Global Automotive Composite Liftgate Market By Type (Conventional Power Liftgate, Hands-free Power Liftgate), By Application (Sedan, SUV, Others), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 to 2032
Report Id: 44215 | Published Date: Jul 2024 | No. of Pages: 10 | Base Year for Estimate: Jul 2024 | Format:
Market Overview:
An automotive liftgate is a hydraulic device that automatically activates and assists the tailgate in opening and closing. An automotive liftgate is also made up of a mechatronic assembly with electronic latches, carrier parts and occlusions to open and close the tailboard. In keeping with the automotive industry’s push for electrification and sustainability, automotive composite liftgates of the future will also incorporate advanced features like integrated sensors and aerodynamic enhancements.
The global automotive composite liftgate market was valued at USD 1.33 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach about USD 2.52 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 9.26% from 2024-2032. The automotive liftgate industry is significantly driven by the growing demand for SUVs and the industry’s significant expansion owing to the anticipated increase in automobile production over the years. Furthermore, the government's stringent regulations aimed at reducing vehicle weight have increased demand for lightweight car liftgates.
Premium Insights:
Increasingly stringent fuel efficiency and emission regulations are propelling the adoption of lightweight composite liftgates.
Innovations in composite materials and manufacturing processes are driving the market forward.
Global Automotive Composite Liftgate Market Dynamics:
Drivers: Rising demand for SUVs, enhanced durability and corrosion resistance and growing consumer preference for advanced features.
-The popularity of SUVs and crossover vehicles with higher ground clearance is increasing globally. These vehicles often require stronger and lighter liftgates to handle heavier cargo loads. Composite liftgates offer a perfect balance of strength and weight, making them ideal for these vehicle segments.
-Composite materials are known for their excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. This is a major advantage over steel liftgates, which are susceptible to rust and require additional protective coatings.
-Consumers are increasingly interested in vehicles with advanced features, including power liftgates and hands-free operation. Composite liftgates can be easily integrated with these technologies due to their lighter weight and design flexibility.
Restraints: Higher initial cost compared to steel, limited production capacity, and environmental impact of manufacturing.
-The upfront cost of a composite liftgate can be higher than a traditional steel liftgate. This can be a barrier for some automakers, particularly for budget-oriented vehicle segments.
-Composite liftgates may require specialized manufacturing processes and tooling compared to steel. This can limit production capacity and pose challenges for scaling up production to meet increasing demand.
-The manufacturing process for some composite materials can involve higher energy consumption and potentially generate hazardous waste. Addressing these environmental concerns is crucial for wider market acceptance.
Opportunities: Advancements in composite material technology, focus on cost-effective manufacturing techniques and collaboration between material suppliers & automakers.
-Developments in composite materials with improved strength-to-weight ratios, affordability, and recyclability can further enhance the market potential.
-Optimizing manufacturing processes and exploring alternative materials can help reduce production costs and make composite liftgates more competitive with steel options.
-Strong collaboration between composite material suppliers and automakers can lead to joint development efforts, knowledge sharing, and the creation of cost-effective, high-performance composite liftgate solutions.
Market By Automotive Composite Liftgate Type Insights:
Based on vehicle type, the market is segmented into Hatchback, SUV and other vehicle types. The SUV segment accounts for the largest market share owing to their perceived safety benefits, versatility and spaciousness. However, the hatchback class is growing at the quickest rate due to growing consumer demand for small, fuel-efficient cars in the city.
Based on material type, the market is segmented into metal and composites. Metal continues to be the dominant material type, although composite-based liftgates are anticipated to grow at a faster rate. These liftgates have experienced a significant shift in material choices over time due to unavoidable constraints like government regulations etc., due to which the automotive industry is adopting lightweight materials, like long-fiber reinforced thermoplastics and sheet moulding compounds to make the final component light in weight without sacrificing the overall liftgate.
Based on the manufacturing process type, the market is segmented into Injection moulding and compression moulding processes. The injection moulding process dominates the market as it is able to create complex membrane structures on a large scale due to its versatility, effectiveness and efficiency.
Market By End-Use Insights:
Based on end-use, passenger cars hold the largest market share due to the rising popularity of SUVs and hatchbacks globally. These vehicles often benefit from the fuel efficiency and weight savings offered by composite liftgates. However, the market is experiencing a growing adoption of composite liftgates in commercial vans and trucks.
Market By Region Insights:
Based on regional coverage, the market is segmented into North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific. In 2023, Asia-Pacific held the largest market share. This rapid expansion can be attributed to factors such as China’s rapid industrialization, which has created a large demand for the automotive sector. In emerging economies like China and India where consumers value convenience above all else, the market for sedans with power liftgates has expanded in recent years.
Competitive Scenario:
Major players in this region include BMW AG, Peugeot, Plastic Omnium Group, Ford Motor Company, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., Group PSA, Groupe Renault, Magna International, Inc., The Volvo Group, and Trinseo S.A.
Scope of Work: Global Automotive Composite Liftgate Market
Key Market Developments:
August 2021- Magna International Inc. built a new facility for the production of lightweight thermoplastic liftgates in the United Kingdom. The thermoplastic liftgate on the new Qashqai weighs less than th steel model, which is in line with the growing trend of manufacturers minimising mass to improve fuel economy and lower emissions.
October 2022-Biocomposites, recyclability, CO2 reduction, and sustainability in the automotive industry have all advanced thanks to Faurecia. Among these initiatives are the creation of a new Sustainable Materials division and research and development centre, as well as the extension of the NAFILean materials family for sustainability and weight reduction.
July 2023- Volkswagen's US Innovation Hub, recently claimed four firsts in the fields of sustainable transportation and electric mobility. To help EVs travel farther, Volkswagen researchers are creating innovative material structures to lighten vehicles. The first pilot wants to swap out the EV battery pack's steel support structure for a lighter one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the current size of the global automotive composite liftgate market?
Ans. The global automotive composite liftgate market was valued at USD 1.33 billion in 2024
What are the main drivers of the automotive composite liftgate market?
Ans. The key drivers include the rising demand for SUVs, enhanced durability and corrosion resistance and growing consumer preference for advanced features.
What are the primary challenges faced by the automotive composite liftgate market?
Ans. Challenges include higher initial cost compared to steel, limited production capacity, and environmental impact of manufacturing.
What opportunities exist in the automotive composite liftgate market?
Ans. Opportunities include advancements in composite material technology, focus on cost-effective manufacturing techniques and collaboration between material suppliers & automakers.
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