Automobile Industry Market Research

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Automobiles & Trucks OVERVIEW

The automobile industry is undergoing one of the most transformative periods in its history.  Driven by shifting consumer demand, technological breakthroughs and geopolitical changes, automakers are rethinking everything from how vehicles are built to how they are used. 
1.  1.  Electric Vehicles: Progress and Challenges
Electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) remain the centerpiece of automotive innovation.  Manufacturers worldwide are investing billions in EV development and battery factories.  However, adoption has been slower than anticipated.  Many major manufacturers have significantly slowed their roll out of EV factories and new models.  Range anxiety, high retail prices, limited charging infrastructure and costly batteries continue to hinder growth.  U.S. sales remain modest, with mainstream buyers cautious despite government incentives.  Meanwhile, China has surged ahead, dominating the EV supply chain and offering affordable models that pressure global competitors
2.   2. Advances in Battery Technology
Battery research is critical to the future of EVs.  Companies are racing to create lighter, longer lasting and cheaper power storage solutions.  Innovations such as lithium ferrophosphate (LFP) batteries, lithium-silicon blends and sodium-ion alternatives show promise.  Tesla, Toyota and several startups are investing heavily in next-generation designs that could extend ranges to 400 to 600 miles while lowering costs.  If successful, these breakthroughs could reshape manufacturing economics and consumer adoption
3.  3.  Shifting Global Markets
China is firmly established as the world’s largest auto market, selling over 31 million vehicles in 2024.  Beyond sheer volume, Chinese automakers such as BYD are emerging as formidable exporters, especially in the EV segment.  India is another rising player, with rapid growth in domestic demand and exports.  Mexico has become a major hub for manufacturing and exports, particularly to the U.S., while Korea’s Hyundai and Kia continue to expand globally with affordable, high-quality models
4.   4. New Fuels and Efficiency Standards
While EVs dominate headlines, alternative fuels are gaining traction.  Natural gas-powered vehicles, ethanol blends and hydrogen fuel cells are increasingly viable for commercial fleets and long-haul trucking.  At the same time, automakers continue to pursue lighter materials, hybrid technologies and aerodynamic designs to meet evolving fuel efficiency and emissions standards.  Policy changes in the U.S. and EU will remain crucial in shaping future fuel economy targets.  The second Trump administration may dramatically reduce MPG requirements.
5.  5.  Digital Transformation of Cars
Vehicles are rapidly becoming computers on wheels.  Telematics, real-time traffic information, predictive diagnostics and infotainment systems are now standard features.  Cars can communicate with one another (V2V) and with infrastructure (V2I), paving the way for intelligent transportation systems.  Automakers are also exploring subscription-based services, creating new revenue streams beyond vehicle sales.
6.  6.  The Road Toward Autonomy and Ride-Hailing
Billions have been invested in self-driving technologies, though widespread adoption remains years away.  Companies like Waymo, Tesla and Aurora are testing autonomous cars and trucks, with potential to dramatically reduce accidents and reshape ownership patterns.  Meanwhile, ride-hailing firms such as Uber, Lyft and Didi are expanding globally and preparing for a future of driverless robotaxis.  This could significantly reduce private car ownership, especially in urban areas.
7.   7. Safety and Insurance Innovation
Automotive safety continues to improve with collision avoidance, lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control.  At the same time, insurers are leveraging artificial intelligence and telematics to adjust rates based on individual driving habits.  The gig economy and autonomous vehicles are creating new insurance challenges and opportunities.
8.  8.  The Future
The automobile industry is being redefined by electrification, new fuels, digital integration and evolving ownership models.  While challenges persist, especially in EV economics and infrastructure, the pace of change is accelerating.  Over the next decade, mobility will be shaped not only by automakers, but also by technology firms, energy companies and policy decisions around the world.
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The following is a partial listing for this industry. As a subscriber, you will have access to the leading companies and top growth companies. This includes publicly-held, private, subsidiary and joint venture companies, on a global basis as well as in the U.S.


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PLUNKETT PROVIDES UNIQUE ANALYSIS OF THE FOLLOWING TRENDS THAT ARE DRIVING THIS INDUSTRY:

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A complete market research report, including forecasts and market estimates, technologies analysis and developments at innovative firms within the Automobile Industry. Gain vital insights that can help shape strategy for business development, product development and investments.

Key Features:

  • Business trends analysis
  • In-depth industry overview
  • Technology trends analysis
  • Forecasts
  • Spending, investment, and consumption discussions
  • In-depth industry statistics and metrics
  • Industry employment numbers

Additional Key Features Include:
Industry Glossary

Industry Contacts list, including Professional Societies and Industry Associations

Profiles of industry-leading companies

  • U.S. and Global Firms
  • Publicly held, Private and Subsidiaries
  • Executive Contacts
  • Revenues

  • For Public Companies: Detailed Financial Summaries

  • Statistical Tables

Key Questions Answered Include:

  • How is the industry evolving?
  • How is the industry being shaped by new technologies?
  • How is demand growing in emerging markets and mature economies?
  • What is the size of the market now and in the future?
  • What are the financial results of the leading companies?
  • What are the names and titles of top executives?
  • What are the top companies and what are their revenues?

This feature-rich report covers competitive intelligence, market research and business analysis—everything you need to know about the Automobile Industry.

Plunkett Research Provides Unique Analysis of the Following Major Trends Affecting the Automobile Industry

  1. Major Trends Affecting the Automobile Industry

  2. Automobile Industry Introduction

  3. U.S. Auto Manufacturers Ford, Stellantis and GM Compete Head-On with Foreign Manufacturers

  4. U.S. Electric Vehicle (EV) Subsidies Expired in 2025/U.S. Auto Manufacturers Change Strategies

  5. Electric Cars (EVs) and Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) Spur Changes at Auto Makers

  6. Major Technology Research in Batteries/Major Investments in Battery Factories and Power Storage

  7. Natural Gas-Powered Vehicles Gain in Popularity/Long Term Potential Is Bright Thanks to Low Shale Gas Prices

  8. Fuel Efficiency Continues to Improve

  9. Ethanol Production Is Massive for Fuel Additives

  10. Cellulosic Ethanol Makes Slow Commercial Progress

  11. Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Power Research Continue/Fuel Cell Cars Enter Market

  12. China Is the World’s Largest Auto Market/ Becomes a Major Auto Exporter and EV Supply Chain Player

  13. India Has a Significant Automobile Market, with Great Long-Term Potential

  14. Mexico Is a Leading Automotive Maker and Exporter

  15. Focus on Safety Improvements by Automakers

  16. Wireless Information Systems Surge Ahead in Vehicles: Telematics, Intelligent Transportation (ITS) and Real-Time Traffic Information

  17. Insurance Underwriting Uses Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Policy Holders Allow Their Habits to Be Tracked for Lower Insurance Rates

  18. Uber, Lyft and Didi Dominate the Car on Demand (Ride Hailing) Industry

  19. Self-Driving, Autonomous Cars Receive Massive Investments in Research and Development Worldwide

  20. Gig Economy and Self-Driving Cars Pose Insurance Challenges and Underwriting Opportunities

Plunkett Research Provides In-Depth Tables for the Following Automobile Industry Statistics

  1. Automobile Industry Statistics and Market Size Overview

  2. General Motors Corporation Overview

  3. Ford Motor Company Overview

  4. Volkswagen Group Overview

  5. Toyota Motor Corporation Overview

  6. Mercedes-Benz Group Overview

  7. Hyundai Motor Group Overview

  8. Honda Motor Co. Overview

  9. Licensed Drivers, Vehicle Registrations & Resident Population, U.S.: 1960-2023

  10. Highest Fuel Economy by Vehicle Class: 2025 Model Year

  11. Lowest Fuel Economy by Vehicle Class: 2025 Model Year

  12. Gross Output in the Motor Vehicles & Transportation Equipment Manufacturing Industries: Selected Years, 2017-2023

  13. Personal Transportation Expenditures, U.S.: 2016-2024

  14. Average Miles Per Gallon vs. Horsepower, U.S.: 1975-2023

  15. Motor Vehicle Traffic Accidents in the U.S. by Type of Vehicle & Person: 2023-2016

  16. Value of Imports of Vehicles to the U.S.: 2018-2024

  17. Value of Exports of U.S. Vehicles: 2019-2024

  18. Occupational Employment and Wages for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics: May 2024

  19. Employment in the Automobile Industry, U.S.: 2018 - 2024

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This industry onlyPublication date: Sep 2025
ISBN-13: 978-1-64788-581-6
ISBN-13: 978-1-64788-089-7
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