Automotive Glazing Market Size, Share, Industry, Forecast and outlook (2024-2031)

Global Automotive Glazing Market is segmented By Product Type (Tempered Glass, Laminated Glass, Polycarbonate), By Vehicles Type (Passenger Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles), By Propulsion (Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), Electric), By Application (Front Windshield, Backlite, Sidelite, Quarter Glass, Panoramic Sunroof/ Roof Modules, Others), By Sales Channel (OEMs, Aftermarket) and By Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa) – Share, Size, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2024-2031

Report Overview

Global Automotive Glazing Market reached US$ 19.34 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 28.19 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

The automotive glazing market encompasses various types of glass used in vehicles, including windshields, side windows, rear windows and panoramic roofs. This market is driven by the increasing demand for safety, aesthetics and enhanced driving experience in automobiles. According to the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA), in 2022 approximately 85.4 million vehicles, marking a 5.7% increase compared to the previous year. This increase in vehicle production directly boosts the demand for automotive glazing components.

Recent trends indicate a growing shift towards advanced glazing technologies. Manufacturers are incorporating features such as heat resistance, UV protection and acoustic insulation into automotive glass to improve vehicle comfort and safety. Europe. For instance, in January 2021, GM announced its new electric car, Cadillac Celestiq, which will come with a smart glass roof. The development of advanced ADAS systems in new automobiles will also contribute to growth in the industry.

Emerging markets in Asia-Pacific, particularly China and India, are contributing to this growth due to increased vehicle ownership and infrastructure development. Key players also support market growth by meeting the increasing requirements for automotive glazing in the region, driven by both production needs and technological advancements in vehicle design. For instance, Saint-Gobain SA's acquisition of a 50% stake in China-based JJG Group, which operates a flat glass production line with an annual capacity of approximately 160,000 metric tons, significantly impacts the Asia-Pacific automotive glazing market.

Market Scope

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Market Dynamics

Rising Demand for Electric and Autonomous Vehicles

The shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles is driving innovation in automotive glazing. These vehicles frequently need custom glass solutions to support updated design elements and improve functionality. For instance, electric vehicles are incorporating panoramic roofs and expansive glass surfaces as a common feature, aiming to enhance aesthetics and the overall driving experience.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Almost 14 million new electric cars were registered globally in 2023, bringing their total number on the roads to 40 million. Furthermore, electric car sales in 2023 were 3.5 million higher than in 2022, a 35% year-on-year increase. This is more than six times higher than in 2018, just 5 years earlier. This growth stimulates demand for advanced automotive glazing solutions.

Consumer Preference for Enhanced Vehicle Comfort and Aesthetics

Modern consumers increasingly prioritize comfort and aesthetics in their vehicle choices. Automotive glazing plays a crucial role in enhancing vehicle comfort through features like UV protection, glare reduction and improved visibility. In 2023, BMW presented the iVision Dee concept vehicle. This featured smart glass for every window, including the windscreen (for a head-up display). 

Similarly, Volkswagen, BYD, Cadillac, Toyota, Lotus and Renault have all recently announced or released vehicles featuring smart windows, either as standard equipment or as an option at extra cost. In some cases, the glass itself is branded, with the intention of it being available across the future range, such as Mercedes ‘Magic Sky Control’ and Renault’s ‘Solarbay’. This adoption driving automakers to incorporate advanced glazing technologies into their vehicles, further boosting market demand.

Fluctuating Cost of Raw Material & Strict Regulation

The manufacturing of automotive glass heavily depends on materials such as soda lime, borosilicate and laminated glass, which are susceptible to price changes caused by disruptions in the supply chain and fluctuations in market demand. For instance, the price of soda lime glass has seen fluctuations between 5% to 15% annually over the past few years, affecting the overall cost structure for manufacturers.

Similarly, Global manufacturers may find compliance challenging due to varying standards and regulations for automotive glazing across different regions. As an illustration, the European Union has strict criteria for automotive safety glass, which includes precise regulations for impact resistance and UV protection. Following these rules necessitates more testing and certification, leading to higher costs and a longer time before market launch.

Market Segment Analysis

The global automotive glazing market is segmented based on product type, vehicle type, propulsion, application, sales channel and region.

Growing Awareness for Laminating Glazing Driven 

The demand for laminated glazing in the automotive market is rising due to increasing safety, comfort and energy efficiency needs. Laminated glazing, consisting of dual glass layers separated by a plastic interlayer, provides enhanced protection from impacts, decreased noise and improved thermal insulation. This has made it a favored option in luxury and electric cars, as well as a reaction to worldwide safety standards.

Government regulations that encourage the use of laminated glass, especially in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, are key drivers of growth. The demand for improved noise insulation and energy efficiency is driving growth in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. Moreover, laminated glass is becoming a common inclusion in high-end cars, improving passenger comfort by decreasing UV exposure, lowering interior temperatures and providing a more peaceful journey.

Manufacturers are concentrating on lightweight laminated glazing solutions in order to comply with fuel efficiency and emission regulations. New developments like solar-protective laminated glass and merging with smart technologies such as head-up displays (HUDs) are influencing the future of this industry.

Market Geographical Share

Rising Vehicle Production and Advanced Manufacturing Capabilities in Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific holds the largest market share in the global automotive glazing (DRL) market, driven by rising vehicle ownership rates. China's total vehicle sales in 2023 stood at 30,094,000 units. With the first six months accounting for 43% of the total annual sales made for 2023, the annual figure is expected to surpass 22 million units in 2024, according to the China Passenger Car Association. Similarly, in 2024, the Indian automotive market produced over 28.3 million vehicles, making it one of the fastest-growing markets globally, making it one of the fastest-growing markets globally.

Furthermore, the region benefits from a robust supply chain. The region is home to several leading automotive glazing manufacturers, such as Fuyao Glass Industry Group Co., Ltd. and Xinyi Glass Holdings Limited, which cater to both domestic and international markets. These companies have leveraged cost advantages, advanced manufacturing capabilities and proximity to major automotive OEMs to strengthen their market presence.

Market Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include AGC Inc, Central Glass Co., Corning Incorporated, Fuyao Glass Industry Group Co., Ltd., Guardian Industries, Saint-Gobain, Şişecam, TAIWAN GLASS IND. CORP., Vitro and Xinyi Glass Holdings Limited.

Sustainability Analysis

Sustainability has become a critical focus in the automotive glazing market, as manufacturers and consumers alike prioritize eco-friendly solutions. According to US Environmental Protection Agency, in 2023 Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation account for about 28 percent of total US greenhouse gas emissions. Lightweight automotive glazing can help reduce the overall weight of a vehicle, which in turn reduces fuel consumption and emissions.

Furthermore, manufacturers are increasingly adopting circular economy principles, focusing on designing automotive glazing solutions that are easier to recycle. The European Union's Circular Economy Action Plan has set ambitious recycling targets, with an emphasis on reducing the use of virgin materials. Automotive glass recycling rates in Europe have already surpassed 85%, driven by regulatory measures and industry-led initiatives.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact

The Russia-Ukraine war has had a significant impact on various industries, including the automotive glazing market. The European automotive industry, which accounts for a significant share of global automotive production, has been particularly affected. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA), production in Europe was down by around 16% in 2022 compared to pre-crisis levels. This downturn has impacted the demand for automotive glazing products, as lower vehicle production naturally leads to reduced orders for glass components.

Additionally, the war has led to increased fuel prices and inflation, reducing consumer purchasing power and slowing down automotive sales in key markets. This slowdown is reflected in the decline in car sales in Europe, which dropped by 4.6% in 2022, according to ACEA data. The resulting decrease in vehicle demand has had a ripple effect on the automotive glazing market, as manufacturers have scaled back production.

By Product Type

• Tempered Glass
• Laminated Glass
• Polycarbonate

By Vehicles Type

• Passenger Vehicles
• Commercial Vehicles

By Propulsion

• Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)
• Electric

By Application

• Front Windshield
• Backlite
• Sidelite
• Quarter Glass
• Panoramic Sunroof/ Roof Modules
• Others

By Sales Channel

• OEMs
• Aftermarket

Region

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of South America
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

• In June 2024, the Certification Alliance for Vehicles (CAV) issued new implementing regulations titled "Certification Rules for Glazing Materials of Power-driven Vehicles," which established updated requirements and procedures for certifying safety glass in motor vehicles by the Chinese government. The regulations emphasize the importance of CCAP/CQC certification for glazing materials in the automotive sector, making it a mandatory step for obtaining approval for import and distribution in China. 
• In May 2022, NSG Group revealed a strategic decision to merge its automotive glass division in China with SYP Kangqiao Autoglass Co., Ltd., a leading domestic producer. This integration is intended to improve NSG Group's capacity to address the increasing needs of car producers in the Chinese market. NSG Group aims to enhance its presence and abilities in a major automotive market by partnering with SYP Automotive, to better address changing market demands.
• In July 2021, Jeep's Performance Parts division (JPP) unveiled a groundbreaking advancement in automotive glass with the introduction of Gorilla Glass windshields for its Wrangler SUV and Gladiator pick-up truck models. Developed in collaboration with Corning, these new windshields feature a robust design, combining an ultra-thin Gorilla Glass inner ply with a 52 percent thicker outer ply, enhancing durability and resistance. 

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the global automotive glazing market is segmented based on product type, vehicle type, propulsion, application, sales channel and region.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development. 
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of the automotive glazing market level with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global automotive glazing market report would provide approximately 78 tables, 72 figures and 205 pages.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies