The Global Light Duty Vehicles Market is estimated to be valued at USD 87.2 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 188.2 Bn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.1% from 2024 to 2031. The market has been witnessing steady growth over the years and this will continue over the forecast period owing to rising disposable incomes and increasing preference for personal mobility solutions.

The light duty vehicles market is expected to show positive trends over the next decade. Governments across major markets are promoting electric vehicles which is slated to give a push to this segment. Further, shared mobility solutions are gaining traction worldwide which will also contribute to light commercial vehicles sales. However, the ongoing semiconductor shortage can negatively impact production volumes in the short term.

Market Driver - Growing Integration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in Vehicles to Enhance Safety and Driving Experience

Automakers are increasingly integrating advanced driver assistance systems in light duty vehicles to enhance safety and provide comfort to drivers. ADAS technologies use cameras, radars and other sensors to automate, adapt and enhance vehicle systems for various functions like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring and parking assist among others. As these systems take over certain vehicle control tasks from the driver to either assist or replace driver actions, it alleviates driver stress, reduces chances of accidents and improves the overall driving and ownership experience.

Many drivers find advanced features like adaptive cruise control extremely useful on highways and open roads as it automatically maintains a safe distance from vehicles ahead without constantly needing to brake or accelerate. This allows drivers to rest their foot and remain focused on the road ahead. Technologies like lane departure warning and lane keep assist that sense when a vehicle is straying from its lane are also gaining popularity. Such features alert inattentive drivers and guide the vehicle back on track, reducing the likelihood of accidents from distracted or drowsy driving. Automated emergency braking is another crucial system that most vehicles will be equipped with going forward. It uses sensors and cameras to detect if the driver fails to see a slower vehicle or stationary object ahead and applies brakes automatically to prevent or mitigate the impact of a collision. This can potentially save thousands of lives lost annually to accidents worldwide.

Market Driver - Rising Demand for Electric Vehicles (EVs) Due to Environmental Concerns and Government Incentives

There is significant rise in consumer awareness and preference for electric vehicles due to growing environmental concerns about pollution and climate change from traditionally fueled vehicles. While EVs had a modest presence earlier due to higher costs and range limitations, improved technology is making them more desirable and viable choice for mainstream buyers. EVs produce zero direct tailpipe emissions, therefore helping to reduce air pollution in cities and cutting down greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. Many drivers are attracted to the eco-friendly nature of EVs and wish to switch just for the environmental benefits alone. Aside from factors like rising fuel prices, this green sentiment is a major driver accelerating EV adoption rates across markets.

Several governments are also aggressively promoting EVs through purchase incentives and policies to meet climate goals. Financial incentives like tax credits and subsidies are making EVs very competitively priced compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. Some nations are planning to move towards electric mobility completely within the next decade or two by proposing deadline to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles. Several cities and states are offering special parking and driving privileges for EVs to appeal more buyers. Additionally, many local authorities have enacted emission regulations aimed at traditional vehicles in phases, which will eventually make ICE vehicles costlier to own and drive. All these governmental policies and initiatives are fueling faster consumer receptiveness towards electric mobility.

Market Challenge - Fluctuating Raw Material Prices Leading to Increased Vehicle Production Costs

Raw material prices strongly impact vehicle production costs as these materials constitute a major portion of total cost for automakers. Prices of metals like steel and aluminum that are primarily used in vehicle manufacturing have witnessed high volatility in recent years. Steel prices especially rose significantly between 2017 and 2018 due to reduced supply from China and higher demand. Aluminum prices too saw a sharp rise in the recent past and continue to fluctuate often. Sudden price surges strain automaker's profitability as raw material costs become difficult to account for accurately during vehicle pricing. It also disrupts Their supply chain dynamics and production planning. To maintain margins, additional costs often need to be passed on to customers making vehicles expensive. This price volatility poses a major challenge to automakers' cost control abilities and financial planning for new vehicle programs.

Market Opportunity- Technological Advancements Such as AI, IoT, and Blockchain in Vehicle Design and Operations

Emerging technologies are driving extensive innovation in automotive industry. Applications of AI, IoT and blockchain bring in both opportunities to enhance customer experience and challenges to integrate them seamlessly. AI and IoT based applications can make vehicle operations more efficient, convenient and safe. Advanced driver assistance systems, predictive maintenance. Usage-based insurance are some such areas. Blockchain's decentralized networks support building digital trust and transparency in processes like vehicle records verification, part supplies traceability benefitting OEMs, dealerships as well as consumers. These latest technologies also enable customized automated driving experiences. However, their complexities and developing nature demand significant investments and cross-industry collaborations for realization of full benefits. If standards are set and technologies integrated properly, they can transform future vehicles and mobility solutions.

Developing Fuel-efficient Powertrain Technologies: One of the biggest strategies adopted by market leaders like Toyota, Ford and General Motors has been developing fuel-efficient powertrain technologies to comply with stringent emission norms. For example, over the last decade, all major automakers have heavily invested in developing hybrid and electric powertrains. Toyota's successful Prius hybrid launched in 1997 set the benchmark. It captured a huge market share in the fuel-efficient car segment and still remains one of the best-selling hybrid models worldwide. Other automakers were forced to quickly follow suit with their own hybrid offerings. This shift to electrified powertrains helped automakers reduce average fleet emissions as emission regulations got tighter year-over-year.

Versatility: Another winning strategy has been developing versatile crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) that appeal to both personal and commercial buyers. Automakers like Honda, Nissan, Hyundai saw great success with versatile CUV models like CR-V, Rogue and Tucson respectively that offered car-like ride and handling along with good utility. Today, CUVs dominate light truck sales in the US and other markets. For example, CR-V's US sales grew from 118k in 2015 to over 160k units in 2019. This demonstrated consumer demand for versatile, car-like yet practical vehicles.

Focus on In-cabin Technology: Winning brands also focused on superior in-cabin technology to match consumer expectations. For instance, Ford's infotainment and driver-assist technology on the F-150 helped it dominate the full-size pickup truck segment for over 4 decades. Now, all automakers are rapidly upgrading their offerings with the latest connectivity, advanced driver assistance, premium audio among others to attract young buyers.

Insights, By Vehicle Type, Convenience of mobility drives demand for Passenger Cars

By Vehicle Type, Passenger Car is expected to contribute 43.2% in 2024 owing to its unparalleled convenience and flexibility. As cities grow more populated and commutes lengthen, personal mobility remains invaluable for many consumers. Passenger Cars comfortably accommodate most daily driving needs while allowing full control over routes and schedules. Their affordability relative to other options also widens their accessibility.

Cultural shifts towards solo commuting have further increased Passenger Car relevance. Younger generations in particular prefer the independence and freedom of owning their own vehicle. Evolving lifestyles that involve shuttleing between multiple activities also play to the strengths of Passenger Cars for accommodating personal possessions and family members. Ongoing technological improvements likewise augment the value proposition. Features like comfortable interiors, efficient powertrains, advanced connectivity and driver assistance systems substantially raise the Passenger Car experience. This helps justify their role as a preferred long-term personal investment over other modes of transport.

Insights, By Fuel Type, Dependence on Heavy Duty Applications Sustains Diesel's Market Dominance

By Fuel Type, Diesel is projected to contribute 72.3% in 2024 due to its predominance in heavy commercial applications. Tasks like long-haul freight, construction, agriculture and mining require the unparalleled torque and hauling capacity that Diesel delivers. It remains the benchmark fuel for maximizing payload capacity and operational uptime in punishing conditions.

Diesel also offers superior energy density versus gasoline, translating to longer ranges before refueling. This serves commercial operators' need to minimize downtime due to refueling. Well-established fueling infrastructures countrywide facilitate its widespread adoption. Supportive government policies on tax benefits and emissions regulations have historically given Diesel parity with or advantages over other fuels for commercial fleets.

While challenges exist from stringent emissions norms and the emphasis on carbon reduction, Diesel use is nevertheless entrenched in indispensable heavy industries for the foreseeable future. It will probably cede share in light-duty segments but retain a formidable foothold where heavy lifting and long runs take precedence over other considerations.

Insights, By Drivetrain, All-Wheel Drive, Drives the Need for Enhanced Traction and Vehicle Dynamics

By Drivetrain, Four-wheel Drive contributes the highest share due to fulfilling the rising demands for assured traction and optimized driving dynamics. As weather conditions become more extreme with climate change, vehicular needs have evolved for undeterred performance on slippery surfaces or off-road environments. Four-wheel Drive directly answers this call by distributing torque to all four wheels for uninterrupted momentum and directional control.

Safety and confidence remain top priorities for consumers, and Four-wheel Drive vehicles deliver just that. They inspire tranquility in drivers regardless of road conditions and provide a critical backstop in emergency maneuvers requiring rapid acceleration or redirection. The enhanced handling afforded is also a boon for recreational activities demanding optimal response.

Drivers concerned with more spirited performance increasingly value the linear feel and feedback of an All-wheel Drive system as well. Its optimized distribution of power engenders sharper turn-in, balanced weight transfer through bends, and sooner traction opening the door for exhilarating yet fuss-free driving dynamics. Technologies further refining its control logic only strengthen its value in performance-oriented segments.

Insights, By Vehicle Type, Convenience of mobility drives demand for Passenger Cars

By Vehicle Type, Passenger Car is expected to contribute 43.2% in 2024 owing to its unparalleled convenience and flexibility. As cities grow more populated and commutes lengthen, personal mobility remains invaluable for many consumers. Passenger Cars comfortably accommodate most daily driving needs while allowing full control over routes and schedules. Their affordability relative to other options also widens their accessibility.

Cultural shifts towards solo commuting have further increased Passenger Car relevance. Younger generations in particular prefer the independence and freedom of owning their own vehicle. Evolving lifestyles that involve shuttleing between multiple activities also play to the strengths of Passenger Cars for accommodating personal possessions and family members. Ongoing technological improvements likewise augment the value proposition. Features like comfortable interiors, efficient powertrains, advanced connectivity and driver assistance systems substantially raise the Passenger Car experience. This helps justify their role as a preferred long-term personal investment over other modes of transport.

Insights, By Fuel Type, Dependence on Heavy Duty Applications Sustains Diesel's Market Dominance

By Fuel Type, Diesel is projected to contribute 72.3% in 2024 due to its predominance in heavy commercial applications. Tasks like long-haul freight, construction, agriculture and mining require the unparalleled torque and hauling capacity that Diesel delivers. It remains the benchmark fuel for maximizing payload capacity and operational uptime in punishing conditions.

Diesel also offers superior energy density versus gasoline, translating to longer ranges before refueling. This serves commercial operators' need to minimize downtime due to refueling. Well-established fueling infrastructures countrywide facilitate its widespread adoption. Supportive government policies on tax benefits and emissions regulations have historically given Diesel parity with or advantages over other fuels for commercial fleets.

While challenges exist from stringent emissions norms and the emphasis on carbon reduction, Diesel use is nevertheless entrenched in indispensable heavy industries for the foreseeable future. It will probably cede share in light-duty segments but retain a formidable foothold where heavy lifting and long runs take precedence over other considerations.

Insights, By Drivetrain, All-Wheel Drive, Drives the Need for Enhanced Traction and Vehicle Dynamics

By Drivetrain, Four-wheel Drive contributes the highest share due to fulfilling the rising demands for assured traction and optimized driving dynamics. As weather conditions become more extreme with climate change, vehicular needs have evolved for undeterred performance on slippery surfaces or off-road environments. Four-wheel Drive directly answers this call by distributing torque to all four wheels for uninterrupted momentum and directional control.

Safety and confidence remain top priorities for consumers, and Four-wheel Drive vehicles deliver just that. They inspire tranquility in drivers regardless of road conditions and provide a critical backstop in emergency maneuvers requiring rapid acceleration or redirection. The enhanced handling afforded is also a boon for recreational activities demanding optimal response.

Drivers concerned with more spirited performance increasingly value the linear feel and feedback of an All-wheel Drive system as well. Its optimized distribution of power engenders sharper turn-in, balanced weight transfer through bends, and sooner traction opening the door for exhilarating yet fuss-free driving dynamics. Technologies further refining its control logic only strengthen its value in performance-oriented segments.

The major players operating in the Light Duty Vehicles Market include Ford Motor Company, Nissan Motor Company, General Motors Company, Toyota Motor Corporation, Honda Motor Company, Ltd., BMW AG, Subaru Corporation, Daimler AG, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. and Hyundai Motor Company.

• In March 2024, BMW launched the all-electric ‘iX xDrive50’ in India with features like a driving range of 635 km and adaptive 2-axle air suspension.
• In February 2024, Daimler AG introduced a light truck called 'Canter' in Japan, featuring advanced safety systems like active brake assist and active sideguard assist.
• In January 2024, Tata Motors launched the affordable Punch EV in India with variants offering driving ranges between 315 km and 421 km.
• In May 2024, Maruti Suzuki launched the Swift 2024 model in India with enhanced features such as a 9-inch touchscreen and six airbags.
• In January 2024, Tesla launched the new Model 3 in North America, offering Level 2 autonomy and an electric drivetrain with a driving range of up to 341 miles.

• By Vehicle Type
  • Passenger Car
  • Van
  • Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV)
  • Pickup Truck
• By Fuel Type
  • Diesel
  • Gasoline
  • Hybrid
  • Electric
• By Drivetrain
  • Four-wheel Drive (4WD)
  • Rear-wheel Drive (RWD)
  • Front-wheel Drive(FWD)
  • All-wheel Driver (AWD)
• Transmission Type
  • Automatic
  • Manual