Saudi Arabia Automotive Drivetrain Market Report: Size, Share, Growth Drivers, Trends, Opportunities & Forecast 2025-2030

Saudi Arabia Automotive Drivetrain Market valued at USD 4.5 Bn, driven by fuel-efficient vehicles, electric/hybrid shifts, and government sustainability initiatives.

The Saudi Arabia Automotive Drivetrain Market is valued at USD 4.5 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, advancements in automotive technology, and a shift towards electric and hybrid drivetrains. The market is also supported by government initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable transportation solutions, such as investments in electric vehicle infrastructure and incentives for eco-friendly vehicles.

Key cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam dominate the market due to their significant population density, economic activities, and infrastructure development. These urban centers are witnessing a surge in vehicle ownership and a growing preference for advanced drivetrain technologies, making them pivotal in shaping market trends.

In recent years, the Saudi government has emphasized the importance of reducing carbon emissions by promoting the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles. Although specific regulations mandating emissions standards for new vehicles are not detailed in available sources, the focus on sustainability aligns with global trends towards stricter emissions controls and the adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles.

Saudi Arabia Automotive Drivetrain Market Segmentation

By Type:

The market is segmented into various types of drivetrains, including Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), Dual-Clutch Transmission, Electric Drivetrains, Hybrid Drivetrains, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Systems, Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Systems, and Others. Among these, Automatic Transmission is the most dominant segment due to its growing popularity among consumers seeking convenience and ease of use. The increasing trend towards electric and hybrid drivetrains is also noteworthy, as consumers become more environmentally conscious.

By Vehicle Type:

The market is categorized into Passenger Cars, SUVs, Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs), Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCVs), Two-Wheelers, and Others. The Passenger Cars segment leads the market, driven by the increasing urbanization and rising disposable incomes of consumers. SUVs are also gaining traction due to their versatility and appeal among families, while LCVs and HCVs are essential for commercial applications.

Saudi Arabia Automotive Drivetrain Market Competitive Landscape

The Saudi Arabia Automotive Drivetrain Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Toyota Motor Corporation, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., General Motors Company, Ford Motor Company, Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Corporation, Volkswagen AG, BMW AG, Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Tata Motors Limited, Changan Automobile, BYD Company Limited, Geely Automobile Holdings Limited, Lucid Group, Inc., Ceer (Saudi Electric Vehicle Company), ZF Friedrichshafen AG, BorgWarner Inc., Magna International Inc. contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Saudi Arabia Automotive Drivetrain Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

Increasing Vehicle Production:

The automotive sector in Saudi Arabia is projected to produce approximately 500,000 vehicles in future, reflecting a significant increase from 450,000 previously. This growth is driven by the government's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil. The rise in vehicle production directly correlates with the demand for advanced drivetrains, as manufacturers seek to enhance performance and efficiency in their offerings.

Rising Demand for Fuel Efficiency:

With fuel prices fluctuating, the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles is surging. In future, the average fuel consumption for new vehicles is expected to decrease to 6.5 liters per 100 km, down from 7.0 liters previously. This trend is pushing manufacturers to invest in innovative drivetrain technologies that enhance fuel efficiency, thereby driving market growth. The focus on sustainability is also influencing consumer preferences towards more efficient vehicles.

Government Initiatives for Local Manufacturing:

The Saudi government has introduced several initiatives to boost local manufacturing, including the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program. In future, the government aims to increase local content in automotive production to 50%, up from 30% previously. This initiative not only supports the automotive drivetrain market but also encourages foreign investments, fostering a competitive environment for local manufacturers to thrive.

Market Challenges

High Import Tariffs on Components:

The automotive industry in Saudi Arabia faces significant challenges due to high import tariffs on drivetrain components, which can reach up to 20%. This increases the overall cost of production for local manufacturers, making it difficult to compete with imported vehicles. As a result, many companies are forced to pass these costs onto consumers, potentially stifling market growth and limiting access to advanced technologies.

Limited Local Supplier Base:

The lack of a robust local supplier base for automotive components poses a significant challenge. Currently, only about 15% of components are sourced locally, with the remainder imported. This reliance on foreign suppliers not only increases costs but also affects the supply chain's reliability. In future, addressing this issue will be crucial for enhancing the competitiveness of the Saudi automotive drivetrain market and ensuring sustainable growth.

Saudi Arabia Automotive Drivetrain Market Future Outlook

The Saudi Arabia automotive drivetrain market is poised for transformative growth, driven by technological advancements and a shift towards sustainable practices. As the government continues to promote local manufacturing and electric vehicle adoption, the market is expected to see increased investments in research and development. Additionally, the integration of smart technologies and automation in manufacturing processes will enhance efficiency and product quality, positioning the market favorably for future expansion and innovation.

Market Opportunities

Growth in Aftermarket Services:

The aftermarket services sector is projected to grow significantly, with an estimated value of SAR 5 billion in future. This growth presents opportunities for companies to offer maintenance, repair, and upgrade services for drivetrains, catering to the increasing number of vehicles on the road and enhancing customer loyalty through quality service.

Investment in R&D for Advanced Drivetrains:

With the global shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles, there is a substantial opportunity for investment in research and development. In future, it is anticipated that R&D spending in the automotive sector will reach SAR 1 billion, focusing on developing advanced drivetrain technologies that improve performance and sustainability, thus attracting both local and international partnerships.