Latest Trends Showcased at Prominent Asian Automotive Exhibitions: An Insight into the Current Motor Show Fads
The Asian automotive industry is witnessing a transformative period, with a focus on electric mobility, the rise of Chinese manufacturers, and advancements in autonomous driving technology.
### Electric Vehicles: A Growing Trend
The light vehicle market in Asia experienced a 4.1% growth in 2024, primarily driven by the surge in electric vehicle (EV) sales. These sales reached an impressive 17.4 million units, with 63% being battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and 37% plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
Countries like Thailand are aiming for a 30% zero-emission vehicle share by 2030, with EV production increasing by 58 times from 2023 to 2024. South Korea and Thailand already have an electric vehicle share exceeding 30%. In the ASEAN region, countries such as Indonesia are seeing a rise in EV demand due to the presence of Chinese manufacturers like SAIC-GM-Wuling.
### The Rise of Chinese Manufacturers
China led the automotive market in Asia with a 5.7% year-over-year growth in vehicle sales in 2024. A prominent Chinese EV manufacturer, BYD, recorded a 43% increase in sales from 2023 to 2024, highlighting China’s influence on the global EV market.
### Advancements in Autonomous Driving Technology
While specific data on autonomous driving advancements in Asia is limited, the region is investing in technological innovations, including smart diagnostic kits for EVs, as seen in Thailand's EV incentive plans. The Southeast Asia Automotive Supply Chain Conference discussed new trends and technologies in the automotive sector, indicating a focus on innovation and collaboration.
### ASEAN Automotive Aftermarket
The ASEAN aftermarket is expected to grow significantly, driven by demand for parts due to aging vehicle fleets and infrastructure challenges. This growth also supports the development of electric vehicle-compatible aftermarket parts.
### Showcasing the Trends: Motor Shows and Exhibitions
Major motor shows such as the 2024 China Auto Forum, GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show, Bangkok International Motor Show, and Auto China 2024 are key platforms for showcasing these trends.
At these events, Chinese manufacturers like GWM and XPeng showcased electric city cars and comprehensive NEV lineups tailored for Southeast Asian markets. Brands like BYD, Changan, and VinFast unveiled their latest BEV models at Thailand's Bangkok International Motor Show 2024.
Avatr Technology, a Chinese manufacturer, plans to equip all its models with Huawei's Intelligent Driving Solution, demonstrating the synergy between the automotive and technology sectors in China.
### The Role of Autonomous Vehicles
Autonomous vehicles are poised to play a crucial role in the rapidly growing ride-hailing and car-sharing markets in Asia, where driver supply often lags behind demand. Online searches for "intelligent driving" have shown exponential growth, indicating a shift in consumer priorities toward sustainable and technologically advanced vehicles.
In many Asian cities, public transportation is often inadequate, and autonomous vehicles could serve as a valuable solution for urban transit challenges. The Beijing Motor Show featured a diverse range of form factors catering to various consumer needs, showcasing China's capability to produce competitive and appealing automotive solutions.
As the Asian automotive industry continues to evolve, it's clear that electric vehicles, Chinese manufacturers, and autonomous driving technology will remain key drivers of change.
- The growth in electric vehicle (EV) sales in Asia contributed to a 4.1% increase in the light vehicle market in 2024, with 63% of the sales being battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and 37% plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
- Countries like Thailand are aiming for a 30% zero-emission vehicle share by 2030, with EV production increasing by 58 times from 2023 to 2024, indicating a significant shift towards electric mobility in the Asian industry.
- Chinese manufacturers, such as BYD, are gaining influence in the global EV market, with BYD recording a 43% increase in sales from 2023 to 2024.
- Advancements in autonomous driving technology are evident in Asia, where countries are investing in technological innovations like smart diagnostic kits for EVs, as seen in Thailand's EV incentive plans.
- The growing trend towards EV adoption and autonomous driving technology is being showcased at major motor shows and exhibitions across Asia, with Chinese manufacturers like GWM, XPeng, BYD, Changan, and VinFast showcasing their latest hybrid and electric vehicle models.
