Growth prospects for European automotive composites market

The future of the European automotive composites market looks good with growth opportunities in various applications exterior, interior, power train system, chassis system, under body system, and others. The European automotive composites market is expected to reach an estimated $4.1 billion by 2021 and it is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2016 to 2021. 

 

The major drivers of growth for this market are increasing automotive production and increasing demand for lightweight materials to achieve higher fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. European Union has set new standards requiring passenger cars need to meet a CO2 emissions target of 95 g/km (equivalent to 57.9 mpg) by 2021, and for light commercial vehicles it is 147 g/km (equivalent to 43.3 mpg) by 2020. The European commission proposal to improve European fuel economy standards serves as a major stimulus to incorporate lightweight materials including composites.

 

Emerging trends, which have a direct impact on the dynamics of the industry, include increasing penetration of thermoplastic and carbon composites. Another emerging trend is the formation of strategic alliances between OEMs and carbon fiber and resin suppliers in the automotive industry.