The Shift Towards Automated Manual Transmissions in Heavy-Duty Vehicles

The global commercial vehicle transmission market, valued at US$ 25.8 billion in 2023, is projected to grow to US$ 42.5 billion by 2033, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% from 2023 to 2033.

The commercial vehicle transmission market is a crucial segment within the automotive industry, catering to the needs of heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, buses, and construction machinery. Transmissions in commercial vehicles play a vital role in transferring power from the engine to the wheels, thereby affecting the overall performance, fuel efficiency, and operational cost of the vehicles. The market is characterized by a diverse range of transmission types, including manual, automatic, and automated manual transmissions (AMTs), each with its own set of advantages and applications. As the demand for commercial vehicles continues to rise, driven by factors such as urbanization, e-commerce growth, and infrastructure development, the transmission market is poised for significant expansion.

Market Insights

The commercial vehicle transmission market is witnessing a shift towards more advanced and efficient transmission technologies. Automatic transmissions, once limited to passenger cars, are gaining traction in the commercial vehicle segment due to their ability to provide smoother driving experiences, reduce driver fatigue, and improve fuel efficiency. Moreover, AMTs, which combine the benefits of both manual and automatic transmissions, are increasingly popular, especially in regions with stringent emission regulations. The adoption of these advanced transmissions is further fueled by the growing focus on reducing the total cost of ownership (TCO) for fleet operators. By enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing maintenance needs, these modern transmissions are helping companies to achieve better profit margins.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the commercial vehicle transmission market is expected to continue its evolution towards greater efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. With the global push towards reducing carbon emissions, electric and hybrid commercial vehicles are gaining prominence. These vehicles often require specialized transmission systems, opening new avenues for innovation and market growth. Additionally, the integration of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and the development of autonomous commercial vehicles are likely to influence transmission design and functionality. The future of the market will also be shaped by the increasing adoption of telematics and connectivity solutions, enabling real-time monitoring and optimization of transmission performance.

Market Growth

The commercial vehicle transmission market is experiencing robust growth, fueled by a combination of technological advancements and increasing demand for commercial vehicles across various sectors. The market's expansion is particularly notable in emerging economies, where rapid industrialization and infrastructure development are driving the demand for heavy-duty trucks and buses. Additionally, the growing need for efficient logistics solutions in the e-commerce sector is contributing to the increased adoption of advanced transmission systems. Market players are also investing heavily in research and development to introduce innovative transmission technologies that cater to the evolving needs of the industry. As a result, the market is expected to witness steady growth in the coming years.

List of Key Companies Profiled in The Report

• Aisin Seiki Co.
• Allison Transmission, Inc.
• Continental AG
• Eaton Corporation
• JATCO Ltd.
• Knorr-Bremse AG
• Mack Trucks, Inc.
• Magna International, Inc.
• Oerlikon Graziano SpA
• Others

Recent Industry News

Recent developments in the commercial vehicle transmission market highlight the industry's focus on innovation and sustainability. Several leading manufacturers have announced new transmission technologies aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. For instance, the introduction of next-generation AMTs with enhanced durability and performance is gaining attention in the market. Additionally, there have been significant collaborations between transmission manufacturers and technology companies to develop transmission systems compatible with electric and hybrid commercial vehicles. These partnerships are expected to accelerate the adoption of green technologies in the commercial vehicle segment.

Notable Developments

Notable developments in the commercial vehicle transmission market include the increasing adoption of automated manual transmissions (AMTs) and the growing focus on electric vehicle (EV) transmissions. Several manufacturers have launched AMTs that offer the convenience of automatic transmissions while maintaining the fuel efficiency of manual systems. This development is particularly significant in regions with stringent fuel economy standards. Furthermore, the emergence of electric commercial vehicles has led to the development of specialized transmissions that cater to the unique power delivery needs of EVs. These developments are expected to shape the future of the commercial vehicle transmission market, driving innovation and growth in the industry.

Competitive Landscape

Dealers are focusing on globalization and developing products that meet pollution standards. As a result, manufacturers are prioritizing the development of new technologies, while dealers are partnering with local firms to lower production costs and offer more efficient technologies to the market.

New intelligent transmissions are being integrated into commercial vehicles, with companies like WABCO playing a key role. These intelligent systems automate and optimize gear shifting, relieving drivers from continuous clutch and shift operations. This automation offers significant benefits, including improved fuel efficiency, extended component lifespans, and enhanced safety.

In February 2019, Dana introduced a new electronic transmission and electronic clutch designed for off-road vehicles. In May 2022, Magna began production of a new 7-speed mild hybrid dual-clutch transverse transmission for the BMW Group. Magna is the exclusive supplier of mild hybrid transmissions for all front-transverse applications on BMW Group platforms, significantly reducing CO2 emissions from internal combustion engines with this mild hybrid system.