Vehicle Roof Control Module Market Size, Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Vehicle Body Type (SUV, Hatchbacks, Sedan, and Others), By Roof Type (Soft-Top, Hard-Top, and Panoramic Roofs), By Sales Channel (OEM and Aftermarket), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

A vehicle roof control module (VRCM) is an electric module that controls the opening and closing function of the vehicle's convertible, mid-roof, or full sunroof. The retractable system module is located in the vehicle roof compartment, and it receives the input signal from the sensors, switches, and buttons to activate the necessary components.

The VRCM consists of the integrated circuit and microcontrollers that help receive signals from vehicle CAN (controller area network), which controls the roof. In May 2022, BMW recalled 61000 cars for sunroof programming issues, so all VRCM is responsible for complete roof management and has safety protocols and mapping for reliable and safe operation.

The roof system controlled by VRCM can include components such as a roof motor, roof latch, windscreen deflector, and other switches. The VRCM receives the signal to activate the modular roof system when the driver presses the button. It can also provide diagnostic information to the onboard computer of incorrect codes, system status, etc.

Overall, the VRCM plays a significant role in the operation of modern vehicles. As the demand for sunroof vehicles is increasing, especially in passenger cars, they will be more common in the future, and there will be new infrastructure and growth to support them.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Vehicle Roof Control Module Market

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the global vehicle industry, including the VRCM module market. The pandemic resulted in the closure of most of the manufacturing facilities. It disrupted the supply chain globally, leading to a decline in the production and sales of vehicles. As a result, the demand for VRCM is also reduced. The lockdown measure imposed by the government worldwide to contain the spread of the virus also led to a decline in consumer spending, further affecting the demand for new vehicles and roof control modules.

Manufacturers also faced parts and components shortages which contributed to less production of VRCM and led to delivery delays. Post-COVID-19, many automotive companies are investing in digitalization and automation to reduce dependency on labor requirements and more supply chain resilience.

This investment will lead to more advanced and reliable VRCM development. The shift towards personal vehicles and the need for increasing BEVs and hybrids will drive growth for the market in the upcoming years.  

Key Insights

The report will cover the following key insights:

• Key Industry Developments – Mergers, Acquisitions, and Partnerships.
• Porter's Five Forces Analysis.
• Technological Developments.
• Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Vehicle Roof Control Module Market.

Segmentation

Analysis by Vehicle Body Type

The sports utility vehicle (SUV) is the most lucrative segment regarding the adoption of roof control modules. The SUVs vary depending on vehicle size, weight, and other requirements; for instance, mid-size SUVs have smaller and lighter roof control modules than full-size SUVs.

SUV category ranges from the soft top to the hard top. After COVID-19, the number of vehicles that manufacturers produce has increased, and nowadays, vehicles with modular sunroofs are basic options given to the consumer. So, sport utility vehicles are expected to drive growth in the automotive roof module control system market.

Analysis by Roof Type

In recent years, panoramic sunroofs have been gaining popularity among customers due to their enhanced driving experience. Panoramic roofs are more prominent than standard sunroofs and provide panoramic views of the surroundings. They are also providing users with an open-air driving experience. The panoramic system will have the most significant share of profit among all the others because this type of roof module is commonly used in all modern SUVs.

Analysis by Sales Channel

The OEM market will have the highest anticipated growth since the majority of the vehicle are already fitted with roof modules when they are produced. Suppliers of these modules have stringent quality checks and testing, so they have relatively less chance of failure. Therefore increasing demand for these modules among the major OEMs is anticipated to boost the segment growth.

Analysis by Region

The highest growth rate is expected in the Asia Pacific market, especially India and other south East Asian countries, due to having central manufacturing units here. Increased automation and the presence of major automakers will have a rising impact on sales of SUVs and sedans in the Asia Pacific. The rapid adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles and stock fitting of sunroofs in these vehicles will boost regional manufacturers' growth.

Key Players Covered

Robert Bosch (Germany), Continental AG (Germany), Denso (Japan), Valeo S.A. (France), Aptiv PLC (Ireland), Webasto SE (Germany), HELLA kGAa Hueck & Co. (Germany), Panasonic Corporation (Japan),  and Magna International Inc (U.S.).

Key Industry Developments

• In 2021, Magna announced the acquisition of Veoneer, a Swedish company specializing in ADAS systems. The acquisition will expand Magna's autonomous driving, integrating with the roof control module.

• In 2021, Webasto developed a "Smart Folding Roof" that can be operated through a smartphone app.

• In 2020, Bosch introduced an intelligent sun visor that uses a transparent LCD to block direct sunlight, providing drivers with an unobstructed view of the road.