Automotive Airbags Market Assessment, By Type [Frontal Airbag, Side Airbag, Knee Airbag, Others], By Vehicle [Passenger Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles], By Yarn [Polyester Fiber, Nylon, Others], By Coating [Neoprene, Silicone, Non-Coated], By Sales Channel

Automotive Airbags Market Assessment, By Type [Frontal Airbag, Side Airbag, Knee Airbag, Others], By Vehicle [Passenger Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles], By Yarn [Polyester Fiber, Nylon, Others], By Coating [Neoprene, Silicone, Non-Coated], By Sales Channel [OEM, Aftermarket], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2031F

Global automotive airbags market is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.85% during the forecast period 2024-2031, growing from USD 18.61 billion in 2023 to USD 31.62 billion in 2031. The advanced security features through the implementation of a mix of hardware and software are thriving in the sales of vehicle safety equipment. The airbag system is a crucial part of any vehicle as it keeps the driver and passenger safe throughout the ride. Furthermore, the new technological integration of the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) enables artificial intelligence to control airbag control, making it technologically advanced. The increased awareness among end-users due to the rising number of accidents and rash driving is anticipated to fuel the expansion of the automotive airbags market. Government compliances, safety regulations, and programs such as the Global New Car Assessment (NCAP) keep track of new vehicle safety ratings, pushing automotive companies to adopt the latest airbag technology.

For instance, in March 2023, Hyundai Mobis enhanced its airbag technology with Face-to-Face Protection Airbags, curtain airbags, and omnidirectional airbags for PBVs. Based on intensive R&D, the company supplied vital unique airbag components to pioneer automobile safety features and gears in the next mobility sector. Brain injury prevention airbag won the silver tower order of industrial service merit in the United States New Technology Commercialization competition after receiving a good score in the United States oblique crash test.

Advanced Airbag Design and Increased Market Competition to Fuel Market Expansion

The increased automotive competition on different factors such as pricing, safety, power, durability, and others is transforming the market. The advent of smart airbags and sensor integration modules is revolutionizing airbag systems. With the addition of advanced sensors and artificial intelligence, smart airbags can assess the severity of a collision, the location of the occupant, and how much force to apply when deployed. This feature reduces the possibility of unneeded airbag deployment, which reduces injuries during collisions and improves safety. Furthermore, the multi-stage airbag system deployment has gained prominence with its intensity-based adaptive deployment and highly personalized safety approach. The approach includes the integration of inflatable seat belts that deliver the same cushioning and protection airbags provide. Automakers are also adopting airbag technology according to different laws imposed on the usage of airbags.

For instance, in February 2024, French Automotive Giant Citroen announced that it would increase the safety standards of its vehicles in India by making six airbags standard. The safety function will be updated in the second part of the year or starting July 2024.

There are presently four Citroen models available in India, the Ñ-C3, C3 Aircross SUV, C3, and C5 Aircross. In case of a collision, the front, side, and curtain airbags of the six-airbag system will offer additional protection.

Extensive Research and Development to Thrive Market Growth

Extensive research and development for the advancement of vehicle safety are leading factors in the market’s growth. The automakers and aftermarket vendors are adopting a comprehensive road safety approach. Pedestrian protection airbags are the latest addition to this approach. Pedestrian protection airbags are an example of how the airbag industry is addressing the idea that safety should not stop inside the car. When an accident occurs, these airbags deployed along the front outside of the vehicle lessen the effect they have on pedestrians. This tendency extends the protection provided by airbags beyond the vehicle's occupants, in line with a larger commitment to overall road safety. Airbags have evolved, including data collection and sharing, to deliver quick emergency systems. The expansion of airbag manufacturing facilities is expected to increase automobile sales and compliance.

For instance, in July 2023, the ZF Group and the Wuhan Economic Development Zone (WEDZ), located in the Hubei region of central China, signed an agreement whereby ZF will establish the ZF Wuhan Automobile Safety Systems (Wuhan) Co., Ltd. by investing in an automobile airbag production and research and development center. Peak yearly output is anticipated to exceed RMB 3 billion (about Rs 3,321 crore) when it starts operating.

Government Compliance Policies and to Fuel Market Growth

Government regulations and safety compliances are the most important in expanding the global automotive airbags market. Constant analysis of safety rules and mandating airbags in commercial or passenger vehicles will likely garner market growth. Furthermore, the advanced safety features and increased end-user awareness have limited government restrictions and regulations. It limits the sales of automotive airbags but improves safety through advancements.

For instance, in September 2023, instead of mandating automakers to install six airbags in passenger cars, the government of India allowed consumers to compare the crash safety worthiness of different vehicles and make their vehicle selections based on star ratings through India's first automobile safety rating scheme. The government later mandated these airbags in passenger vehicles. This regulation would apply to passenger cars with eight seats to increase road safety. Owing to the difficulties encountered in the global supply chain, this regulation came into force on October 1, 2023.

Greater Mass, Family-Oriented, and Variable Terrain Operations to Fuel Segmental Growth

Based on vehicles, the passenger vehicle segment holds a decent share of the market. The increased sales of passenger vehicles in emerging economies such as India and China are expected to fuel market growth. The demand for safety and security in SUVs due to their higher mass and family-oriented operations also pushes the demand for airbags. The higher number of seats and all-terrain operational capabilities also increase the risk factor. Hence, automakers fit a higher number of airbags in these vehicles. These vehicles are getting increasingly popular in cities, contributing to the segment's growth. The demand for car airbags rises parallelly with the number of these vehicles sold, driving the segment's market expansion.

For instance, in December 2023, Kia introduced the latest version of Sonet in India. The highlights include a sportier and more muscular version. It includes the facelift version of the vehicle with 6-airbags and ADAS features. Following the introduction of segment-first and standard six airbags in the Carens and Seltos, Kia is now providing six airbags as standard in the Kia Sonet. This implies that six airbags are now standard equipment on the entire Kia lineup in India.

Asia-Pacific Region Leads in the Global Automotive Airbags Market

The increased sales of personal vehicles with the increasing per capita income and new automotive brands entering the market are anticipated to fuel the market growth. The new manufacturing units with stringent regional safety norms are projected to push the automotive brands to follow the airbag standards. Furthermore, the addition of Indian automotive brands such as Tata Motors, Hyundai, Mahindra, and others is also adding value to the market dynamics.

For instance, in January 2023, up to 50,000 owners of older automobiles received a request from Toyota to stop driving them immediately. They were also requested to have their defective airbags fixed as soon as possible. According to the voluntary recall, drivers should not operate the vehicles until the airbags have been fixed or replaced.

Future Market Scenario (2024–2031F)

The increased focus on passenger safety with high-power engines and increased acceleration will likely fuel the market growth.

Government mandating a certain number of airbags in passenger and commercial vehicles is anticipated to positively affect the global automotive airbags market.

New manufacturing spaces worldwide, especially in emerging economies such as China and India, are projected to enhance the supply chain.

Technological advancements in airbag material and fitting and its integration with AI, sensors, and connected vehicle technology are fuelling the market growth.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

The automotive airbags market comprises major automotive players along with aftermarket companies. The companies focus on high-end research of sensory technology, airbag material, opening time, and pressure. Companies also adopt technologies such as artificial intelligence and connected cars to upskill the airbag systems. Key players also strategize through collaborations, acquisitions, and mergers.

For instance, in June 2023, New airbag technology was presented by safety equipment specialist Autoliv. It is based on the Bernoulli Principle, which stipulates that static pressure drops with fluid speed. In the past, internal gas pressure has allowed airbags to quickly inflate in the event of a collision. Nevertheless, Autoliv's design enhances the inflation process by drawing in surrounding air through pressure differentials.

In October 2023, Indorama Ventures and Toyobo joint ventured to go for commercial production of airbags in 2023. The plant holds the capacity to deliver 11,000 tons of high-performance yarn per year to meet global demand for airbags.