LED technology the future of automotive headlights in Europe
by CM Staff
Halogen lamps are gradually being replaced as LED components yield growth, finds Frost & Sullivan
PHOTO: Frost & Sullivan
SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Frost & Sullivan’s recent analysis, Growth Opportunity Evaluation in the European Lighting Components Aftermarket, 2020–2026, finds that the market is in a slow transition phase, shifting from traditional halogen lamps to Xenon and light-emitting diode (LED) components, as Xenon/LED lights have better visibility and product life.
The market is primarily driven by an increase in vehicles in operation (VIO), which is expected to rise from 306 million in 2020 to 335.9 million in 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.6% by 2026 across the region, according to Frost & Sullivan.
However, amid post-COVID-19 industry recovery, the lighting components aftermarket is expected to witness minimal short-term growth.
“The European Union’s directive requires all passenger cars to be equipped with automated headlights/daytime running light. This is boosting the replacement rates in the aftermarket,” said Guruswamy Veligandla, mobility research analyst at Frost & Sullivan, in a prepared statement. “Additionally, poor battery performance and shortage in the electric wiring system in the car lead to the damage of lighting components, driving the upgrade of lighting components.
“Going forward, European lighting components will be equipped with connected and artificial intelligence (AI)-based technologies for the premium and luxurious vehicle segments. Further, LASER/LED high-beam technology will be the future of automotive headlights in the European region as high-beam technology has a better light range than LED.”
According to the report, the European lighting components aftermarket will present growth opportunities for market participants, including:
- Lighting components suppliers need to ensure product coverage and availability with major wholesalers and retailers across the region.
- Focus on interior lighting, as new-generation vehicles come equipped with additional interior lighting components, such as LED ambient lighting, LED cabin lighting, and improved dashboard lighting in both original equipment and retro fitments.
- Approximately 4% of the lighting components were sold through the eCommerce channel in 2019. Suppliers should focus on eRetail platforms to expand.
- VIO is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 2.4% in the UK and 1.5% in Germany until 2026—higher than other countries. This will trigger high growth for the lighting components aftermarket in these two countries.
