Software-Defined Vehicle Market Assessment, By Offering [Hardware, Software, Services], By Vehicle Type [Passenger, Commercial], By Propulsion Type [Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles, Electric Vehicles], By Vehicle Autonomy [Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, L

Global software-defined vehicle market is projected to witness a CAGR of 17.10% during the forecast period 2025-2032, growing from USD 96.30 billion in 2024 to USD 340.47 billion in 2032. The market has experienced significant growth in recent years and is expected to maintain an expansion in the coming years owing to rapid automation in the driving technology, enhancement in the safety features of vehicles, increased demand for connected vehicles, and rapid customization. The global software-defined vehicle market demand is significantly rising owing to advancements in automotive technology, a rising shift in consumer preferences toward subscription models, and continuous improvements in onboard hardware capabilities. Also, improved safety features, including driver assistance, anti-collision systems, and increased demand for comfort through onboard infotainment systems that integrate connected features, including video streaming and music, are projected to drive the requirement for software-driven vehicles across the globe. Companies in the market are efficiently investing in different research and development activities to improve the driving experience and enhance vehicle performance. In addition, governments of other regions are framing different policies to ensure road safety and control the number of road accidents. Therefore, companies are integrating different software in their vehicles, enabling end-users to connect their smartphone with vehicles to interact with their cars in new ways.

Furthermore, the advancement of in-vehicle connectivity and integration of sensors delivering real-time information services to and from vehicles is also projected to foster the demand for software-driven cars globally in the forecast period. Key participants in the global software-defined vehicles market are collaborating to introduce advanced systems and software for varied software-defined vehicles to offer better driving experience and road safety.

For instance, in July 2024, Tata Technologies signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Arm Limited to develop automotive software and systems solutions for software-defined vehicles.

Increased Adoption of Autonomous Vehicles Drive the Global Software-Defined Vehicle Market Growth

The shift toward autonomous vehicles is witnessing momentum, propelled by artificial intelligence and sensor technology advancements. Companies in the market are significantly investing in research and development to introduce fully self-driving capabilities. The considerable improvements in machine learning, AI, and sensor technologies are making autonomous driving more viable. This boasts a higher requirement for software that can process huge amounts of data in real-time. In addition to the growing concerns over road safety, consumers are more inclined to adopt autonomous vehicles, which often feature advanced safety systems powered by software. Furthermore, governments of emerging countries are increasingly investing in infrastructure and regulations to support the production of autonomous vehicles and compelling companies to integrate different safety features in the vehicles, further accelerating the global software-defined vehicle market growth in the forecast period. Companies are producing autonomous vehicles with advanced software and systems, including navigation, entertainment, and vehicle-to-everything communication, to enhance the driving experience and promote adoption.

For instance, in June 2024, Toyota Kirloskar Motor and its joint venture partner, GAC INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD., a state-owned enterprise in China, announced the launch of an electric vehicle (EV) with autonomous driving capabilities by 2025.

Increasing Integration of AI and Machine Learning in Vehicles Propel Market Demand

The growing integration of AI and machine learning in vehicles significantly fosters demand in the global software-defined vehicle market. These technologies improve the vehicle's capabilities, and advancements in machine learning algorithms are important for the launch of fully autonomous vehicles, accelerating the requirement for sophisticated software solutions in vehicles. However, AI allows vehicles to learn driver preferences, improving convenience and comfort through customized settings for climate control, navigation, and infotainment. In addition, these technologies improve Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), allowing features including lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and automated emergency braking, significantly enhancing safety, and are expected to accelerate the global software-defined vehicle market demand in the forecast period. Furthermore, over-the-air (OTA) updates confirm vehicles remain updated with software advancements, fostering consumer appeal. Automotive companies significantly leverage data analytics for innovative business models and sustainable practices, fostering the global software-driven vehicle market growth. Also, companies are collaborating and introducing autonomous vehicles equipped with AI and machine learning to enhance safety, user experience, and efficiency.

For instance, in May 2023, Waymo LLC and Uber Technologies Inc. announced a multi-year strategic partnership to bring together Waymo's world-leading autonomous driving technology with the massive scale of Uber’s ridesharing and delivery networks.

Passenger Vehicle Dominates the Global Software-Defined Vehicle Market Share

The passenger vehicle segment is leading the global market for software-defined vehicles owing to the rising production of semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles, increasing demand for advanced features, and enhanced user experiences. Consumers in emerging countries prefer vehicles that offer seamless connectivity, personalization, and safety, forcing automakers to incorporate advanced software solutions that further drive the global software-defined passenger vehicle market growth. The technologies, including machine learning and artificial intelligence, enable infotainment upgrades, advanced driver assistance systems, and over-the-air updates. These appeal to buyers and accelerate the global software-defined passenger vehicle market demand in the forecast period. Companies in the market are introducing software for passenger vehicles to address the growing demand and offer safety coupled with enhancing the overall driving experience.

For instance, in June 2024, LG Electronics Inc. announced the launch of a new suite of software products dubbed ‘LG AlphaWare’ that can support automakers in introducing immersive in-vehicle experiences for software-defined vehicles.

Asia-Pacific Holds the Largest Market Size in the Global Software-Defined Vehicles Market

Asia-Pacific is presently the largest software vehicle market due to rapid urbanization, a growing presence of advanced automotive technologies, and increasing disposable incomes. Major automakers in countries including China, South Korea, and Japan are significantly investing in research and development of connected and autonomous vehicles, machine learning, and leveraging artificial intelligence to improve functionality and user experience. In addition, the governments of emerging countries are promoting smart mobility and sustainability by forming different initiatives that further drive market growth and offering different market growth opportunities to the companies. Companies are also planning to launch new and advanced models in the market to offer a more comfortable driving experience and promote the adoption of autonomous driving.

For instance, in March 2024, XPENG INC. announced the launch of the X9 ultra-smart large seven-seater in China to provide greater flexibility than an SUV and secure a dominant market share. With the launch of the X9, XPENG enriches its Smart EV portfolio, fascinating primary market requirements and encouraging the adoption of autonomous driving.

Future Market Scenario (2025-2032F)

The rising demand for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving features makes software-defined vehicles appealing. Their ability to receive updates enhances these capabilities, attracting tech-savvy consumers who prioritize innovation.

Safety features powered by software, such as automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance, are becoming essential. This heightened safety focus drives consumer interest in vehicles equipped with advanced software systems.

Rapid advancements in software technology allow continuous feature enhancements in vehicles. Consumers are drawn to the latest innovations, making software-defined vehicles more attractive in a competitive automotive market.

Increased competition from tech companies entering the automotive sector is driving the push for software-defined vehicles. This trend reflects a broader industry shift toward integrating cutting-edge technology into all aspects of vehicle design and functionality.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

Companies in the global software-defined vehicle (SDV) market are expanding their market presence and product portfolio by leveraging advanced technologies and strategic partnerships. They focus on integrating cutting-edge software solutions, such as over-the-air updates and autonomous driving capabilities, to enhance vehicle functionality and user experience. By adopting a software-centric approach, these companies can rapidly innovate and introduce new features, ensuring continuous improvement and adaptability. Additionally, collaborations with tech firms and investments in research and development enable them to stay ahead of market trends and meet evolving customer demands. This strategy boosts their competitiveness and fosters customer loyalty and satisfaction.

In October 2024, Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Corporation, and Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced a partnership to connect SDV to smartphones and introduce a new mobility experience for customers.