FRM 2025: Sector Report Automotive Industry KPMG in Germany

Get in touch to easily and exhaustively scout relevant technologies & startups that matter to you. Operating from Germany and the US, EcoG is a startup offering an IoT-based operating system and platform for EV charging. The startup provides manufacturers with tools that make the development and maintenance of EV charging infrastructure simple, fast, and scalable. It also allows operators to integrate services and microservices in the chargers to make the charging process profitable. In addition, the solution works with any EV charger and enables new features to be shipped throughout the network.

Methodology: How We Created the Automobile Trend Report

The move highlights the scale of investment required to meet zero-emission vehicle targets and align with regulatory pressures for decarbonisation. The road to 2025 is set to bring even more dynamic changes, with global collaborations, technological breakthroughs, and bold strategies defining the future of manufacturing. This article profiles the top five Chinese automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) leading the industry in sales volume and market capitalization.

Evolving video marketing & environmental sustainability

These technologies enhance safety, efficiency, and user experience across vehicles. 2025 is no exception—automotive manufacturers are expected to continue implementing more and more advanced safety features in their vehicles. Last year, the European Union updated the General Safety Regulation (GSR) and establishes mandatory safety requirements for cars sold in the EU. According to this regulation, starting from 2024, the following features become compulsory.

The software integrates a one-shot multitask network capable of performing 2D detection, semantic segmentation, and monocular depth estimation. It processes these tasks in real time at over 120 frames per second on consumer-grade graphics processing units (GPUs). Indian startup General Intelligence creates self-driving intelligence software that supports software-defined vehicles in adapting to diverse driving environments.

As for those who already use micromobility vehicles, 32% say they often or very often use it instead of a private car. Cox Automotive Industry Insights predicted total new-vehicle sales in 2022 of only 14.4 million units, a number that doesn’t even surpass 2020 sales volume. Semiconductor experts say manufacturers won’t see a return on investment if they build new foundries to meet the auto industry’s demand. In addition, the initiative will leverage the data collected by adding Google’s AI capabilities to Ford vehicles. Google and Ford recently announced a connected car partnership called Team Upshift. This type of vehicle is defined by its ability to communicate with other software systems and collect data from its surroundings.

⚡️ Navigating the EV Charging Infrastructure Challenge

IoT creates more opportunities for manufacturers to market to consumers even after they’ve made a purchase. Consistent brand messaging across all channels, including in-car infotainment systems and websites, can help foster long-term customer relationships, promoting brand loyalty and advocacy. Fuel-cell electric vehicles will emerge worldwide in 2025 due to their faster recharge, extended range, and zero emissions. Major car, truck, and SUV manufacturers are investing in fuel-cell electric vehicle development, with the support of countries like China, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and the United States. The EU’s Green Deal and its accompanying “Fit for 55” initiative aim to cut carbon emissions drastically by 2030, piling new expectations on manufacturers to reduce their environmental impact. Adding to the challenge, measures such as stricter Euro 7 tailpipe standards and updated rules on battery recycling demand deeper innovation within supply chains and operations.

Inside the architecture: How software-defined vehicle (SDV) platforms are built

Lastly, MARV.Automotive is a configurable and extensible data management platform that reliably transmits data from the vehicle to the cloud. The US-based online car buying and VIN checks startup Launch Mobility develops a platform for a range of shared mobility solutions. The platform LM Mission ControlTM offers free-floating or station-based car sharing, advanced shuttle services, shared dockless scooters, keyless rental programs, and peer-to-peer shared mobility. Further, their drivers use out-of-the-box or white-labeled apps to manage reservations or remotely access vehicles.

Labor costs are another factor in the rise of local sourcing, with countries such as Taiwan, Cambodia, and Laos providing a lower-cost labor alternative to China. Given the opportunity to significantly disrupt private transport and shape the future of the automotive industry, companies are expected to continue investing in autonomous vehicles in 2025. Without subsidies, demand for EVs on the consumer end could also drastically decrease as was recently seen in Germany after government incentives ended. This may also see American automakers finding more challenges in exporting vehicles to regions in which regulations are more stringent. At the same time, a limited EV infrastructure and uneven policy application dampen the pace of meaningful progress throughout the region. When it comes to the benefits of connected cars, it seems that drivers are more willing to allow for data collection, too.

Optimizing mobile experiences & personalization

Autonomous tech will likely be bundled with subscription services, reshaping mobility economics. From electric vehicles zipping past gas guzzlers to cars that update themselves like your smartphone, the industry is in the middle of a revolution. Did you know that EVs are projected to make up nearly 20% of global vehicle sales in 2026? That’s no longer a distant future — it’s happening now, and it’s transforming everything from manufacturing floors to your driveway. The current trends in the automotive industry seen in previous years will remain in 2025 and are likely to become automotive future trends. We hope this blog helps you understand the upcoming automotive industry trends in 2025.

Launching of fuel cell EVs

Many expected the auto industry to mount a post-pandemic rebound in 2021, but that didn’t happen. Infineon, the largest manufacturer of auto chips, is increasing its investment in production by nearly $1 billion euros in 2022. All of this puts the auto industry at the back of the line when it comes to receiving chips. Now, 94% of consumers check the manufacturer’s website for product information before purchasing a part. And Tesla had already decided to close all its stores in 2019, now selling all new cars online.

🚦 Levels of Autonomy Explained: From Driver-Assist to Full Self-Driving

Indian startup RevitsOne offers AI-powered fleet-management software that is suitable for fleets of varying sizes. The startup’s vehicle management system provides insights into speed, running vitals, and health information. Drivers benefit from Voicera ID, a voice-based virtual assistant that helps them keep track of the information they need. Additionally, the onboard speed recorder limits the speed to discourage dangerous driving behaviors. Singapore-based startup Beam focuses on e-scooters to promote shared mobility in the Asia-Pacific region. Their scooters use an aviation-grade aluminum frame and are customized for sharing, safety, reliability, and durability.

Automakers like Toyota and QuantumScape are heavily investing in this technology, and we can expect breakthroughs in battery chemistry and design in the coming years. The integration of Industry 4.0 technologies is revolutionizing automotive manufacturing. IoT, AI, and digital twins are becoming essential tools for improving efficiency, reducing downtime, and optimizing production processes. The push toward electrification is reshaping the automotive manufacturing landscape. By 2025, we will see increased investments in EV production as automakers cater to evolving consumer demands and regulatory pressures.

Its vehicle tracking system provides 24/7 real-time visibility, supported by self-install and engineer-fitted options, with no minimum fleet size required. With the introduction of 5G networks, advanced telematics features like real-time diagnostics, autonomous driving, and improved safety systems are becoming even more feasible. Canadian startup Xaba develops intelligent automation solutions, materials, and processes for sustainable manufacturing. Its AI-driven control systems, xCognition and xTrude, enhance industrial robotics and additive manufacturing by automating programming and improving precision. US-based startup Aviva Links builds in-vehicle connectivity solutions that include multi-gigabit Ethernet and ASA Motion Link (ASA-ML) semiconductor products for ADAS systems.

• Supply chains are being restructured to secure critical minerals and diversify chip sources.
• Autonomous driving is one of the most prominent applications of AI in the industry.
• Road safety, regulatory mandates, autonomous vehicle adoption, and smart city development drive this innovation.
• In 2022, the automotive industry’s automotive digital marketing spending increased to $17 billion and is predicted to keep growing in 2025.
• It then adjusts driving decisions to minimize motion sickness and maintain smooth operation.
• Probably the most important trend in the automotive industry is the worldwide shift to electric vehicles (EVs).
• Honda will be showing its Series 0 platform that will be used for its SAE Level 4 driverless car in 2026.

b. Charging Infrastructure Expansion

The study offers data-based insights and recommendations for action for decision-makers in the automotive sector. Gain in-depth insights into the key developments that characterise the automotive industry. The big data market in automotive is growing, with a projected market size of USD 5.92 billion in 2024, expanding at a CAGR of 16.78% to reach USD 12.86 billion by 2029. Startups are developing big data solutions to help manufacturers and related industries streamline operations and maximize profits. The Automotive Trends & Startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of trends that we identified during our data-driven innovation & startup scouting process.

Avvenire designs Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs)

Cybersecurity protects these connected systems, while regenerative braking and sustainable manufacturing practices reduce the environmental impact. EVs drive the shift to greener mobility and it is aided by advancements in semiconductors for smarter and efficient vehicles. OEMs are investing billions in EV platforms, battery R&D, and charging infrastructure partnerships. Legacy brands like Ford, GM, and Volkswagen are launching dedicated EV lines, while startups like Rivian and Lucid push luxury and performance boundaries.

• 94 percent of global automakers are using ARM-based technology for automotive applications, alongside the top 15 automotive semiconductor suppliers in the world adopting ARM technologies in their silicon.
• By leveraging tech and sustainable practices, the automotive sector can meet the challenges of tomorrow while delivering exceptional value to consumers.
• NVIDIA’s DRIVE Thor, for instance, offers up to 2000 TOPS of AI inference performance.
• IoT solutions can offer numerous benefits to end-users by utilizing interconnected systems, such as better safety, driving assistance, and predictive maintenance.
• Its RISC-V IP processors adopt 32/64-bit architectures supported by a nine-stage dual-issue pipeline.
• Full Level 4 and 5 autonomy remain years away due to regulatory, ethical, and technical challenges.
• All of this puts the auto industry at the back of the line when it comes to receiving chips.
• The automotive industry is being altered by the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is powering a new wave of smarter and more personalized innovations.
• Automotive semiconductors and sensor fusion enhance safety, efficiency, and intelligence.

It’s clear that a select subset of today’s consumers are willing to pay for high-end automobiles. Power say that sales of cars worth more than $100k were outselling lower-priced cars 3 to 1 in the first quarter of 2022. Instead, they get power from a fuel-cell stack that’s fed hydrogen and oxygen to create electricity through a chemical reaction. According to a study completed by INRIX Transportation, Honolulu, New Orleans, and Nashville are the three US cities that stand to gain the most from micromobility vehicles. The market for micromobility sat at $40 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow to $195 billion by 2030.

The industry trends show a positive perspective for the times to come despite the expected global slowdown and supply chain disruptions. As a car seller, dealer, or manufacturer, you must only build flexible yet solid automotive marketing strategies and create a strong sense of customer trust and loyalty. Make sure you stand out from your peers by focusing on every intricate detail through marketing and staying at the top of buyers’ minds. However, automotive executives need help as they focus on new technology that meets consumer and regulatory demands. This has led to a shift away from traditional automotive infrastructure, which focused on powertrains, interiors, electrical systems, and safety systems.

Top trends driving the automotive sector in 2025

• Asia, home to key production hubs, remains at the epicentre of attempts to address this crisis, with nations like Taiwan investing heavily in scaling chip production.
• Cox Automotive Industry Insights predicted total new-vehicle sales in 2022 of only 14.4 million units, a number that doesn’t even surpass 2020 sales volume.
• As we look ahead to 2025, these trends highlight the challenges and opportunities that manufacturers face.
• The systems that come together to implement such technologies are sensor fusion, computer vision, and real-time decisions to enable the vehicle to take all complex traffic scenarios easily.
• Australian startup V2Grid designs V2G technology that converts EVs into mobile energy resources for homes, businesses, and the national grid.

The number of connected cars worldwide will likely reach 400 million by 2025 up from 237 million in 2021. The startup also offers META, a compact shuttle for urban mobility; and SPACE for passenger transportation. These vehicles use a re-assembly factory model, which allows upgrades and updates to extend their lifecycle. Moreover, lightweight and bio-based materials are used to reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency, which aligns with sustainability goals. These pods use AI and machine learning algorithms for real-time perception and adaptive decision-making. The startup’s technology allows these pods to adapt across industries, enhancing efficiency and safety in transporting people and goods.

Transportation

Moreover, it ensures perception in challenging conditions such as night, rain, fog, and snow. Also, cloud and edge computing balance fleet-scale analytics with millisecond in-car inference. Digital twins validate updates virtually, with Stellantis using virtual engineering workbenches to test thousands of scenarios before rollout. In addition, Move-X supports over-the-air updates, ensures continuous improvement of system performance, and allows customization across diverse use cases. Moreover, its NuPort solution extends reliability by enabling connections between automotive components that support both diagnostics and long-term endurance. Its solution, carSECURITY, provides organizations with a complete cybersecurity process landscape.

• This rise in digital advertising spending is being steered by the growing usage of social media.
• These systems aim to minimise human intervention, improve decision-making, and enhance overall efficiency, paving the way for smarter supply chain operations.
• Additionally, it uses the Future Trends Index to identify and prioritize relevant design directions across different markets.
• Environmental concerns and technological innovations are advancing faster than many anticipated.
• The emergence of CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, and Electrified) technologies is changing the industry like never before.

By 2035, approximately 16% of all new LV (light vehicle) sales in the US are predicted to consist of advanced automated vehicles (L3, L4, and L5). New vehicle inventory levels till December 2022 were 52% below December 2019 but 56% above January 2022. On the other hand, personal vehicles are on the rise due to improving urban road infrastructure, and the popularity of pre-owned cars among young people is also driving the market growth. North American and European automakers offer consumers the option to buy vehicles online without visiting dealerships. With a computer or smartphone, buyers can choose desired features, secure financing, and even take virtual walk-around and test drives. In 2025, more dealerships are expected to offer online sales, vehicle inspection, and home delivery.

a. Carbon Neutrality Goals

In addition, SWYTCHD includes access to premium electric scooters and cars such as the Ola S1 Pro, Ather 450X, TVS iQube, and Nexon EV. This approach enhances road efficiency and reduces fuel consumption, thereby lowering emissions. Regulations such as Europe’s General Safety Regulation 2 (GSR2), US mandates for automatic emergency braking, and China’s target of 70% Level 2-3 adoption by 2025 compel automakers to improve deployment. Moreover, redundancy across sensor types improves resilience in poor weather or low visibility.

The startup enables automakers to reduce waste, optimize design processes, and advance sustainable manufacturing strategies. The automotive industry is one of the most severely affected by supply chain disruptions. Currently, its greatest challenge is uncertainty and instability, which are expected to persist this year.

While fully autonomous vehicles (AVs) are not yet standard on the roads, significant advancements are being made in 2025 toward realizing the vision of driverless cars. Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and others are working tirelessly to refine the technology, which includes machine learning, computer vision, and lidar (light detection and ranging) systems. The US-based startup Apex AI enables automotive companies to implement complex AI solutions. Apex.OS runs on automotive electronic control units (ECUs) and offers robust, reliable, and secure APIs to develop autonomous mobility solutions. ApexAutonomy offers modules to build 3D perception, localization, and control to enable autonomous vehicles.

On the bright side, partnerships between automakers and tech companies are fuelling innovation and accelerating development, bringing their vision of safer, smarter transportation closer to reality. In 2023, the global connected car market was valued at $80.87 billion and projecting remarkable growth. It is expected to expand from $95.14 billion in 2024 to $386.82 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.2% over the forecast period according to some figures. Discover trends, forecasts, and global developments shaping the future of mobility. These systems will become increasingly sophisticated, moving toward semi-autonomous driving capabilities and improving the overall driving experience. Environmental consciousness is driving the automotive industry toward more sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.

In 2025, a great number of car manufacturers are planning to improve their infotainment systems providing them with more and more advanced capabilities. Vehicle connectivity has become a really game-changing innovation in automotive industry that will transform the future of driving. Cars are becoming unprecedentedly smarter, and this trend is here to stay in the future. Seamless connectivity between automobiles, infrastructure, and pedestrians is expected to become commonplace and help increase traffic safety and improve driver experience.