Automotive Lightweight Material Market Outlook - Forecast Trends, Market Size, Share and Growth Analysis Report (2025-2034)

The global automotive lightweight material market attained a value of nearly USD 189.27 Billion in 2024. The market is further expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.00% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to reach a value of USD 372.32 Billion by 2034.

Key Trends and Developments

The automotive lightweight material market is expanding due to the rising demand for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, the growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), advancements in material technology, and a greater use of aluminium and composites in vehicle manufacturing.

February 2025

Researchers at the University of Toronto developed an ultra-lightweight material stronger than titanium by combining machine learning with nanotechnology. Using Bayesian optimisation, they created carbon nanorods with optimal geometries, doubling the strength of previous materials. These structures, five times stronger than titanium, promise significant advances in aerospace and automotive industries.

January 2025

Gestamp unveiled its innovative products at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, focusing on lightweight, sustainable materials. The company introduced GES-GIGASTAMPING® and Highpertubes, improving vehicle safety and energy efficiency. Gestamp also committed to net-zero emissions by 2050, emphasizing CO₂ reduction, recycling, and green electricity adoption by 2030.

July 2024

LyondellBasell introduced a new polyamide compound, Schulamid ET100, designed for automotive interior applications like door window frames. The material’s excellent melt flow characteristics enable easy moulding of complex parts, reducing defects and surface imperfections. It is lightweight, reduces carbon emissions, and eliminates the need for painting, lowering VOC emissions.

June 2024

Navrattan Group launched a new E-Bus made from advanced glass fibre composite materials, reducing weight and improving efficiency. The lightweight design enhances fuel efficiency, reduces road wear, and is ideal for India’s diverse road conditions. The durable materials lower maintenance costs, offering a cost-effective and sustainable solution for public transport.

Growing Demand for Fuel Efficiency and Emissions Reduction is Providing Several Opportunities in the Automotive Lightweight Material Market

The automotive lightweight material market is expanding due to the rising demand for fuel-efficient vehicles and stricter emissions regulations. To enhance fuel economy and reduce CO2 emissions, manufacturers are increasingly adopting lightweight materials such as aluminum, carbon fiber, and high-strength steel. This trend is accelerating the integration of advanced materials into vehicle production, enabling automakers to meet regulatory standards while improving performance and sustainability. The Lamborghini Urus SE, launched in India in August 2024, features a 4.0-litre V8 engine with 800hp, a 25.9kWh battery offering 60km electric range, design updates, and improved performance, rivaling the BMW XM.

Rising Adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) is Driving the Automotive Lightweight Material Market Growth

The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is playing a significant role in shaping the global automotive lightweight material market. EV manufacturers are prioritising the use of lightweight materials like aluminum and carbon composites to increase energy efficiency, extend battery life, and improve driving range. The ALMA Project’s unveiling of a lightweight BEV structure, which reduced the body-in-white (BiW) weight by 22% and cut CO2 emissions by 24%, exemplifies the impact of lightweighting on EV performance. This aligns with the EU's Green Deal, aiming to reduce emissions and promote sustainable transportation by 2050.

Technological Advancements is Influencing the Automotive Lightweight Material Market Dynamics and Trends

Technological advancements in automotive material innovation are significantly influencing the market. Processes like 3D printing, nanotechnology, and automated fiber placement are enhancing the strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness of materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum, and composites. These innovations enable manufacturers to create complex geometries with precision, reducing waste and improving efficiency. As a result, lightweight materials are becoming more prevalent in vehicle production, enabling automakers to meet rising performance, fuel efficiency, and environmental standards while exploring new possibilities in design and manufacturing.

Increased Use of Aluminium and Composites is Boosting the Demand for the Automotive Lightweight Material Market

The increased use of aluminum and composite materials is driving opportunities in the automotive lightweight material market. These materials are replacing traditional steel due to their lightness, strength, and corrosion resistance, contributing to better fuel efficiency and environmental compliance. Aluminum is now widely used in body panels, chassis, and engine components, while carbon composites are increasingly found in high-end vehicles. Events like the Automotive Lightweight Materials USA 2024 Exhibition highlighted the adoption of these materials, as experts explored advanced lightweighting techniques and strategies to meet evolving safety, emissions, and performance standards.

Market Segmentation

Automotive Lightweight Material Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034 offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Material Type

• Metal
• Composite
• Plastic
• Elastomer

Market Breakup by Application

• Body in White
• Chassis and Suspension
• Powertrain
• Closures
• Interiors
• Others

Market Breakup by Component

• Frame
• Wheel
• Bumper & Fender
• Engine & Exhaust
• Transmission
• Doors
• Hood & Trunk Lid
• Seats
• Instrumental Panel
• Fuel Tank

Market Breakup by Vehicle Type

• Electric Vehicle
• Battery Electric Vehicle
• Hybrid Electric Vehicle
• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle
• IC Engine Vehicle

Market Breakup by Region

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

Market Analysis

The global automotive lightweight material market is being driven by the rising technological advancements in the automotive industry. The rising disposable income has increased the purchasing power of the consumers and is hence, propelling the growth of the industry. Based on material, metal is anticipated to lead the industry. Strict emission and fuel economy regulations by the government is further leading the global automotive lightweight material industry growth.

Competitive Landscape

The automotive lightweight material market key players concentrate on developing chemicals, materials, and solutions for diverse industries such as automotive, agriculture, and healthcare. Their innovations are designed to support sustainable development, offering products that enhance energy efficiency and promote environmental protection.

BASF SE

BASF SE, headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany, was established in 1865. As the world’s largest chemical producer, BASF focuses on creating chemicals, materials, and solutions across various industries, including automotive, agriculture, and healthcare. Its innovations aim to contribute to sustainable development, providing products for energy efficiency and environmental protection.

Covestro AG

Covestro AG, based in Leverkusen, Germany, was founded in 2015. Originally a part of Bayer, the company focuses on high-performance polymers and materials, such as polyurethanes and polycarbonates. Covestro serves various industries, including automotive, construction, and electronics, aiming to drive innovation while promoting sustainability and circular economy solutions.

LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V.

LyondellBasell Industries, headquartered in Rotterdam, Netherlands, was founded in 1955. A global leader in chemicals and polymers, the company produces essential materials for a range of industries, including automotive, packaging, and electronics. LyondellBasell is committed to advancing innovation, sustainability, and the development of circular economies in its production processes.

Toray Industries, Inc.

Toray Industries, Inc., established in 1926 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a leading manufacturer of fibres, textiles, and advanced materials. Toray develops innovative solutions across various sectors, including automotive, healthcare, and electronics. The company is committed to sustainability and environmental preservation, offering products that contribute to a sustainable future.

Other key players in the automotive lightweight material market report are ArcelorMittal S.A., Thyssenkrupp AG, Novelis Inc, Owens Corning, Alcoa Corporation, and Stratasys Ltd., among others.