Nov. 05, 2024
Global Electric Tailgate Market: Rising Demand for Toyota RAV4 2013-2018 Parts
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, smart and automated components are becoming an integral part of the global market. Among these, the electric tailgate, a modern automotive innovation, has gained widespread popularity for its convenience and premium feel. In the SUV segment, the demand for electric tailgates is experiencing rapid growth. According to market data from 2024, the electric tailgate parts market for the 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 has entered a phase of accelerated development, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years. This article will delve into the current state of this niche market, its trends, and future prospects, offering valuable insights for global auto parts importers, traders, and dealers.
The electric tailgate, as a smart feature, allows users to open and close the tailgate of their vehicle automatically via a remote control or an in-car button. Compared to traditional manual tailgates, electric tailgates not only offer greater convenience but also enhance vehicle safety and add a premium touch. With increasing consumer demand for enhanced comfort in vehicles and continuous technological advancements, more and more SUV models are being equipped with electric tailgates as standard or optional features. The Toyota RAV4, a highly popular SUV, introduced electric tailgates as an option in its 2013-2018 models, further driving demand in this market segment.
According to IHS Markit, a global market research firm, the global electric tailgate market reached approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2023, and it is projected to exceed USD 2 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11%. The growth is particularly strong in the Asian markets, especially in emerging economies like China and India, where the demand for electric tailgates has surged.
Since its launch, the Toyota RAV4 has been one of the best-selling SUVs globally. The 2013-2018 models came equipped with a range of advanced technology features, including the optional electric tailgate. For RAV4 owners, the electric tailgate not only enhances functionality but also elevates the driving experience.
According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), between 2013 and 2018, the Toyota RAV4 sold over 1.5 million units in China alone. This figure highlights the stable growth of RAV4 sales in the Chinese market, providing strong support for the demand for related parts, particularly electric tailgates. As consumers increasingly seek to upgrade and replace automotive parts, electric tailgates have become a hot spot for replacements and upgrades.
The latest reports from China’s automotive parts market show that the penetration rate of electric tailgates in SUV models has risen from 24% in 2017 to 42% in 2023. Among these, the Toyota RAV4 accounts for a significant share of the electric tailgate parts market. By 2025, the replacement market for electric tailgates is expected to reach approximately USD 3 billion.
The production and sale of electric tailgates involves multiple stages, including raw material suppliers, parts manufacturers, and automotive dealers. The electric tailgate parts market for the Toyota RAV4 is dominated by several global and local suppliers, including major players such as Bosch, Magna, and Denso.
In China, a growing number of local automotive parts manufacturers are getting involved in the production of electric tailgate systems, offering complete solutions from tailgate modules to control systems. As local manufacturing capabilities improve, many domestic suppliers are securing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket (AM) contracts, further strengthening the local supply chain.
With the continuous improvement in smart and automated technologies, electric tailgates are no longer limited to basic opening and closing functions. More advanced features, such as sensor-based detection, remote control, and automatic reverse opening, are being integrated into electric tailgate systems. These technological advancements broaden the application scenarios and increase the market competitiveness of electric tailgates.
Consumers are increasingly looking for personalized and customized automotive parts. As a high-end feature, the electric tailgate offers consumers the convenience of a smart, tailored experience. Many car manufacturers are now offering customized options for electric tailgates, including different opening methods, color matching, and additional functionality, to cater to the diverse needs of consumers.
As the number of cars on the road continues to rise, the demand for aftermarket parts is becoming an important growth driver for electric tailgates. According to Grand View Research, the global automotive aftermarket industry surpassed USD 500 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach approximately USD 820 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 6.8%. The replacement and repair market for electric tailgates represents a significant opportunity within this sector.
The global electric tailgate market is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years, particularly in emerging markets such as China and India, where the adoption rate of electric tailgates is projected to rise significantly. For global auto parts importers, traders, and dealers, capitalizing on the growing demand for electric tailgates will be a key avenue for success in the coming years.
In summary, as consumers increasingly demand smarter, more comfortable, and premium automotive features, electric tailgates will become an even more integral part of the automotive landscape. For stakeholders in the automotive parts industry, seizing the opportunity in this growing market segment will be essential to achieving commercial success.
References:
IHS Markit, "Global Automotive Parts Market Report 2024," 2024.
China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), "China Automotive Industry Annual Report 2023," 2023.
Grand View Research, "Automotive Aftermarket Industry Analysis," 2024.
Market Research Future, "Electric Tailgate Market Forecast," 2023.
