As the automotive industry has suffered from supply chain challenges and low inventories in the last year, there is still hope for better times to come. But what exactly are the major trends to watch for in the year 2022? Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s senior analyst, Erik Solum, looks at some of the key factors that will impact the industry. Light vehicle sales are up, the global economy is improving, and the Delta variant poses a threat to the global economy and pandemic. At the same time, new entrants will appear in the Top 100.

Autonomous self-driving vehicles

While passenger cars have long dominated the automotive market, self-driving technology is equally well-suited for commercial use. While last-mile deliveries and long-range trucking will be the initial commercial applications, an increasing number of companies will shift their focus to more widespread commercial uses. Companies like Waymo Via and Aurora are currently in the development stage for driverless freight trucks.

Subscription-based pricing models

As an automaker, you have probably noticed the increasing number of subscription-based pricing models in the automotive industry. These models offer the advantages of building fleets at a lower cost while also allowing OEMs to capture higher margins as the market grows. In addition to this, subscription-based pricing is often perceived as the ultimate test-drive, attracting future buyers and even non-car buyers. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of subscription-based pricing models in the automotive industry.

Smart parking

According to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), new car … READ MORE ...