Automotive Connecting Rod Market Size - By Material, By Process, By Vehicle, By Sales Channel Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Automotive Connecting Rod Market Size

The global automotive connecting rod market size was valued at USD 40.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2025 and 2034, due to the increasing demand for high-performance vehicles. As consumer preferences shift toward more powerful and fuel-efficient cars, manufacturers are focusing on producing lightweight, durable, and high strength connecting rods. This demand is particularly prominent in sports cars, luxury vehicles, and electric vehicles, where performance and efficiency are critical.
 

Technological advancements in materials, such as the use of titanium and advanced alloys, are further enhancing rod performance. Additionally, growing interest in motorsports fuels demand for specialized, high-performance connecting rods. This trend drives innovation and competition in the market, fostering overall growth.
 

For instance, according to GMI Hybrid Electric Vehicle Conversion Kit Market size was valued at USD 344.3 million in 2023 and is estimated to register a CAGR of over 15% between 2024 and 2032. This high rapid transition to hybrid and electric vehicles is anticipated to generate demand for automotive connecting rod that caters to production of EVs in the coming years.
 

Another growth driver for the automotive connecting rod market is the increased production of electric vehicles (EVs). As EV manufacturers focus on improving motor performance and efficiency, lightweight and durable connecting rods are in demand for powertrains. The rise in global EV adoption leads to more stringent performance requirements, pushing for advanced material and design innovations. Furthermore, EVs require fewer components, making the quality and strength of connecting rods even more critical. This shift accelerates the need for specialized connecting rod solutions in the growing EV market.
 

Automotive Connecting Rod Market Trends

The trend of two-piece connecting rods in the automotive market is emerging as a promising innovation, offering enhanced performance and efficiency. These rods provide benefits such as reduced piston rock, increased torque, and improved dynamic compression. By shifting the pivot point of the piston, two-piece rods allow for more controlled piston movement, enhancing engine durability and power. This technology is gaining attention for its potential to revolutionize both OEM and racing applications.
 

Manufacturers are exploring its advantages in high-performance and electric vehicle (EV) powertrains. As patents and prototypes continue to develop, the trend could disrupt traditional connecting rod designs in the coming years.

For instance, in October 2023, Transcend Energy Group introduced a groundbreaking two-piece connecting rod called the Thunder Rod. This innovation moves the pivot point of the piston to the connecting rod, allowing the piston to travel vertically without lateral forces, reducing piston rock. The Thunder Rod enhances engine performance by increasing torque and dynamic compression by 25-30%. Transcend claims the technology could revolutionize the OEM, racing, and aftermarket industries. The company has secured patents for the Thunder Rod and is already testing it on the road, with plans to showcase it at the SEMA show.
 

One significant challenge in the automotive connecting rod market is fluctuating raw material costs. The prices of essential materials like steel, aluminum, and titanium can vary due to supply chain disruptions, geopolitical factors, and demand shifts. These cost fluctuations impact production budgets and pricing strategies, making it difficult for manufacturers to maintain stable profit margins. Additionally, sourcing high-quality materials at competitive prices remains a challenge for both OEM and aftermarket suppliers. As raw material costs rise, manufacturers may need to find innovative ways to minimize costs without compromising product quality.
 

Automotive Connecting Rod Market Analysis

Based on the vehicle, the market is segmented into passenger and commercial vehicles. In 2024, the passenger segment accounted for over 80% of the market share and is expected to exceed USD 45 billion by 2034. The passenger vehicle segment dominates the automotive connecting rod market due to the high volume of vehicle production and demand for efficient, reliable engines. Passenger cars require durable and cost-effective connecting rods to meet performance and fuel efficiency standards. As global car sales continue to rise, particularly in emerging markets, the demand for connecting rods in passenger vehicles remains strong.
 

Additionally, advancements in engine technology, such as lightweight materials and improved compression, drive the need for specialized connecting rods in this segment. The mass production of passenger vehicles supports economies of scale, further boosting the demand for connecting rods. As the automotive industry focuses on optimizing engine performance, the passenger segment continues to lead the market.
 

Based on the sales channel, the automotive connecting rod market is divided into OEM and aftermarket. The OEM segment held above 85% of the market share in 2024, due to their established relationships with vehicle manufacturers, where they supply the primary connecting rod systems during vehicle production. Their dominance is further supported by their ability to ensure high-quality, warranty-backed components that are designed for the specific needs of each vehicle model. However, the share of the aftermarket is rapidly increasing as more vehicles age and require replacements or upgrades.
 

As the vehicle fleet grows, especially in regions with large numbers of older vehicles, demand for aftermarket parts rises due to cost-effectiveness and convenience. Additionally, the rise of DIY repair culture, online parts stores, and expanded service networks make aftermarket connecting rods more accessible. As automakers transition to more complex transmission systems, such as dual-connecting rod or automated manual transmissions, the aftermarket has become a key player in offering compatible parts and services.
 

China automotive connecting rod market accounted for 60% of the revenue share in 2024 and is expected to exceed USD 10 billion by 2034, due to its position as the world’s largest automotive manufacturer and consumer. The country has a vast domestic market with high demand for both passenger and commercial vehicles. China’s rapidly expanding automotive industry benefits from a robust supply chain, cost-effective production capabilities, and a growing focus on electric vehicle (EV) development.
 

Additionally, China’s investments in advanced manufacturing technologies and materials further enhance its market leadership. The combination of manufacturing scale, domestic demand, and technological innovation solidifies China’s dominance in the market.
 

Europe’s automotive connecting rod market is driven by a strong automotive manufacturing base, with leading players in both the passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle segments. The region has a focus on high-performance engines, fuel efficiency, and sustainability, which drives demand for advanced connecting rods. Technological innovations in materials, such as lightweight alloys and forged rods, are prevalent. Additionally, Europe’s shift toward electric and hybrid vehicles is influencing new designs and materials for connecting rods. Stringent environmental regulations also push manufacturers to improve engine efficiency and reduce emissions.
 

North America, particularly the U.S., has a well-established automotive industry with high demand for durable and high-performance connecting rods for both passenger and heavy-duty vehicles. The market is driven by technological advancements, including the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and high-performance engines. The region benefits from a strong automotive aftermarket, contributing to sustained demand for replacement connecting rods. Manufacturers in North America are focusing on improving engine efficiency, durability, and weight reduction. Trade policies, such as tariffs and regulations, also influence the market dynamics in this region.
 

Automotive Connecting Rod Market Share

Mahle GmbH, Linamar Corporation, and Schaeffler AG collectively held a substantial market share of over 9% in the automotive connecting rod industry in 2024. Mahle GmbH, Linamar Corporation, and Schaeffler AG dominate the automotive connecting rod industry due to their extensive experience, technological expertise, and global manufacturing capabilities.
 

These companies have established strong relationships with major OEMs, ensuring consistent demand for their high-quality products. They lead in innovation, utilizing advanced materials and production techniques to enhance engine performance and fuel efficiency. Their large-scale operations enable them to benefit from economies of scale, keeping costs competitive. Additionally, these companies are investing in research and development, particularly for electric and hybrid vehicle powertrains. Their broad geographical presence and ability to adapt to market trends further solidify their leadership in the market.    .
 

Automotive Connecting Rod Market Companies

Major players operating in the automotive connecting rod industry are:

• Aisin Seiki
• Bharat Forge
• CP-Carrillo
• Cummins
• Federal-Mogul
• Linamar
• Mahle
• Schaeffler AG
• Tupy S.A.
   

Automotive Connecting Rod Industry News

• In October 2024, Bharat Forge had agreed to acquire AAM India Manufacturing Corp, a subsidiary of American Axle. The deal includes AAM India’s commercial vehicle axle and rod business in Pune and Chennai, as well as its Pune Engineering and Development Centre. This acquisition will expand Bharat Forge’s product offerings and manufacturing footprint in India. AAM’s decision to sell aligns with its focus on passenger vehicles, hybrids, and electric vehicles globally. The acquisition is subject to Competition Commission of India approval and is expected to be completed within 120 days.
   
• In October 2023, Transcend Energy Group introduced a groundbreaking two-piece connecting rod called the Thunder Rod. This innovation moves the pivot point of the piston to the connecting rod, allowing the piston to travel vertically without lateral forces, reducing piston rock. The Thunder Rod enhances engine performance by increasing torque and dynamic compression by 25-30%. Transcend claims the technology could revolutionize the OEM, racing, and aftermarket industries. The company has secured patents for the Thunder Rod and is already testing it on the road, with plans to showcase it at the SEMA show.
   

The automotive connecting rod market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue ($ Mn/Bn) and volume (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Material

• Steel
• Aluminum
• Titanium
• Composite Materials
• Others

Market, By Process

• Forged connecting rods
• Cast connecting rods
• Powder-Metal connecting rods

Market, By Vehicle

• Passenger vehicles
  • Hatchback
  • Sedan
  • SUV
• Commercial vehicles
  • Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV)
  • Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCV)

Market, By Sales Channel

• OEM
• Aftermarket

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Nordics
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa