Automotive Nonwoven Fabrics Market Analysis

Based on material type, the automotive nonwoven fabrics market is categorized into polyester, polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene, and other synthetic fibers. The polyester segment held a dominant market size of USD 405.5 million in 2023. Polyester, one of the most used materials in automotive nonwoven fabrics, provides superior durability, strength, and resistance to wear & tear. The versatility and cost-effectiveness of polyester-based nonwoven fabrics are driving their demand. These fabrics are used in applications such as carpeting, trunk liners, seat upholstery, and sound insulation.

The polypropylene segment is majorly driven by its low weight & cost, driving global market demand. Specialty materials, such as aramid fibers, glass fibers, and carbon fibers, are utilized for particular automotive nonwoven fabric needs.

Based on technology, the automotive nonwoven fabrics market is categorized into spunbond, needle punched, meltblown, wetlaid, and others. The spunbond technology segment held a major share of over 41% in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a significant pace by 2032. In spunbond technology, continuous filaments are extruded and bonded to form nonwoven fabrics. Spunbond fabrics have good strength, durability, and uniformity. The versatility and cost-effectiveness of these fabrics are also driving their demand. This fabric type is used in applications including air & fuel filters, carpeting, headliners, and trunk liners.

The use of meltblown nonwoven fabrics in air filtration, oil & fuel filtration, sound insulation, and thermal management applications is fueling their market demand.

Based on application, the automotive nonwoven fabrics market is categorized into interior trim, upholstery, carpeting, headliners, parcel shelf, trunk liners, air filters, engine covers, insulation, and others. The interior trim segment held a major market share in 2023. Nonwoven fabrics are extensively utilized in automotive interior trims. They are used for headliners, door panels, dashboard surfaces, carpeting, seat upholstery, and trunk liners. Aesthetics, comfort, sound insulation, moisture management, and durability are a few factors fueling the demand for nonwoven fabrics in interior trim. Factors including comfort, durability, breathability, ease of cleaning, and customization are driving the demand for these fabrics in upholstery & seating.

Based on vehicle type, the automotive nonwoven fabrics market is categorized into passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and electric vehicles. The passenger vehicles segment held a major market share in 2022 and is expected to grow by 2032. Passenger cars including sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs offer an extensive segment for automotive nonwoven fabrics. Interior aesthetics, comfort, noise reduction, durability, and customization are a few factors fueling the demand for nonwoven fabrics in passenger cars. The growing EV market is accelerating the demand for the market. Heavy commercial vehicles including trucks and buses also need nonwoven fabrics owing to their functional requirements.

Based on sales channel, the automotive nonwoven fabrics market is categorized into OEM and aftermarket. The OEM segment held a major market share in 2022 and is projected to grow during the forecast period. OEMs play an important role in fueling global market demand. As suppliers of nonwoven fabrics to automotive manufacturers, OEMs must meet various demands such as product quality, reliability, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to meet specific requirements. The overall manufacturing volume of vehicles, the adoption of nonwoven fabric technologies by OEMs, and the OEMs' preference for trusted & reliable suppliers will influence the demand for nonwoven fabrics during the forecast period.

U.S. dominated the North America region with a major market share of USD 422.6 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a lucrative pace till 2032. North America is a major automotive hub with the presence of several vehicle manufacturers & suppliers. The automotive industry growth including the production of passenger cars, light commercial vehicle, and heavy commercial vehicles is fueling the demand for automotive nonwoven fabrics in the region. Factors including the increased consumer demand, technological advancements, and investments in R&D are boosting automotive sector growth, in turn, driving the demand for nonwoven fabrics.