A sunroof is a panel on the roof of a vehicle that can be opened to allow light and fresh air into the cabin. Sunroofs are available in a variety of sizes and styles, and can be operated manually or automatically. Many modern sunroofs are also equipped with features like tinted glass, wind deflectors, and automatic closure. While sunroofs were once considered a luxury feature, they are now widely available on all types of vehicles, from economy cars to SUVs.
The automotive sunroofs industry was valued at USD 6.25 Billion in 2021. It is projected to grow to USD 10.91 Billion in 2027. This will register a CAGR above 9.1% over the forecast period (2022-2027).
Due to its effect on vehicle production and disruption of the supply chain in various parts of the globe, the COVID-19 pandemic has hampered the growth of the automotive sunroof industry.
The industry will be influenced positively by rising passenger vehicle sales and rising per capita income. Consumer spending on effective ventilation and brighter interiors will also increase. Technological advancements in sunroof material technology drive automobile sunroof market demand. The industry’s growth is being boosted by ongoing design improvements and material advances to reduce weight and provide stability.
Drivers in the Automotive Sunroof Industry
Sunroofs have become more popular due to their ability to provide optimal sunlight levels and improve vision inside the vehicle, thereby increasing the driving experience. Sunroofs are particularly popular with youth. Automakers started to include sunroofs on other segments of their vehicles. The market will also be driven by an increase in the per capita income or the buying power of consumers around the world.
Automotive sunroof sales are expected to grow due to improvements in sunroof material, product innovation, and increased popularity of sunroofs being a status symbol. To keep out unwanted heat and sunlight, many vehicles have tinted or UV-reflective lenses. A few sunroof manufacturers are installing sunroofs with more advanced features such as rain sensors and electronic control systems.
The Restraints of the Automotive Sunroof Industry
Sunroof-equipped vehicles are more expensive because they are associated with luxury and aesthetics, which drives up manufacturing costs. Sunroof maintenance is a costly component. It requires periodic maintenance, and in the event of a failure, it adds an additional cost to the owner.
The pandemic spread quickly, resulting in a drop in global vehicle production. Due to the forced shutdown of production and manufacturing activities, most businesses around the world were unable to continue to operate. This caused chaos in the global automotive sunroof market.
Automotive Sunroof Industry Trends:
One of the main factors that positively influence the market is the significant growth in the automobile industry. The market is also growing due to a rise in passenger vehicle sales and increasing consumer spending on efficient ventilation and brighter interiors that enhance the driving experience. The automotive sunroof is being upgraded by leading manufacturers. A wide range of glasses is being used by leading automobile manufacturers, including tempered, laminated, and glass.
These glasses can provide protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays. In light of increasing environmental concerns, key players have introduced the solar automotive sunroof. This is a cost-efficient, sustainable technology that will drive the market’s growth. Other growth-inducing factors include the rising sales of luxury and premium vehicles. Other factors that are expected to boost the market’s growth include the integration of rain sensors, the rising adoption of sunroofs for electric vehicles (EVs), and the increasing sales of EVs.
Some of the key players operating in this industry include Webasto, Inalfa, Inteva, Yachiyo, Mobitech, Aisin Seiki, Wanchao, Wuxi Mingfang, Johnan Manufacturing, Motiontec, Shenghua Wave, Donghee, Jincheng and DeFuLai.
Key Developments:
October 2017: Webasto presented its full-feature spoiler sunroof Hollandia 300 accessory as an aftermarket accessory.
July 2017: Inalfa Roof Systems introduced its new top-slider sunroofs that can be fitted by car manufacturers as OEM fittings.