Automotive Starter Motor Market Size, Share, and Trends 2024 to 2034

Automotive Starter Motor Market Size and Forecast 2024 to 2034

The global automotive starter motor market size is expected to be valued at USD 34.29 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach around USD 53.25 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 4.5% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2034.

Automotive Starter Motor Market Key Takeaways

• By region, Asia-Pacific contributed more than 41% of revenue share in the automotive starter motor market in 2023. North America region is estimated to expand the fastest CAGR between 2024 and 2034.
• By vehicle type, the commercial vehicles segment has held the largest market share of 65% in 2023. On the other hand, the passenger cars segment is anticipated to grow at a remarkable CAGR of 5.8% between 2024 and 2034.
• By application type, the internal combustion engine (IC engine) segment had the largest market share of 60% in 2023. Whereas the hybrid/micro-hybrid powertrain segment is expected to expand at the fastest CAGR over the projected period.
• By type, the electric segment had the largest market share of 32% in 2023. On the other hand, the hydraulic segment is expected to expand at the fastest CAGR over the projected period.
• By sales channel, the OEM segment had the largest market share of 55% in 2023. Meanwhile, the replacement/aftermarket segment is expected to expand at the fastest CAGR over the projected period.

Asia Pacific Automotive Starter Motor Market Size and Growth 2024 to 2034

The Asia Pacific automotive starter motor market size is accounted for USD 14.06 billion in 2024 and is projected to be worth around USD 22.10 billion by 2034, poised to grow at a CAGR of 4.63% from 2024 to 2034.

Asia-Pacific held the largest revenue share 41% in 2023. The preeminence of the region in the automotive starter motor market can be attributed to a constellation of distinctive factors. This geographical domain encompasses some of the globe's most expansive and swiftly advancing automotive markets, with China and India serving as prime examples. The burgeoning middle-class population and ongoing urbanization in this territory have engendered an escalating appetite for vehicles, thereby propelling the demand for starter motors. Furthermore, the Asia-Pacific region boasts major automotive manufacturing centers and exhibits a notable inclination towards electric mobility, both of which converge to bolster its dominance in the automotive starter motor market. In essence, it stands as an automotive epicenter, wielding considerable influence in the industry.

North America is estimated to observe the fastest expansion. North America maintains significant growth in the automotive starter motor market due to several key factors. The region boasts a well-established automotive industry with a substantial number of vehicles on the road, creating a continuous demand for starter motor replacements. Stringent environmental regulations have prompted automakers to adopt advanced starter motor technologies. Moreover, a higher consumer preference for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs in North America contributes to greater starter motor usage. The presence of prominent automotive manufacturers, coupled with a growing market for electric vehicles, further solidifies North America's prominent growth in the automotive starter motor market.

Market Overview

The automotive starter motor market represents the domain dedicated to the production and distribution of initiation mechanisms for internal combustion engines in vehicles. These crucial components kickstart the rotational action of the engine, enabling the vehicle's ignition. This realm encompasses a diverse array of starter motor varieties, ranging from conventional electric starters to cutting-edge, eco-conscious designs. Its dynamics are shaped by factors such as evolving trends in automotive production, technological innovations, and consumer preferences for eco-friendly, energy-efficient options. This arena is characterized by fierce competition, as numerous manufacturers and suppliers vie to offer dependable and cost-effective starter motor solutions to the automotive sector.

Automotive Starter Motor Market Growth Factors

• A foundational catalyst for the automotive starter motor market revolves around the ceaseless surge in global automobile production. As the world's populace swells and urbanization maintains its momentum, the unrelenting need for personal and commercial vehicles propels the demand for starter motors across the automotive spectrum, from passenger cars to heavy-duty commercial rigs. Furthermore, emerging economies in developing nations exhibit remarkable increase in vehicle production, providing an added impetus.
• Unceasing progress in the realm of starter motor technology wields significant influence. Perpetual innovation yields more efficient and dependable starter motor systems. These transformative innovations encompass the integration of intelligent and energy-frugal starter motors, enhancing not only reliability but also fuel efficiency and environmental impact reduction. Often, stringent emissions directives necessitate these advancements, intensifying their contribution to market expansion.
• The burgeoning adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) casts another profound influence on the automotive starter motor market. EVs depend on starter motors for auxiliary functionalities, such as climate control and power-assisted steering. As the EV sector flourishes, the demand for starter motors tailored to the distinctive demands of electric mobility experiences upward trajectory.
• Environmental apprehensions and strict emission regulations compel automakers to conceive more fuel-sparing vehicles. Starter motors play a pivotal role in ameliorating a vehicle's fuel efficiency by curtailing idling periods and enabling start-stop systems. With regulations escalating globally, the call for sophisticated starter motor systems that align with these mandates burgeons.
• Emerging markets, particularly in Asia, Latin America, and Africa, witness a remarkable surge in vehicle ownership. With a growing middle class in these regions, vehicle ownership rises, resulting in augmented demand for starter motors in new vehicles and as replacements in older ones. The growth trajectory of the automotive starter motor market remains intricately linked to the economic advancement of these areas.
• The global trend towards urbanization kindles the desire for compact vehicles tailored for urban landscapes. These vehicles often encompass start-stop systems to diminish fuel consumption amidst urban traffic conditions. This accentuates the demand for sophisticated starter motor systems proficient in handling frequent engine restarts, amplifying market expansion.
• The amalgamation of starter motor systems with other vehicle components, such as hybrid mechanisms and regenerative braking systems, is increasingly prevalent. This not only enhances overall vehicle performance but also augments the automotive starter motor market, as these systems grow more intricate and integral to modern vehicles.

Market Scope

Market Dynamics

Driver

Increasing vehicle production 

The inexorable upswing in vehicle production serves as a pivotal catalyst propelling the growth of the automotive starter motor market. The incessant global population expansion coupled with the pervasive wave of urbanization fuels an unyielding appetite for a diverse array of vehicles. This escalating demand transcends the automotive spectrum, encompassing passenger cars, heavy-duty trucks, and various modes of transportation, all of which rely on starter motors as the crucial ignition enabler. 

Furthermore, the emergence of burgeoning economies, especially in the likes of India, China, and Brazil, where a burgeoning middle class craves personal and commercial vehicles, intensifies the clamor for starter motors. These dynamic economies emerge as epicenters of automotive manufacturing, magnifying the market's reach and influence. Additionally, the aftermarket segment for starter motors, driven by the surge in vehicle production, takes on a profound significance.

With a mounting population of vehicles on the road, the inevitable wear and tear on incumbent starter motors spark a perpetual demand for replacements and enhancements, thereby ensuring the market's continuous expansion. In essence, the automotive starter motor market derives its vital impetus from the relentless escalation in vehicle production, solidifying its enduring growth and relevance.

Restraint

Shift to electric vehicles (EVs)  

The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is serving as a prominent restraint on the growth of the automotive starter motor market. As EVs gain traction and market share, they pose a significant challenge to the traditional automotive starter motor industry. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric vehicles do not rely on conventional starter motors for engine ignition. This fundamental difference in propulsion systems reduces the demand for traditional starter motors, particularly in the segment of the automotive market that transitions to electric mobility.

As governments worldwide emphasize sustainability and offer incentives for EV adoption, consumers are increasingly drawn to electric vehicles. This transition away from ICE vehicles limits the growth prospects of starter motor manufacturers, as they face a shrinking market for their products. Consequently, the automotive starter motor industry must adapt by diversifying its product offerings, exploring alternative markets, and innovating in response to the changing landscape of the automotive industry to mitigate the impact of the EV shift.

Opportunity

Innovation in start-stop systems

The innovation in start-stop systems unfolds a substantial canvas of opportunities within the automotive starter motor market. The advent of start-stop technology, a design aimed at augmenting fuel efficiency and curbing emissions, has taken center stage in contemporary vehicles. This system orchestrates the automatic halting of the engine when the vehicle idles, only to reignite it seamlessly upon the driver's acceleration. This recurrent cycle of engine stoppage and reactivation places distinct demands on the starter motor, necessitating the development of sturdier and more resilient solutions.

Hence, a burgeoning requirement arises for advanced starter motor systems, adept at efficiently managing the increased frequency of engine starts. Manufacturers are positioned to embark on the creation of starter motors featuring heightened durability, expedited response times, and optimized thermal regulation. These innovations not only bolster the efficacy of start-stop systems but also contribute to the overarching goal of vehicle efficiency and environmental sustainability. As the automotive sector persistently champions fuel economy and emissions mitigation, the crafting of starter motors tailored to these technological strides unfolds as a significant avenue for expansion for manufacturers.

Vehicle Type Insights

According to the vehicle type, the commercial vehicles segment has held a 65% revenue share in 2023. The commercial vehicles segment commands a significant share in the automotive starter motor market due to the distinctive demands of heavy-duty applications. Commercial vehicles, such as trucks and buses, require robust and durable starter motors capable of handling larger engines and frequent starts. They operate under demanding conditions, often in harsh environments and with higher load capacities, necessitating dependable starter motor systems. As a result, manufacturers have developed specialized starter motors for commercial vehicles, making this segment a major contributor to the market's overall revenue, driven by the substantial global presence of commercial fleets and logistics operations.

The passenger cars segment is anticipated to expand at a significant CAGR of 5.8% during the projected period. The passenger car segment is expected to witness significant growth in the automotive starter motor market due to their sheer volume and broad consumer base. Passenger cars are the most commonly owned and driven vehicles, making them a dominant force in the market. Additionally, modern passenger cars often feature advanced starter motor technology, including start-stop systems, which require reliable and efficient starter motors. As fuel efficiency and emission standards continue to shape the automotive industry, the development of starter motors tailored to passenger cars is essential. This segment's substantial market growth is further reinforced by urbanization trends and increasing global car ownership.

Application Type Insights

Based on the application type, the Internal Combustion Engine (IC Engine) segment is anticipated to hold the largest market share of 60% in 2023. The Internal combustion engine (IC Engine) segment retains a major share in the automotive starter motor market due to the prevalence of traditional combustion engine vehicles. Despite the rise of electric vehicles, IC engine vehicles still dominate global roads. These vehicles require starter motors for engine ignition, ensuring a continuous demand for these components. Furthermore, the extensive existing IC engine vehicle fleet in mature markets and the ongoing production of such vehicles in emerging economies sustain the prominence of this segment in the starter motor market.

On the other hand, the hybrid/micro-hybrid powertrain segment is projected to grow at the fastest rate over the projected period. The dominant growth of the hybrid/micro-hybrid powertrain segment within the automotive starter motor market is primarily attributed to the burgeoning acceptance of hybrid and micro-hybrid vehicles. These innovative transportation solutions rely on cutting-edge starter motor technology to adeptly manage the frequent cycles of engine start and stop.

The surging global demand for environmentally conscious and fuel-efficient modes of transportation serves as a potent catalyst propelling this segment to the forefront. Additionally, the rigorous emissions regulations imposed by governing bodies have further thrust this sector into the spotlight, as hybrid and micro-hybrid powertrains emerge as a compelling strategy for curbing carbon emissions. As the automotive industry steadfastly advances in the pursuit of sustainable technologies, the hybrid/micro-hybrid powertrain segment maintains its commanding growth within the starter motor market.

Type Insights

Based on the type, the electric segment is anticipated to hold the largest market share of 32% in 2023. The electric segment holds a major share in the automotive starter motor market primarily due to the rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs require starter motors for auxiliary systems, such as power steering and air conditioning, thereby contributing significantly to the demand. The growing global emphasis on environmental sustainability and stringent emissions regulations is driving the shift towards electric mobility, further boosting the electric starter motor segment. As EVs continue to gain popularity, this segment is expected to maintain and potentially expand its substantial market share in the automotive starter motor industry.

On the other hand, the hydraulic segment is projected to grow at the fastest rate over the projected period. The hydraulic segment holds a significant share in the automotive starter motor market due to its reliability and robust performance. Hydraulic starter motors are widely used in heavy-duty applications, such as commercial trucks and industrial machinery, where consistent and powerful engine ignition is crucial. Their ability to generate high torque even in harsh conditions makes them the preferred choice. Additionally, hydraulic starter motors require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan, reducing operational costs. As industries continue to rely on heavy machinery, the demand for reliable and durable hydraulic starter motors remains strong, sustaining their major market share.

Sales Channel Insights

Based on the sales channel, the OEM segment is anticipated to hold the largest market share of 55% in 2023. The OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) segment holds a major share in the automotive starter motor market primarily due to its direct integration into the manufacturing process of new vehicles. OEMs are the initial suppliers of starter motors to automakers, ensuring that each vehicle is equipped with a compatible and high-quality starter motor system. This strategic positioning grants them a significant share as they establish long-term partnerships with automotive manufacturers, benefiting from the consistent demand generated by the production of new vehicles. Additionally, OEMs are often at the forefront of innovation, offering advanced starter motor solutions tailored to modern vehicle requirements.

On the other hand, the replacement/aftermarket metal segment is projected to grow at the fastest rate over the projected period. The replacement/aftermarket segment commands a significant share in the automotive starter motor market due to several factors. As vehicles age and require maintenance, there's a sustained demand for starter motor replacements. Additionally, consumer preferences for vehicle upgrades, enhanced performance, and customization contribute to this segment's prominence.

The availability of advanced and high-quality aftermarket starter motor options, often at competitive prices, offers consumers a cost-effective alternative to purchasing brand-new vehicles. Moreover, the increasing average age of vehicles on the road in mature markets further bolsters the Replacement/Aftermarket segment's importance, making it a substantial and enduring component of the automotive starter motor market.

Automotive Starter Motor Market Companies

• Bosch
• Denso Corporation
• Valeo
• Hitachi Automotive Systems
• Mitsubishi Electric
• Mitsuba Corporation
• Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.
• BorgWarner Inc.
• Mahle GmbH
• Prestolite Electric
• Lucas Electrical
• ASIMCO
• Remy International, Inc.

Recent Developments

• In 2021, SEG Automotive introduced an upgraded version of its SC60 and S78 starter motors, setting new benchmarks in the industry. The SC60, touted as one of the most compact in its class, is tailored to snugly fit into smaller vehicles, particularly compact cars. It impressively delivers up to 1.2kW of starting power, ensuring reliable ignition. In parallel, the S78 platform for start-stop motors offers a substantial power output of up to 2.2kW. This technology not only enhances the efficiency of start-stop systems but also caters to more demanding applications, particularly in larger and more power-hungry vehicles.

Segments Covered in the Report

By Vehicle Type

• Passenger Cars
• Commercial Vehicles 

By Application Type

• Internal Combustion Engine (IC Engine)
• Hybrid/Micro-Hybrid Powertrain

By Type

• Electric
• Pneumatic
• Hydraulic
• Starter Motor Generator

By Sales Channel

• OEM
• Replacement/Aftermarket

By Geography

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa