An automotive hydraulic system utilizes fluid under pressure to generate, control, and transmit power within vehicles. It plays a vital role in critical functions such as braking, steering, and suspension, offering precise control and high-force application. By ensuring reliable power transfer with minimal mechanical effort, hydraulic systems enhance vehicle safety, comfort, and performance. These systems are integral to conventional and electric vehicles, evolving alongside automotive technologies to deliver optimal functionality and an improved driving experience.
The global automotive hydraulic system market is witnessing consistent growth as manufacturers focus on enhancing vehicle performance and safety. This growth is driven by the increasing shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technologies, where hydraulic systems are essential in steering, braking, and suspension. Moreover, stricter fuel efficiency and emission regulations in key regions have boosted the adoption of hydraulic systems, as they offer greater precision and control compared to traditional mechanical systems.
The push toward greener vehicles has led to the production of more fuel-efficient and low-emission models. Hydraulic systems contribute significantly to this transition by improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions, particularly in electric and hybrid vehicles. Advanced hydraulic systems help optimize energy usage in braking and suspension, improving overall energy efficiency.
Additionally, they reduce vehicle weight, which further enhances fuel economy. The growing global emphasis on environmentally friendly vehicles, fueled by concerns over climate change, has resulted in stricter emissions standards, encouraging the use of hydraulic systems.
- Germany became the third country after China and the United States to register over half a million new battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in a year, with 18% of all car sales being battery electric and another 6% plug-in hybrids. This surge in EV adoption highlights the rising demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, which depend on advanced hydraulic systems for superior performance and energy efficiency.
Emerging markets for electric vehicles present a significant growth opportunity for the global automotive hydraulic system industry. Countries like China, India, and Brazil are witnessing a surge in domestic EV production, driven by government incentives for green technology investments and growing consumer awareness of eco-friendly transportation. As demand for mid-range and budget electric vehicles grows, hydraulic systems will improve vehicle performance and safety in these segments.
- In Europe, nearly 3.2 million new electric vehicles were registered in 2023, marking a 20% increase from 2022. The European Union accounted for 2.4 million of these registrations, further boosting demand for advanced hydraulic systems in electric vehicles.
Asia-Pacific holds the largest share of the global automotive hydraulic system market, driven by the rapid growth of its automotive industry. Key contributors include China, Japan, and India, which produce and sell millions of vehicles annually. The demand for fuel-efficient, technologically advanced vehicles in this region continues to propel the adoption of sophisticated hydraulic systems. China is the largest automotive market globally, with a strong focus on electric vehicle (EV) adoption and advanced automotive technologies, further boosting the demand for hydraulic systems in braking and suspension applications. Domestic brands and international manufacturers, including Volkswagen and Toyota, invest heavily in the automotive sector, further enhancing market growth.
Furthermore, the region is supported by the demand for fuel-efficient and technologically advanced vehicles, driving the adoption of sophisticated systems. The competitive environment of numerous car manufacturers and distributors enhances Asia-Pacific’s leading position in the global market.
- The global automotive hydraulic system market size was worth USD 39.2 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach an expected value of USD 65.67 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period (2025-2033).
- Based on hydraulic system type, the global automotive hydraulic system market is segmented into hydraulic braking systems, hydraulic steering systems, hydraulic suspension systems, hydraulic powertrain systems, and hydraulic actuators and pumps. The hydraulic braking system segment holds the highest market share.
- Based on Application, the global automotive hydraulic system market is segmented into steering & suspension, braking systems, transmission & powertrain, safety & control systems, and chassis systems. The Steering & Suspension segment owns the highest market.
- Based on Component, the global automotive hydraulic system market is segmented into hydraulic pumps, hydraulic actuators, hydraulic valves, hydraulic cylinders, and hydraulic fluids. The hydraulic pumps segment holds the highest market share.
- Based on Sales Channel, the global automotive hydraulic system market is segmented into OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and aftermarket. The OEMs segment owns the highest market share.
- Based on Region, the global automotive hydraulic system market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. Asia-Pacific holds the highest market share.
- Bosch Automotive
- BorgWarner Inc.
- ZF Friedrichshafen AG
- Eaton Corporation
- Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd.
- JTEKT Corporation
- Hyundai Mobis
- Parker Hannifin Corporation
- Mando Corporation
- Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd.
- In June 2024, BorgWarner began production of its wet clutch and hydraulic control module for Buick’s GL8 PHEV van, contributing to the efficiency and performance of the 2-speed hybrid transmission in China’s growing new energy vehicle market.
- In September 2024, ZF secured a long-term agreement with Ford Trucks to supply electric drives, including the CeTrax 2 dual central electric drive and Electrically Powered Hydraulic Steering Pump (EPHS), bolstering its position as Europe's leader in electric commercial drives.
- By Hydraulic System Type
- Hydraulic Braking System
- Hydraulic Steering System
- Hydraulic Suspension System
- Hydraulic Powertrain System
- Hydraulic Actuators and Pumps
- By Application
- Steering & Suspension
- Braking Systems
- Transmission & Powertrain
- Safety & Control Systems
- Chassis Systems
- By Component
- Hydraulic Pumps
- Hydraulic Actuators
- Hydraulic Valves
- Hydraulic Cylinders
- Hydraulic Fluids
- By Sales Channel
- OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers)
- Aftermarket
- By Regions
- North America
- Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- Latin America
- The Middle East and Africa