Europe Drive Shaft Market Size, Share, and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2031

Drive Shaft Market Analysis

Drive shaft market is experiencing significant growth driven by the rising demand for efficient power transmission systems in automotive and industrial applications. Factors such as the increasing production of vehicles, including electric and hybrid models, have heightened the need for advanced drive shaft solutions. Technological innovations, such as the development of lightweight materials and enhanced design features, are further propelling market expansion by improving performance and fuel efficiency. In addition, the trend towards automation in various industries is boosting the adoption of drive shafts in machinery and equipment. However, challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and stringent regulations on emissions may impact market dynamics. Overall, the market is expected to continue growing, supported by ongoing advancements and increasing demand across multiple sectors.

Drive Shaft Market Size

Europe drive shaft market is expected to reach a value of USD 5.13 billion by 2031 from USD 3.46 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period 2024 to 2031. In addition to the market insights such as market value, growth rate, market segments, geographical coverage, market players, and market scenario, the market report curated by the Data Bridge Market Research team includes in-depth expert analysis, import/export analysis, pricing analysis, production consumption analysis, and PESTLE analysis.

Drive Shaft Market Trends

"Rising Demand for Drive Shafts in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles"

The increasing adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles is a major trend shaping the Europe drive shaft market. As automotive manufacturers shift towards eco-friendly solutions, the demand for lightweight and high-performance drive shafts has risen. Drive shafts play a crucial role in efficiently transferring power from the engine or electric motor to the wheels, ensuring smooth and reliable performance in electric and hybrid drivetrains.

In addition, advancements in material technology are enabling manufacturers to develop durable and lightweight drive shafts, enhancing the overall energy efficiency of vehicles. This trend is further accelerated by stringent emissions regulations and the Europe push towards sustainability. The drive shaft market is expected to see significant growth as electric vehicle adoption expands and innovations in automotive technology continue to evolve, making it a vital component in the future of mobility.

Report Scope and Drive Shaft Market segmentation

Drive Shaft Market Definition

The drive shaft market refers to the industry focused on the production, distribution, and sale of drive shafts, which are mechanical components used to transmit torque and rotation in vehicles and machinery. These shafts connect different parts of a drivetrain, such as the transmission and the wheels in automotive applications, enabling efficient power transfer. The market encompasses various types of drive shafts, including propeller shafts, half shafts, and Constant Velocity (CV) joints, catering to sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial machinery. Key factors influencing the market include advancements in vehicle technology, growing demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, and increasing focus on lightweight materials for improved fuel efficiency.

Drive Shaft Market Dynamics

Drivers

• Increasing Automotive Production

The increasing global automotive production is significantly driving the demand for drive shafts, as they are a critical component in the power transmission system of vehicles. Automakers worldwide are focused on ramping up production to meet rising consumer demand, particularly in developed regions such as North America and Europe and Asia-pacific, where the demand for passenger vehicles has grown steadily. Drive shafts are essential in transferring torque from the engine to the wheels, ensuring efficient vehicle performance and handling. As automakers invest in producing more advanced, high-performance vehicles, the need for durable, lightweight drive shafts have increased, pushing manufacturers to innovate and develop more efficient drive shaft solutions.

For instance,

In December 2022, according to the article published by BioAge Group, LLC, Kalyani Mobility Drivelines (KMD) launched a new family of high-performance Constant Velocity (CV) driveshafts designed for Electric Vehicles (EVs), military, and specialty vehicles. These driveshafts, made from high-strength steel, are engineered to handle high torque levels (up to 16,000 N·m) and speeds up to 8,000 rpm. This development enhances KMD's product portfolio, offering durable, flexible, and high-performance driveline solutions. As global automotive production continues to rise, particularly in the EVs segment, KMD’s new driveshafts position the company to benefit from the increasing demand for advanced driveline components in the growing electrified vehicle market.

• Demand for Lightweight Vehicles

The growing demand for lightweight vehicles, driven by increasing fuel efficiency regulations and the shift towards electric vehicles, is boosting the global drive shaft market. Manufacturers are focusing on producing lightweight drive shafts using materials like carbon fiber and aluminum to enhance vehicle performance while reducing emissions. These advancements not only improve vehicle handling but also contribute to lower fuel consumption, making them essential in the automotive industry's efforts to meet environmental standards and consumer preferences for fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles.

For instance,

In July 2024, Horn introduced a new milling tool with indexable inserts for machining splines on PTO shafts. This high-performance tool, designed for standard PTO shaft diameters, features internal coolant supply and carbide inserts for efficient machining. Horn's tool allows precise spline milling, even in restricted shaft clearances, enhancing productivity. This innovation supports the demand for lightweight vehicles by enabling precise drive shaft production, which is key to improving power transmission efficiency and reducing vehicle weight.

Opportunities

• Growth in Automotive Industries in Emerging Economies

The increasing automotive industries in emerging economies present a significant opportunity for the drive shaft market. As countries such as India, Brazil, and various Southeast Asian nations continue to experience rapid urbanization and economic growth, there is a rising demand for personal and commercial vehicles. This surge in vehicle production not only drives the need for high-quality drive shafts but also encourages manufacturers to innovate and offer advanced materials and technologies that enhance vehicle performance and efficiency. The expanding middle class in these regions is further propelling automotive sales, thus increasing the market potential for drive shaft manufacturers.

For instance,

In April 2022, according to the article published by the International Energy Agency (IEA), there has been a rapid global increase in electric car sales, driven by policy support, reduced battery costs, and greater investments in EVs infrastructure. This expansion is now extending into emerging markets, which creates a significant opportunity for the drive shaft market. As electric vehicle production accelerates, there will be heightened demand for lighter, high-performance drive shafts designed for EVs powertrains, offering substantial growth potential in these regions.

• Growing Demand in the Off-Highway Vehicle Segment

The growing demand in the off-highway vehicle segment presents significant opportunities for the drive shaft market. As industries such as construction, agriculture, and mining continue to expand, the need for robust and reliable drive shafts becomes increasingly critical. Off-highway vehicles, which operate in rugged and challenging environments, require components that can withstand harsh conditions while delivering optimal performance. Ongoing infrastructure development projects drive this rising demand, an increase in agricultural mechanization, and a surge in mining activities, all of which necessitate the use of robust and durable machinery equipped with advanced drive systems.

For instance,

In July 2024, as per the report published by KHL Group LLP, Dana Inc. is adapting to the off-highway vehicle market's shift towards electrification through its Off-Highway Drive and Motion Systems division. Senior VP Jeroen Decleer highlights the expansion of Dana's portfolio to include electric motors, inverters, and control systems while maintaining a focus on traditional drivetrain products. This evolution presents significant opportunities for the drive shaft market as the demand for advanced systems that efficiently manage energy flow in electric vehicles increases. By enhancing collaboration with customers and focusing on application-specific solutions, Dana is paving the way for innovation in the drive shaft sector to meet the changing needs of the off-highway market

Restraints/Challenges

• High Costs of Advanced Materials

High costs associated with advanced materials pose a significant restraint on the drive shaft market. While innovations in materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum, and composites promise enhanced performance and weight reduction, their elevated price tags can deter manufacturers from widespread adoption. This financial barrier is particularly challenging for smaller companies or those operating on tight margins, as the increased production costs may be passed on to consumers, leading to higher retail prices for vehicles. Consequently, the reluctance to invest in these advanced materials may hinder the overall growth of the drive shaft market, limiting the potential benefits of technological advancements that could improve vehicle efficiency and performance.

This market report provides details of new recent developments, trade regulations, import-export analysis, production analysis, value chain optimization, market share, impact of domestic and localized market players, analyses opportunities in terms of emerging revenue pockets, changes in market regulations, strategic market growth analysis, market size, category market growths, application niches and dominance, product approvals, product launches, geographic expansions, technological innovations in the market. To gain more info on the market contact Data Bridge Market Research for an Analyst Brief, our team will help you take an informed market decision to achieve market growth.

Drive Shaft Market Scope

Europe drive shaft market is segmented into seven notable segments on the basis of components, design type, drive shaft type, position type, material type, vehicle type and sales channel. The growth amongst these segments will help you analyse meagre growth segments in the industries and provide the users with a valuable market overview and market insights to help them make strategic decisions for identifying core market applications.

Components

• Slip Yokes
• Yoke Shafts
• End Yokes
• Companion Flanges
• Flange Yokes
• Weld Yokes
• Center Yokes
• Splined Slip Stubs
• Midship Stubs
• Others

Design Type

• Hollow Shaft
• Solid Shaft

Drive Shaft Type

• Hotchkiss Drive Shaft
• Torque tube Drive Shaft
• Flexible Drive Shaft
• Slip-in-Tube Drive Shaft

Position Type

• Front Axle
• Rear Axle

Material Type

• Carbon Steel
• Aluminum
• Stainless Steel
• Composite Materials
• Carbon Fiber
• Others

Vehicle Type

• Passenger Cars
  • By Type
    • SUV
    • Hatchback
    • Sedan
    • Sports Car
    • Others
• Commercial Vehicle
  • By Type
    • Light Commercial Vehicle
      • Pickup Van
      • Mini Truck
      • Mini Van
      • Others
    • Heavy Commercial Vehicle
      • Truck
      • Buses
      • Others

Sales Channel

• OEM
• Aftermarket

Drive Shaft Market Regional Analysis

The market is segmented into seven notable segments on the basis of components, design type, drive shaft type, position type, material type, vehicle type and sales channel as referenced above.

The countries covered in the report are Germany, U.K., France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Netherlands, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Switzerland, Belgium, and Rest of Europe

Germany dominates the market due to its rapidly expanding automotive industry, increased vehicle production, and rising demand for commercial vehicles. In addition, growing investments in infrastructure and transportation drive demand for advanced automotive components.

The country section of the report also provides individual market impacting factors and changes in market regulation that impact the current and future trends of the market. Data points like down-stream and upstream value chain analysis, technical trends and porter's five forces analysis, case studies are some of the pointers used to forecast the market scenario for individual countries. Also, the presence and availability of Europe brands and their challenges faced due to large or scarce competition from local and domestic brands, impact of domestic tariffs and trade routes are considered while providing forecast analysis of the country data.  

Drive Shaft Market Share

Europe drive shaft market competitive landscape provides details of the competitor. Details included are company overview, company financials, revenue generated, market potential, investment in research and development, new market initiatives, production sites and facilities, production capacities, company strengths and weaknesses, product launch, product width and breadth, application dominance. The above data points provided are only related to the companies' focus related to Europe drive shaft market.

Drive Shaft Market Leaders Operating in the Market are:

• Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG (Germany)
• Welte Rohrbiegetechnik GmbH (Germany)
• American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. (U.S.)
• Bailey Morris (U.K.)
• D&F Propshafts (U.K.)
• Cummins Inc. (U.S.)
• Neapco Inc. (U.S.)
• Nexteer Automotive (U.S.)
• HYUNDAI WIA CORP (South Korea)
• JTEKT Corporation (Japan)
• THE TIMKEN COMPANY (U.S.)
• Aequita SE&Co. KGaA (Germany)
• Hitachi Astemo, Ltd. (Japan)
• GSP EUROPE GmbH (Germany)
• BG Automotive LTD (U.K.)
• TUNGALOY CORPORATION (Japan)
• GKN Automotive Limited (U.K.)

Latest Developments in Drive Shaft Market

• In September 2024, Cummins acquisition of Jacobs Vehicle Systems, including Clessie Cummins' revolutionary Jake Brake system. Originally inspired by a harrowing 1931 journey, the Jake Brake transforms engine braking, enhancing safety and efficiency for truckers. This innovation reflects Cummins' commitment to advanced engine technologies and safer transport solutions
• In September 2023, JTEKT announces advancements in automotive technology at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, showcasing innovations in steering and driveline systems aimed at enhancing vehicle performance and driving comfort for future mobility
• In August 2024, Nexteer introduces a cost-effective modular pinion assist Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, now available for all EPS architectures, enhancing flexibility and performance in steering solutions for various vehicles
• In May 2023, American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM) announced it had secured a contract to supply e-Beam axles for a future Stellantis electric vehicle program, featuring integrated 3-in-1 e-Drive technology, set to begin production later in the decade
• In December 2021, AEQUITA SE & Co. KGaA has finalized a binding agreement to fully acquire IFA Group, a prominent specialist in drive shafts, which elevates AEQUITA's automotive sector sales to over EUR 1 billion. This acquisition strengthens AEQUITA's position in the drive shaft market by capitalizing on IFA's innovative technologies and strong reputation among major automotive OEMs, setting the stage for ongoing growth and a competitive edge in the industry

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