Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market Forecasts to 2030 – Global Analysis By Type (Live Axle, Tandem Axle and Dead Axle), Propeller Shift (Single Piece Propeller Shaft and Multi Piece Propeller Shaft), Material, Vehicle Type, Sales Channel and By Geography
According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market is accounted for $33.18 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $48.92 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period. Axles are shafts or rods that connect and transmit power from the differential to the wheels. They ensure power distribution and support the vehicle's weight while facilitating wheel rotation and suspension movements. Moreover, these components are typically manufactured using steel or other durable materials, designed to withstand various forces and torques experienced during vehicle operation.
Market Dynamics:Driver:Increasing adoption of electric vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) demand specialized axle and propeller shaft systems tailored for electric drivetrains, accommodating unique motor configurations and power transmission needs. The shift towards EVs emphasizes lightweight, high-efficiency components, driving innovation in axle and shaft technologies. As the automotive industry transitions to electric propulsion for its environmental advantages and efficiency, the growing demand for advanced, custom-designed axle and propeller shaft systems to suit electric vehicle architectures is a prominent driver, shaping the market's evolution and expansion towards greener and more sustainable transportation solutions.
Restraint:Fluctuating raw material prices
Price volatility of essential materials like steel, aluminium, and specialized alloys impacts production costs, directly influencing the overall manufacturing expenses of axle and propeller shaft systems. Sudden price fluctuations disrupt cost estimations, leading to unpredictable expenses, potentially squeezing profit margins for manufacturers. This challenge hampers strategic planning, production forecasting, and cost-efficient manufacturing, posing obstacles in offering competitive pricing, impacting the market's stability, and creating uncertainties in the Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market.
Opportunity:Growing emphasis on lightweight materials
Innovations in materials, such as advanced composites, high-strength alloys, and carbon fiber-reinforced plastics, offer the potential for lighter yet durable axle and propeller shaft systems. Utilizing these lightweight materials enhances fuel efficiency, reduces vehicle weight, and improves overall performance. Furthermore, manufacturers investing in research and development to create innovative, strong, and cost-effective lightweight materials for axle and propeller shafts can cater to the industry's demand for efficient and environmentally friendly drivetrain components, positioning themselves competitively in the market.
Threat:Regulatory standards
Evolving regulations focusing on emissions, safety, and vehicle performance often necessitate costly adjustments or modifications to axle and propeller shaft systems to meet compliance standards. Adhering to these stringent regulations adds complexities and expenses in terms of design, manufacturing, and testing processes. Failure to comply may lead to market exclusion or penalties. Thus, there is a decreasing demand for market growth.
Covid-19 ImpactThe COVID-19 pandemic is causing disruptions in production, supply chains, and demand. Lockdowns, factory closures, and supply chain interruptions led to reduced vehicle production, affecting axle and propeller shaft manufacturers. Fluctuating consumer demand, economic uncertainties, and workforce challenges further hindered market growth. However, a gradual recovery ensued as restrictions eased, driving vehicle demand and production rebound. Additionally, the pandemic accelerated trends like electric vehicles and online sales, prompting manufacturers to innovate and adapt.
The single piece propeller shaft segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The single piece propeller shaft segment is estimated to hold the largest share. The Single Piece Propeller Shaft, providing a seamless and robust linkage between the vehicle's transmission and the rear axle. This design minimizes joints and connections, enhancing durability, reducing vibrations, and optimizing power transmission efficiency in vehicles. Single Piece Propeller Shafts offer advantages in terms of reduced maintenance, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced overall performance, making them a sought-after choice in modern automotive drivetrain systems for their reliability and ability to meet stringent performance standards.
The heavy commercial vehicles segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
The heavy commercial vehicles segment is anticipated to have lucrative growth during the forecast period. Axle configurations in heavy commercial vehicles vary, including single, tandem, or multiple axles, supporting different weight capacities. Propeller shafts in this segment demand durability, reliability, and the ability to endure extensive usage under heavy loads. Moreover, the performance and efficiency of axle and propeller shaft systems are critical factors for the reliable operation of heavy commercial vehicles, catering to transportation and logistics industries worldwide.
Region with largest share:Asia Pacific commanded the largest market share during the extrapolated period due to rising automotive production, industrialization, and infrastructure development. This market expansion is fuelled by technological advancements, demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, and a shift toward electric and hybrid vehicles. Additionally, the region's focus on enhancing transportation networks and the growing investments in the automotive sector amplify opportunities for axle and propeller shaft manufacturers to meet the escalating demands of this dynamic and rapidly evolving market.
Region with highest CAGR:North America is expected to witness profitable growth over the projection period. The United States, Canada, and Mexico form key markets, benefiting from a strong demand for light and heavy-duty vehicles. Factors like the increasing adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, stringent emission regulations, and a focus on fuel efficiency propel market advancements. Additionally, the region's emphasis on R&D for lightweight materials and advanced manufacturing techniques contributes to the market's evolution, offering lucrative opportunities for axle and propeller shaft manufacturers amidst the dynamic automotive landscape.
Key players in the marketSome of the key players in the Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market include American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc., Dana Incorporated, Hyundai Wia Corporation, Hitachi, Ltd., JTEKT Corporation, Meritor, Inc., ZF Friedrichshafen AG, IFA Group, Melrose Industries Plc, Gestamp Automocion, S.A., Korea Flange Co. Ltd. (KOFCO), Showa Corporation, Gelenkwellen-Service GmbH., GKN-Walterscheid GmbH, Automotive Axles Limited and Mark Williams Enterprises Inc.
Key Developments:In March 2023, Dana Incorporated announced several initiatives―including new drivetrain offerings for electrified vehicles―that strengthen the company's growing commitment to the North American construction and off-highway markets.
In September 2022, as a global leader in electrification, Hitachi Astemo, Ltd. has received electric axle (e-Axle) orders for mid-size and large-size battery-electric vehicles from Honda Motor Co., Ltd., slated for a global rollout in 2026.
Types Covered:
• Live Axle
• Tandem Axle
• Dead Axle
Propeller Shifts Covered:
• Single Piece Propeller Shaft
• Multi Piece Propeller Shaft
Materials Covered:
• Carbon Fiber
• Alloy
Vehicle Types Covered:
• Passenger Cars
• Heavy Commercial Vehicles
• Light Commercial Vehicles
Sales Channels Covered:
• Aftermarket
• Original Equipment Manufacturer
Regions Covered:
• North America
US
Canada
Mexico
• Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
France
Spain
Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
JapanChinaIndiaAustralia
New Zealand
South Korea
Rest of Asia Pacific• South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Qatar
South Africa
Rest of Middle East & Africa
What our report offers:- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2026, and 2030
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements
Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances