Automotive Lightweight Cars Market Assessment, By Car Type [Passenger Cars, Sports Cars, Others], By Material Type [Carbon Fiber, Glass Fiber, High-Strength Steel, Others], By Propulsion Type [ICEV, BEV, HEV, FCEV], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast,

Automotive Lightweight Cars Market Assessment, By Car Type [Passenger Cars, Sports Cars, Others], By Material Type [Carbon Fiber, Glass Fiber, High-Strength Steel, Others], By Propulsion Type [ICEV, BEV, HEV, FCEV], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2031F

The global automotive lightweight cars market is projected to witness a CAGR of 5.96% during the forecast period 2024-2031, growing from USD 51.78 billion in 2023 to USD 82.28 billion in 2031. The market has experienced significant growth in recent years and is expected to maintain a strong pace of expansion in the coming years.

The advent of electric vehicles with better weight proportion is expected to increase the demand for lightweight cars. The goal of lightweight cars is to minimize the amount of maintenance that needs to be done on the vehicle based on the assumption that the vehicle will be strong and safe to drive. Some of the benefits of lightweight cars include weight loss on the chassis, weight loss on the interior, and weight loss on the powertrain. The role of lightweight material in sports cars is crucial and hence research and development facilities constantly focus on reducing unnecessary weight.

Manufacturers are turning to materials such as aluminum, carbon fiber, and fiberglass to make lightweight cars. These materials improve the handling of the vehicle, making it easier to drive in different weather and reducing the risk of collisions. Parts made from these materials also absorb more energy and can be more durable than an equivalent mass part made of steel. The increased demand for safer vehicles along with increased sports cars. The lightweight car market is heavily influenced by fuel efficiency and emissions regulations. Governments globally are setting higher emission standards to fight climate change, which encourages manufacturers to make lighter, more efficient cars. This regulatory environment is closely linked to performance requirements that consumers demand.

In February 2023, Toyota, Suzuki, and Daihatsu started working on a lightweight sportscar. The car will be a hybrid 2-seater roadster powered by Suzuki's 1.0 engine that develops 120 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. The design of the vehicle could be based on the S-FR or Sports EV concepts of torque.

Higher Efficiency and Advent of Electric Vehicles to Transform the Market Dynamics

Lightweight cars improve performance in terms of acceleration, handling, and braking power. This added benefit combined with better fuel economy has attracted many consumers, resulting in the growth of the lightweight car market. One of the main drivers for the market growth is the increase in the use of lightweight construction materials. Electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are constantly looking for ways to reduce the weight of their vehicles to maximize the battery range.

The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of a vehicle are influenced by two main parameters, namely vehicle mass and engine power. Stricter government fuel consumption regulations and changing consumer preferences are further impacting the market growth positively. A rising number of automakers advertise their weight reduction programs.

For instance, in September 2023, Chery New Energy launched its eQ7 pure electric SUV in China. This mid-size SUV measures 4675 / 1910 / 1660mm with a wheelbase of 2830mm. According to Chery, this car is based on China's first lightweight aluminium-based platform.

Evolving Consumer Preferences and Technological Advancements

The automotive design landscape has changed drastically in recent years, driven by a shift in consumer behavior towards sustainability, increased efficiency, and improved performance. In response to these demands, lightweight vehicles have emerged as an innovative growth opportunity.

Material science and engineering are leading the way in the development of lightweight construction materials. Market participants are investing in R&D to improve the physical characteristics of lightweight materials to increase their strength and structural rigidity. The introduction of advanced manufacturing technologies has accelerated the development of lightweight solutions. Apart from the advanced technologies, companies also use lightweight components in their vehicles to make them airy.

For instance, In July 2023, Hyundai Motors partnered with Dymag Wheels to develop carbon-fiber wheels for its N division. The prototype, which was presented at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2023, has an outer rim made of carbon fiber composite with a central piece of forged metal.

Government Support to Innovative Automotive Lightweight Solutions to Deliver Market Expansion

Governments around the world are making rigid rules on emissions, prompting automakers to look for alternatives to conventional materials. Lightweight vehicles using advanced materials such as carbon fiber composites (CFCs) and aluminum alloys offer significant weight savings, reducing energy consumption and emissions. Apart from government policies, constant support for innovative automotive manufacturing ideas is also accepted in the market space. The support comprises investments, tax cuts, and research donations through different verticals. The increased number of projects supporting the sector with lightweight chassis, advanced propulsion, and enhanced design are benefitting sports car manufacturers as well.

For instance, in November 2023, the United Kingdom government unveiled a USD 2.56 billion fund for the automotive industry for the development and manufacture of electric vehicles. It will support the development of innovative electric vehicles, such as hydrogen fuel cells (HFCs) for buses, and lightweight electric vehicle (EV) powertrains.

In October 2023, Aston Martin was awarded USD 11.51 million from the United Kingdom government to accelerate its electrification program, which is set to deliver the brand's first electric vehicle (EV) at the end of 2025. The money will be channeled through the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) and will support Aston’s development of a new platform to underpin a new generation of electric sports car models. The first of these is expected to be a new SUV, followed by a new GT model towards the end of 2025.

Increased Per Capita Income along with Technological Trends to Fuel Segmental Growth

Based on the car type, the passenger car segment is anticipated to hold a decent share of the market. The passenger segment is concerned with reducing vehicle weight using high-tech materials and design methods to improve fuel economy, performance, and environmental impact. The shift to lightweight vehicles is a result of global sustainability trends, technological innovation, and evolving consumer preferences.

The emergence of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles has also been a major driver of the market for lightweight vehicles. In EVs and hybrid vehicles, weight reduction is essential to maximize range and efficiency. Therefore, lightweight design has become an integral part of EV and hybrid technology. As a result, there has been a surge in investment and innovation into lightweight materials and designs specially designed for EVs and hybrid vehicles. Apart from EVs, the adoption of hydrogen fuel technology is making vehicles lighter than electric batteries.

For instance, in April 2023, Toyota Motors launched its first new hydrogen fuel cell car (FCEV) for the Japanese market. Toyota's emphasis on H2 vehicles over the last ten years has left it lagging in battery electric vehicles (BEV), with its sole BEV model (the bZ4X) not selling at all.

Asia-Pacific Region Accelerates in Global Automotive Lightweight Cars Market

Based on region, the Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to thrive at an accelerated rate in the market. The automotive industry expansion witnessed in the region is attributed to the increased per capita income, cheaper passenger vehicles, and rising adoption of electric vehicles. The higher sales of EVs are anticipated by government subsidies, new launches, and recognition of smart EV battery solutions. In addition, the region is also driving innovation in automotive technologies, with a strong emphasis on lightweight materials such as high-strength steel (HSS), aluminum, magnesium, and carbon fiber. Asia-Pacific companies are also investing in R&D to develop innovative lightweight solutions that do not compromise vehicle safety and performance. This includes improving manufacturing processes and incorporating lightweight components into vehicle designs. Furthermore, Indian players are investing in EV lightweight platforms due to rapidly increasing sales of EVs, lightweight vehicles, and sports cars.

For instance, in November 2023, Mahindra and Mahindra announced that it is under development of an innovative electric vehicle with advanced features such as autonomous parking, a lightweight battery pack, and a host of sensors to guide the driver.

Future Market Scenario (2024–2031F)

• The technological advancements, new EVs, and hydrogen fuel cell-based vehicles are likely to shape the prospects for market growth.

• Advanced materials such as fiber, lightweight steel, and micro-lattice are anticipated to add value to the market.

• Higher sales of sports utility vehicles with lightweight components are projected to drive market growth during the forecast period.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

The competitive landscape for the automotive lightweight cars industry is evolving with constantly developing designs and use of material. The new product line comprises lightweight platforms, batteries, and other vehicle components. Manufacturers try to focus on advertising their specialties in the form of reducing vehicle weight while not compromising the functionalities and quality of the vehicle. Furthermore, the major key players collaborate, acquire, and merge with other brands for technological adoption, enhanced supply chains, and expanded distribution channels.

In February 2024, Hyundai Motor Co. announced to build entry-level electric mini-SUV named Casper. The lightweight city car is all-electric and is projected to compete with Dacia Sprin and Citroen’s e-C3 in the European market. The car will go into production in July 2024.

In December 2023, Toyota Motor Corporation unveiled their FT-Se battery electric high-performance two-seater sportscar concept with a lightweight and advanced design. The car name has been drawn from ‘Future Toyota Sports electric’ and comes with next-generation batteries and personal ride customization.