logo
logo
AI Products 

Emerging Opportunities in Internal Combustion Engine Market Driven by Shift Towards Natural Gas Vehicles

avatar
Kajal Patil
 Emerging Opportunities in Internal Combustion Engine Market Driven by Shift Towards Natural Gas Vehicles

Internal combustion engines power the majority of vehicles worldwide, primarily converting the chemical energy stored in various fuels into mechanical energy. Internal combustion engines offer advantages such as high power density, reliability and ability to use a variety of fuels. Rising vehicle sales and need for affordable transportation have propelled the demand for internal combustion engines globally. However, stringent emission norms have necessitated technological advancements in engine design.

**The Global Internal Combustion Engine Market is estimated to be valued at USD 256.7 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 298.3 Bn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% from 2024 to 2031.

Key Takeaways

**Key players operating in the Internal Combustion Engine market are Cummins, Caterpillar Inc., Volkswagen AG, General Motors, Fiat S.p.A. Key players are focusing on developing advanced natural gas and dual fuel engines to reduce emission levels.

Rising vehicle ownership, infrastructure development and improved economic conditions in developing nations are fueling the Internal Combustion Engine Market Demand for commercial vehicles which use internal combustion engines. The global commercial vehicle stock is projected to double by 2050.

Technological advancements such as variable valve timing, direct fuel injection and turbocharging have enhanced engine efficiencies. Dual fuel technology allows engines to operate on more than one type of fuel such as compressed natural gas and gasoline. Alternative fuels like ethanol and biodiesel blends are also being utilized to reduce emissions.

Market Trends

Growing demand for natural gas vehicles: Governments across regions are promoting use of natural gas vehicles through fiscal incentives to reduce fossil fuel consumption. Bi-fuel or dual fuel engines capable of running on both petrol/diesel and natural gas are gaining traction. Countries like India and Brazil have large natural gas vehicle fleet.

Shift towards renewable fuels: Rising awareness about environmental impact is propelling research into production of renewable fuels from non-food biomass, municipal solid waste and agricultural residues. Drop-in biofuels compatible with internal combustion engines are being developed.

Market OpportunitiesAlternative fuel infrastructure development: Lack of refueling infrastructure remains a key challenge for widespread adoption of alternative fuel vehicles. Concerted efforts by public-private entities to set up wider network of CNG, LNG and biofuel pumps can boost NGV sales.

Technology transfer to emerging economies: Internal combustion engine technology companies have scope to expand presence in emerging markets of Africa and Asia through joint-ventures or manufacturing facilities. This will catalyze economic growth while meeting the surging demand for vehicles in these regions.

Impact of COVID-19 on Internal Combustion Engine Market growth

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the internal combustion engine market growth globally. During the initial months of the pandemic, most countries imposed strict lockdowns and movement restrictions to curb the virus spread. This led to a steep decline in industrial and manufacturing activities worldwide. As internal combustion engines are majorly used in automobiles, construction equipment, power generators, marine engines etc., the reduced demand from end-use industries negatively influenced the engine market.

With halted production lines and suspended operations, companies faced difficulties in sourcing raw materials and components. International trade restrictions further disrupted global supply chains. This led to project delays and postponed capital expenditures. The decline in disposable income and economic uncertainties also lowered consumer spending on vehicles and heavy equipment. All these factors cumulatively slowed down the internal combustion engine market expansion in 2020.

However, with mass vaccination drives and relaxation of lockdown measures in 2021, the market is gradually recovering. The resumption of construction activities and infrastructure projects has boosted the demand from off-road applications. Further, pent-up consumer demand and availability of finance schemes are stimulating automobile sales. Engine manufacturers are now focusing on developing advanced technologies to comply with stringent emission norms. They are increasingly adopting hybrid systems and integrating batteries to enhance engine efficiency. With continued economic recovery and strategic initiatives, analysts predict above-average growth rates for the internal combustion engine market in the coming years.

In terms of geographical value concentration, North America currently dominates the internal combustion engine market, accounting for over 30% of the global revenue share. This is attributed to large-scale automobile production and a strong presence of leading OEMs in the US and Canada. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region represents the fastest growing market for internal combustion engines globally. Countries like China, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam are experiencing robust industrialization and infrastructure development. With rising disposable incomes, growing vehicle fleet, and expanding manufacturing sector, the regional demand for engines is accelerating at a double-digit CAGR.

Get more insight on - Internal Combustion Engine Market

Get this Report in Japanese Language: 内燃機関市場

Get this Report in Korean Language: 내연기관시장

About Author:

Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)

collect
0
avatar
Kajal Patil
guide
Zupyak is the world’s largest content marketing community, with over 400 000 members and 3 million articles. Explore and get your content discovered.
Read more