Automotive Sliding Door Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Component Type (Sensors, Control Module, Motor & Actuators, Wiring Harness, Rollers, and Others), By Vehicle Type (Luxury Van, Commercial Van, and Bus), By Operation (Mechanical and Automatic), By Propulsion Type (Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Electric Vehicle (EV)), and Regional Forecasts, 2023-2030

The global automotive sliding door market size was valued at USD 12.30 billion in 2022. The market is projected to grow from USD 12.60 billion in 2023 to USD 16.10 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.55% during the forecast period.

Automotive sliding doors, also known as sliding side doors or automotive power sliding doors, are a type of door mechanism used in vehicles, primarily in minivans, vans, large SUVs, and buses. These doors differ from traditional hinged doors as they slide horizontally rather than swinging open.  

The sliding doors have two large panels that slide horizontally to provide access to the vehicle’s interior. The door panels are guided along the tracks on the vehicle’s body. Rollers attached to the vehicle’s door panel allow smooth movement within the tracks. In the case of power sliding doors, electric motors and actuators are responsible for opening and closing the doors. The modern sliding doors have various sensors, including proximity, obstacle detection, and position sensors. These sensors ensure safe operation by detecting nearby obstacles and monitoring the door position to prevent accidents.

Sliding doors offer convenience, especially in tight parking spaces or when passengers need to access the rear seats quickly. The automotive power sliding doors provide hands-free operation. These factors are driving the growth of sliding doors in the global market over the forecast period.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Travel Restrictions and Supply Chain Disruptions During Pandemic Hampered Market Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the global automotive industry. Various nations globally implemented lockdown restrictions to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Global auto sales rapidly dropped in the second half of 2020 due to the strict social distancing regulations during the pandemic. Stringent lockdowns and social distancing regulations had resulted in the complete closure of manufacturing units of key players, disrupting the movement of raw materials indirectly or directly impeding the industry and thousands of workers. The wage cuts, unemployment, and global lockdowns exponentially decreased the need for cars, which significantly decreased the purchasing power of the consumer.

In the second half of 2021, multiple countries have implemented large-scale vaccination campaigns to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. These factor have raised the demand for vehicles across the globe which in turn is, driving the market growth during the forecast period. For example, in 2021 the total net sales of Robert Bosch increased by 16% compared to 2020. In 2021, increased vaccination campaigns and ease of social distancing norms globally, led to increase in net sale of Bosch.

LATEST TRENDS

Surging Demand for Ride-Sharing Services to Drive Market Growth

Ride-sharing & ride-hailing services are two closely related mobility concepts revolutionizing the transportation industry. By providing flexible, convenient, and cost-effective on-demand mobility, these services have gained traction recently and will likely grow in the upcoming years. Factors, such as the increasing cost of vehicle ownership, uncertainty regarding conventional vehicles, varying government norms regarding vehicle usage, and fluctuating fuel prices influence the populace to adopt these services for cost-effective and flexible mobility.

Ride-hailing & ride-sharing companies often operate large fleets of vehicles, including many minivans and vehicles designed to accommodate multiple passengers. These vehicles frequently feature sliding doors, offering easy passenger access, comfort, and safety. Therefore, ride-sharing service providers expand their vehicle fleets to cater to the increasing demand for flexible mobility, increasing the demand for vehicles equipped with sliding doors.

For instance, in September 2023, Camden Loop, a public transit ride-share service provider, launched a small fleet of minivans as a ‘microtransit’ to significantly fill transportation gaps in Camden. Similarly, other ride-sharing providers are also focused on expanding their minivan fleet to cater to the increasing demand for on-demand mobility globally, further creating significant revenue growth opportunities in the market.

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DRIVING FACTORS

Increasing Adoption of E-Mobility to Drive Market Growth Over the Forecast Period

Automotive electrification is one of the major ongoing megatrends in the automotive industry that have changed the industry dynamics in recent years. Factors, such as the increasing number of government regulations for emission control, environmental concerns among the people, and government promotion to adopt electric vehicles by offering tax benefits and subsidies influence global electric vehicle sales.

Additionally, various scrapping policies proposed by governments globally to scrap out outdated internal combustion (IC) engine-powered vehicles have created uncertainty among the people regarding conventional vehicles. Therefore, increasing consumer focus on adopting electric vehicles, such as electric vans, electric buses, and others, as a future mobility solution is anticipated to drive market growth over the forecast period. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), in 2022, nearly 307,900 electric vans were sold globally, witnessing a growth of nearly 97% compared to 2021, and the growth is anticipated to continue in upcoming years. This surging electric van sales globally is anticipated to fuel the demand for automotive sliding door market growth during the forecast period.  

Increasing Demand for Convenience and Safety to Propel Market Expansion

The improving standard of living and increasing safety concerns among consumers are influencing the demand for convenience and safety, which have become paramount in this market. Today's consumers are seeking vehicles that provide efficient transportation and enhance their overall driving experience. The adoption of sliding doors significantly improves the convenience and safety of automobiles. Sliding doors offer easy entry and exit as they offer a wide and unobstructed opening. Therefore, these doors make it easier for the passengers or vehicle occupants to enter and exit the vehicle more conveniently, especially in tight parking spaces. Hence, individuals commuting or traveling with families, elderly individuals, children, and others prefer sliding doors for particular convenience.

Modern vehicles equipped with sliding door systems also offer hands-free operations through automatic door opening and closing mechanisms with various sensors. This hands-free operation further enhances convenience, enabling the users to open and close the doors simply with a push button or gesture, reducing the required physical effort.

For instance, in April 2021, Hyundai Motors launched the STARIA MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) lineup for its future purpose-built vehicles (PBVs). STARIA MPV lineup is equipped with modern sliding doors with a Safe Exit Assist (SEA) feature, preventing the door from opening while a rear-side vehicle is passing by. Similarly, other modern vehicle manufacturers are considering the adoption of sliding doors to improve safety and convenience among their consumers.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

High Maintenance & Repairing Expenditure May Hamper Market Growth

Sliding doors are convenient and comfortable for the passengers. However, the complexity of sliding door systems leads to higher maintenance and repair costs. Malfunctions and damage to the sliding door lead to the requirement of specialized expertise and parts for repair and maintenance due to the complexity of the sliding door mechanisms. This makes the repairs more expensive and time-consuming compared to hinged doors, hampering the market growth.

Moreover, limited vehicle types have been designed to adopt sliding doors. Hence, the specialized parts required for the replacement or repair are not readily available, and sourcing them takes longer and is more expensive. Moreover, sliding door repair requires more labor hours, especially if the part is related to the motorized component, sensor, or sliding mechanism itself. Skilled mechanics are required for such repairs.

SEGMENTATION

By Component Type Analysis

Others Segment to Dominate the Market Owing to the Increasing Adoption of Latches and Locks in Sliding Doors

This market is segmented based on component type into sensors, control module, motor & actuators, wiring harness, rollers, and others.

The others segment includes latches & locks, panels, soundproofing, and insulation. Adopting power sliding doors in vehicles has significantly contributed to the growth of latches and locks. These systems are often equipped with electronic latches and locks, allowing passengers to open and close sliding doors with a button or through keyless entry. Automotive manufacturers and consumers often have specific design and functionality preferences for sliding door latches, driving demand for customizable options. Latches ensure that sliding doors remain securely closed during vehicle operation, preventing accidents and injuries. These factors are anticipated to increase the growth of the other segment and is set to hold the dominant position in this market over the forecast period.

The motors & actuators segment is expected to hold the second-largest position in the market. The motors & actuators automate the opening and closing of sliding doors, eliminating the need for manual operation. This hands-free operation is appealing to consumers. The electric motor is the most common type used in the car sliding doors. They provide the necessary power to open and close the doors smoothly. Some advanced sliding doors are equipped with stepper motors for precise control of door movement. These motors can stop at a specific position and are often employed in semi-automatic sliding doors. Linear actuators are one of the major components found in car sliding doors. They convert rotary motion into linear motion, allowing them to push or pull the sliding door along its track. The growing inclination of consumers toward accessibility, enhanced safety, convenience, and overall user experience is helping the segment to maintain its second-largest position in the market over the forecast period.

By Vehicle Type Analysis

Growing Use of Commercial Vans for Various Purposes to Drive Commercial Vans Segment Growth

The market is categorized by vehicle type into luxury van, commercial van, and bus. The commercial van segment is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period.

The commercial van segment is set to hold the leading position as these vans are primarily designed and used for business or commercial purposes. They are typically used to transport goods, equipment, or passengers and also for commercial activities, such as delivery services, merchants' work, and cargo transportation. Customers can customize their commercial vans according to their business needs, such as installing shelves, racks, and other interior features to organize tools and equipment effectively. These factors fuel the growth of commercial vans over the forecast period. Further, increasing global vehicle production is also one of the key factors in maintaining the dominance of the commercial van sector.

The luxury van segment is anticipated to hold the second-largest position in the market over the forecast period. These vans have various high-end entertainment devices and features, including LED lighting systems, air conditioning, entertainment systems, massage, heated reclining seats, and electronic stability control. With significant R&D investments and continued technological development by automakers, sliding doors are becoming more cost-effective and easier to use in all vehicle models. Additionally, stringent government regulations to equip vehicles with driver assistance systems that improve vehicle safety are fueling the growth of the luxury van segment during the forecast period.

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By Operation Analysis

Automatic Segment to Lead the Market Owing to Ease of Accessibility of Occupants

The market is categorized by operation into mechanical and automatic.

The automatic segment is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. The automatic sliding doors provide unparalleled convenience for vehicle owners and passengers. With a simple touch of a button on the remote control or inside the vehicle, these doors slide open or close, eliminating the need for manual effort. Convenience is especially valuable in crowded urban environments with tight parking spaces. It allows passengers to enter or exit the vehicle easily, even in cramped conditions. The increasing demand for car automatic sliding doors is driven by convenience, safety, accessibility, aesthetics, market trends, and changing transportation models. As technology advances and consumer expectations evolve, this trend will persist and potentially expand into other automotive market segments. 

The manual segment is expected to show steady growth over the forecast period. These doors are simpler and cost-effective to manufacture and maintain compared to their automated sliding door. This, in turn, makes vehicles with manual-operated sliding doors more affordable, attracting budget-conscious consumers. The manual sliding doors have few components that can fail or require maintenance resulting in increased reliability and durability of the door. These factors are helping to maintain the steady growth of the segment over the forecast period.

By Propulsion Type Analysis

ICE Segment to Lead the Market Owing to Lower Purchase Price Compared to EV

The market is categorized by operation into Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Electric Vehicle (EV).

The ICE segment has witnessed tremendous growth and is expected to increase due to the demand for commercial and passenger vehicles in developed and emerging countries. Various stringent government laws and standards for efficient technology are expected to boost the ICE market. For instance, the Indian government has made mandatory for the automakers to build flex-fuel engines. These prompted manufacturers to increase the production of internal combustion engines. However, the lack of infrastructure for electric vehicles and charging stations will likely lead to an industry surge during the forecast period. 

The EV segment is expected to show steady growth over the forecast period. Growing awareness among consumers regarding climate change and air pollution is one of the major factors that is increasing the demand for the EV segment during the forecast period. Governments worldwide offer incentives such as tax credits, rebates, and reduced registration fees. Such policies help to increase the adoption of EVs across the globe. The expansion of charging infrastructure, including fast chargers, has made it more convenient for EV owners to recharge their vehicles. Improved infrastructure reduced concern about range limitations and supported long-distance travel. These factors help to maintain the second-largest position of EVs over the forecast period.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

Geographically, the market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the rest of the world.

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Europe currently holds the largest automotive sliding door market share. The European market was valued at USD 7.49 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 9.36 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 2.94% over the forecast period.

European cities face congestion and parking challenges. Sliding doors are well-suited for compact urban environments, allowing passengers to enter and exit vehicles without swinging doors into pedestrians or obstacles, making them a practical choice for consumers. Consumers' increasing tendency toward online shopping and the availability of user-friendly mobile applications for online purchase of a range of items is increasing the demand for last-mile delivery of goods in this region, which in turn is increasing the demand for sliding doors in this region. In October 2021, DHL Parcel had launched 50 new electric vans across the U.K. The high-speed charging of this next-generation electric van and the long-distance cruising range are ideal for use in the urban environment, reducing the impact on carbon dioxide due to the delivery of the last mileage. This, in turn, is expected to increase the demand for commercial vans over the forecast periods.

North America is anticipated to hold the second-largest position in the market. The growing inclination of consumers toward recreational activities, continuous development in the technology field, and rise in the per capita income of consumers in this region are anticipated to increase the demand for luxury vans. The increasing number of business tours owing to the vast expansion of multinational firms, the corporate team member transportation requirements, and the entertainment & media industry is another factor maintaining North America's second-largest position in the market.

Asia Pacific region to show steady market growth during the forecast period. The rapid expansion of the e-commerce industry in the region has led to an increase in demand for delivery and logistics services. Vans are essential for last-mile delivery, making them a crucial component of the e-commerce supply chain. The rising middle-class population in Asia Pacific countries has increased consumer spending. As people’s purchasing power grows, the demand for goods and services also increases. Vans play a crucial role in supporting the distribution of consumer products, from groceries to electronics, to meet the demands of this expanding middle-class population.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Companies are Focusing on Partnerships, Acquisition, and Building Advanced Control Module to Gain a Competitive Edge

Some leading key players dominate the global market due to their critical strategic decisions such as increasing their global presence by building new manufacturing plants and partnership with key players to develop advanced products, robust product portfolio, and market share dominance. These include a group of four to five key companies with more extensive geographic presence and persistent R&D, resulting in secure regulatory approvals.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd (Japan)


• Dura Automotive Systems, LLC (U.S.)


• Alex Original Ltd. (Israel)


• Auto Cool Ind. Ltd. (Israel)


• Continental AG (Germany)


• Hi-LEX Corporation (Japan)


• Kiekert AG (Germany)


• Schaltbau Holding AG (Germany)


• Mitsui Kinzoku ACT Corp (Japan)


• Strattec Security Corporation (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• May 2023: Aisin Seiki completed a factory building project in Guangdong. The new energy vehicle electrification parts project of Aisin Seiki Foshan Automotive will primarily manufacture automotive electric sunroofs, door locks, electric sliding door systems, handles, and other related parts.


• January 2023: Apple patented its new sliding door technology, which features doors with adaptive positioning featuring vehicle doors with sensors.


• November 2022: Aisin Corporation announced the design and production of large opening door systems featuring its new link-type electric power doors, which are expected to hit the mark in 2024.


• September 2019: Borse and Schaltbau subsidiary Bode had agreed to jointly develop a door sensor system that recognizes the passenger and provides access to them without the driver’s intervention.


• May 2019: Continental Materials Corporation acquired Serenity Sliding Door Systems and Fastrac Building Supply in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The acquisition will provide an opportunity to accelerate growth and establish a national footprint while delivering benefits to their customers, employees, and shareholders.

REPORT COVERAGE

The market report includes a detailed analysis of the industry and focuses on key aspects, including vehicle types, leading companies, and component types. Besides, the report provides information related to the market trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the factors above, the report also focuses on many factors that contributed to the market growth in recent years. 

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