subsequently boosting the demand for engine components. Moreover, Asia-Pacific benefits from favorable government policies and incentives aimed at supporting the automotive industry's growth and development.

Many countries in the region offer tax incentives, subsidies, and infrastructure investments to attract automotive manufacturers and stimulate domestic production. Additionally, governments across Asia-Pacific are implementing stringent emission standards and fuel efficiency regulations, which drive the adoption of advanced engine technologies and components designed to meet these requirements. This regulatory environment creates a conducive market for engine component manufacturers, encouraging investment in research, development, and production capacity to meet the evolving needs of automakers.

Furthermore, Asia-Pacific's position as a global manufacturing hub for automotive components offers cost advantages and supply chain efficiencies, further bolstering its leadership in the engine components market. The region benefits from a skilled workforce advanced manufacturing capabilities, and a network of suppliers specializing in various engine components, enabling cost-effective production and timely delivery of components to automakers worldwide. This competitive advantage positions Asia-Pacific as a preferred destination for automotive engine component manufacturing and sourcing, driving its dominance in the global market.

• In 2023, Mahle is investing USD 65 million in its plant in Neuenstadt am Kocher, Germany, to expand production of pistons and piston pins for electric vehicles. The investment is expected to create 200 new jobs.
• In 2023, Cummins is partnering with Tata Power to develop and manufacture electric powertrains for commercial vehicles in India. The partnership will leverage Cummins' expertise in powertrain technology and Tata Power's expertise in electric vehicle infrastructure.
• In 2023, Automotive Components Europe (ACE) is acquiring Hutchinson's fuel system business for USD 1.31 billion. The acquisition will expand ACE's product portfolio and give it access to Hutchinson's expertise in fuel system technology.
• In 2023, Bosch has developed a new component type of fuel injector that is designed to improve emissions control. The company claims that the new injector can reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 50%.
• In 2023, Schaeffler has developed a new component type of engine bearing that is designed to reduce friction and improve fuel efficiency. The company claims that the new bearing can reduce fuel consumption by up to 2%.

Years considered in this report:

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in the report:

• Automotive Engine Components market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Engine components type:

• Connecting rod
• Cylinder Head
• Flywheel
• Valves
• Pistons
• Engine Block
• Others

By Vehicle type:

• Passenger Vehicles
• LCVs
• Two Wheelers

By Fuel type:

• Gasoline
• Diesel
• Electric vehicles.

By Sales Channel:

• OEM
• After Market

By Engine Type:

• internal combustion engines (ICE)
• Electric engines.

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. After this, the analysts made primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once the analysts acquired primary data, they started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Automotive Engine Components industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.