The reduction in weight of vehicles for optimized efficiency, and increasing demand for comfort and luxury are some of the major factors, driving the growth of the global automotive seat market. The continuous developments to create an attractive manufacturing platform for cars and motorcycles, trade liberalization, free movement of goods, high investments, skilled and low cost labor, growing population, open flow of capital, increasing income levels and government support for foreign direct investments (FDIs) are some of the other factors, influencing the growth of the global automotive seats market. The need to develop raw materials, in order to improve efficiency and reduce cost is also driving the growth of the global market.
Most vehicle seats are made from durable material to withstand prolonged use. Polyester is the most common material used in the seats of automobiles. Some vehicle models offer fold-down rear seats to accommodate luggage, when they are not occupied by travellers. Some vehicle seat systems are set up with a battery-powered automatic control to adjust seat flexibility in the car. The individual vehicle seats usually have rounded backs and offer a variety of adjustments to fit users. Various flexible adjustments are provided by automotive seats, such as adjustment of backrest angle, cushion edge, armrest, seat height, fore and aft position and others.
Automotive manufacturers have developed powered and heated seats, which enhance the comfort and luxury of vehicles, and eliminate manual adjustment of standard seats. The powered and heated seat segment witnessed an increased demand from the developed regions. North America dominated the global automotive seat market in 2014. Europe is expected to witness the penetration of lightweight and technologically advanced seating systems, due to growing fuel efficiency regulations and stringent emission norms in near future. China is the largest market for automotive seats in Asia-Pacific. The automotive consumers in Asia-Pacific are inclined towards enhanced safety and comfort. Automotive manufacturers are attempting to develop high-performance and cost-effective seating systems, for meeting consumer expectations in the region.
Short technology life cycle of seats is a major challenge in the growth of the global automotive seat market. Johnson Controls Inc., Lear Corporation, AISIN SEIKI Co. Ltd., Gentherm, Magna International, TACHI-S Co. Ltd., NHK SPRING Co. Ltd., TS TECH Co. Ltd., TOYOTA BOSHOKU CORPORATION, and Faurecia Automotive Seating Inc. are some of the major competitors of the global automotive seat market. The continuous product development and expansion, in terms of production capacity and geographical presence are the key strategies adopted by major players to enhance growth opportunities in the global automotive seats market. The issues related to global warming and depletion of energy resources are compelling automobile manufacturers to develop new products and technologies, for the automotive industry. As automotive seats utilize up to 8.3% of plastic, the automobile manufacturers have started to use natural fiber composites, which is expected to replace plastics in the coming years.
Global Automotive Seat Market Segmentation:
By Seat Cover Material
- Genuine Leather
- Synthetic Leather
- Fabric
By Technology
- Powered
- Heated
- Powered and Heated
- Standard
By Vehicle Type
- Hatchback
- Sedan
- SUV/MUV
- Others
- LCV
- Truck
- Bus
By Type
By Geography
- North America
- U.S.
- Canada
- Rest of North America
- Europe
- U.K.
- Germany
- France
- Rest of Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- Australia
- Japan
- India
- China
- Rest of APAC
- Rest of the World
