Automotive Control Cables Market Size - By Cable, By Material, By Vehicle, By Application, By Sales Channel, Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Automotive Control Cables Market Size

The automotive control cables market was valued at USD 4.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4% between 2025 and 2034, driven by the increasing global production of passenger and commercial vehicles. As more vehicles are manufactured annually, especially in developing regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America, the demand for essential mechanical components like control cables rises accordingly. These cables play a vital role in core vehicle functions such as clutch, brake, throttle, and gear shifting systems.
 

For instance, according to Statista, revenue in the passenger cars market is projected to reach USD 2.6 trillion in 2025. Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025-2029) of 2.25%, resulting in a projected market volume of USD 2.8 trillion by 2029. The market's largest segment is SUVs with a projected market volume of USD 1.1 trillion in 2025.
 

The shift toward electric and hybrid vehicles is emerging as a significant growth driver for the automotive control cables market. While EVs reduce the use of traditional engine-related cables, they still require advanced control cables for applications like battery compartment access, HVAC systems, charging ports, and seat or door mechanisms. Hybrid vehicles, which combine internal combustion engines with electric drivetrains, continue to rely on conventional control cables alongside new cable types for added components.
 

For instance, nearly 14 million new electric cars were registered across the globe in 2023 which brings the total to 40 million; there were 3.5 million more electric cars sold in 2023 as compared to 2022 which is a 35% increase in that figure, that exceeds the sales in 2018 by over six times, states the International Energy Agency.
 

Automotive Control Cables Market Trends

• Manufacturers are increasingly adopting lightweight and high-strength materials such as advanced polymers and aluminum to reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency. These materials offer better corrosion resistance and durability, especially in harsh environments.
   
• In developing regions like India, Southeast Asia, and Africa, the aftermarket for control cables is expanding rapidly due to increasing vehicle age, low replacement costs, and lack of widespread electrification. Consumers in these markets often prefer repairing over replacing vehicles, creating steady demand for throttle, clutch, and brake cables in local workshops and spare parts retailers.
   
• While EVs reduce engine-related cable usage, they require specialized control cables for battery packs, powertrain actuators, and electronic modules. Automakers are integrating mechanical and hybrid cable systems to complement electronic controls. This trend is prompting manufacturers to develop new cable configurations that meet the thermal, space, and performance needs of next-gen EV architectures.
   
• Automotive OEMs are increasingly demanding customized and modular control cable systems tailored to specific vehicle models and layouts. This trend supports better integration with compact vehicle architectures, especially in EVs and urban mobility solutions. Modular cables reduce installation time and enable easier maintenance, which is particularly valuable for fleet operators and commercial vehicles.
   

Trump Administration Tariffs

• Tariffs on imported steel, aluminum, and automotive components will continue to raise raw material and production costs for control cable manufacturers. This is expected to pressure margins and force companies to seek alternate supply chains or increase product prices, potentially reducing competitiveness and demand in price-sensitive segments, especially in North America.
   
• Manufacturers are likely to diversify their sourcing and manufacturing bases to countries unaffected by tariffs, reducing dependency on China and other targeted nations. This shift will cause temporary disruptions and increased logistics costs but may lead to more resilient supply chains in the long term, with greater investments in Southeast Asia or Mexico.
   
• U.S. based manufacturers may face reduced export competitiveness due to retaliatory tariffs imposed by other nations. This will likely lead to a decline in overseas demand for American-made control cables, prompting companies to focus more on domestic markets or realign their export strategies toward tariff-neutral regions.
   

Automotive Control Cables Market Analysis

Based on materials, the market is divided into steel, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), nylon, rubber coated, and others. In 2024, the steel segment dominated the market accounting for around 46% share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 4% during 2025 to 2034.
 

• Steel holds the highest market share in the automotive control cables market due to its superior mechanical strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. It offers excellent resistance to tension, compression, and environmental stress, making it ideal for high-performance applications such as clutch, brake, and accelerator cables.
   
• Additionally, steel is widely available and easy to manufacture, which reduces production costs and supports large-scale applications in both OEM and aftermarket segments.
   
• As automakers prioritize performance and safety, steel remains the preferred material despite innovations in lightweight alternatives, especially in regions with demanding driving environments.

Based on vehicles, the automotive control cables market is segmented into passenger vehicles, two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles. In 2024, the passenger vehicles segment dominates the market with 63% of market share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 4% from 2025 to 2034.
 

• Passenger vehicles hold the highest market share in the market primarily due to their dominant presence in global vehicle production and ownership. The rising demand for compact cars, sedans, and SUVs, especially in emerging economies like India, China, and Southeast Asia that has led to increased consumption of control cables for applications such as braking, throttle, clutch, and gear shifting.
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• These vehicles require multiple control cable systems to support both manual and automatic functionalities. Additionally, urbanization, rising disposable income, and expanding middle-class populations globally have fueled the growth of passenger vehicle sales.
   
• For instance, according to Statista, in 2025, the revenue in the electric vehicles market is projected to reach a staggering US784 bn worldwide, and it is expected that the market will demonstrate a steady annual growth rate of 6%. This growth will ultimately lead to a projected market volume of US990 bn by 2029.
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Based on the application, the automotive control cables market is segmented into engine control, transmission control, braking system, HVAC system, and others, with the engine control category expected to dominate due to its critical role in ensuring precise and reliable vehicle performance.
 

• Engine control cables, such as throttle and accelerator cables, are essential for managing engine speed, fuel delivery, and overall responsiveness. These cables are universally present in both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and hybrid models, ensuring a broad application base.
   
• Additionally, commercial vehicles and two-wheelers heavily rely on mechanical cable systems for engine control, further supporting segment dominance. The ongoing need for efficient engine management and durability in varying road conditions reinforces the segment’s strong market position globally.
   
• For instance, in November 2024, Kawasaki launched the 2025 Z900 ABS Supernaked street bike, bringing a host of updates to its popular middleweight platform and engine control cables. The new Z900 ABS continues to embody Kawasaki’s “Sugomi” design philosophy, featuring sharper, more aggressive styling with a crouched stance and dynamic lines that reinforce its streetfighter character.

In 2024, the China region in Asia Pacific dominated the automotive control cables market with around 39% revenue share and generated around USD 716.1 million revenue.
 

• China holds the largest share in the Asia Pacific market, driven by its vast automotive manufacturing base and strong domestic vehicle demand. The country is a major hub for both OEM production and aftermarket cable supply, with numerous local and international players operating extensive manufacturing facilities.
   
• Growth is further supported by the expansion of electric vehicles (EVs), which require advanced control cable systems. Additionally, government incentives for vehicle production and rising exports of auto components enhance market potential.
   
• For example, in 2023, Statista estimates a supply of over 26 million passenger cars and more than four million commercial vehicles in China. China is also the leading producer of passenger cars with more than 26 million vehicles, and thus, holds the top position in the used cars market exports.
   

The U.S. automotive control cables market is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034, driven by a robust automotive manufacturing base, high vehicle ownership rates, and a strong aftermarket ecosystem. Demand is sustained by consistent replacement needs for brake, throttle, and clutch cables in passenger and commercial vehicles.
 

• Additionally, the growing adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles is creating demand for specialized control cable systems. Companies are focusing on product innovations and durable cable solutions to meet stringent safety and performance standards.
   
• For example, according to the Statista report, they forecasted that the revenue from the electric vehicles sector in the US will be approximately USD 95.9 billion by 2025. CAGR for the period 2025-2029 is estimated at 12.61%, which will increase the market volume to USD 154.2 billion by 2029
   

The automotive control cables market in the Germany is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034, due to its status as a global automotive manufacturing hub. The presence of major OEMs and a strong tier-1 supplier network drives consistent demand for high-quality control cables.
 

• Additionally, Germany’s growing focus on electric vehicles is prompting manufacturers to develop specialized cable solutions for hybrid and EV platforms. The robust aftermarket sector and export-oriented production further bolster market growth in the region.
   
• As an example, Statista claimed by May 2024, two out of the three bestselling car brands and three out of the ten largest car manufacturers are German. Such statistics show that Germany’s car industry is developing which in turn drives the development of the electric motor horn market.
   

The automotive control cables market in the UAE is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034, driven by strong demand for passenger and light commercial vehicles, supported by rising disposable incomes and infrastructure development. The country’s role as a regional automotive hub boosts demand for both OEM and aftermarket control cables.
 

• Additionally, the UAE’s growing preference for premium and luxury vehicles requires advanced control systems, encouraging suppliers to offer high-performance, durable cables.
   
• For example, Statista claims that the estimated portion of electric vehicles out of total car sales in Saudi Arabia will significantly increase over the next decade, reaching a projected 64 percent share of total vehicle sales in 2035.
   

Automotive Control Cables Market Share

• Top 7 companies of the automotive control cables industry are Hi-Lex Corporation, DURA Automotive Systems, Trelleborg, TE Connectivity, Yazaki Corporation, Furukawa Electric, and Aptiv PLC holding around 34% of the market in 2024.
   
• Hi-Lex focuses on enhancing product performance through continuous R&D in lightweight and durable cable systems. The company emphasizes partnerships with global OEMs and expanding production capabilities in key markets like Asia and North America. It invests in automation and smart manufacturing technologies to boost efficiency while meeting stringent automotive quality and safety standards.
   
• DURA Automotive Systems prioritizes innovation in advanced cable technologies, including shift and brake cables for electric and autonomous vehicles. The company is expanding its global footprint through strategic partnerships and manufacturing facility upgrades. DURA also integrates sustainability into its operations, aiming to reduce emissions and improve material efficiency in its control cable products.
   
• Trelleborg leverages its expertise in polymer engineering to deliver high-performance control cable components that enhance vehicle reliability and comfort. The company targets growth by investing in localized production, especially in Europe and Asia, and by aligning its offerings with EV and hybrid vehicle trends. Trelleborg also emphasizes sustainability by adopting eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient processes.
   

Automotive Control Cables Market Companies

Major players operating in the automotive control cables industry are:

• Aptiv
• Cablecraft Motion Controls
• DURA Automotive Systems
• Furukawa Electric
• Hi-Lex
• Kongsberg Automotive
• Lear
• TE Connectivity
• Trelleborg
• Yazaki
   

The current market strategy in the automotive control cables market focuses on enhancing product durability, cost-efficiency, and lightweight design to meet evolving OEM requirements. Companies emphasize strategic partnerships with automakers, expansion into high-growth emerging markets, and development of cables for electric and hybrid vehicles. Additionally, there is a strong focus on aftermarket service networks and localization of manufacturing to reduce costs and improve supply chain agility.
 

Companies in the automotive control cables market also prioritize technological innovation by integrating advanced materials and automated manufacturing processes to improve performance and consistency. Sustainability is becoming a key focus, with efforts to develop eco-friendly cable coatings and recyclable components. Moreover, firms are investing in R&D to design control cables compatible with next-gen vehicle architectures, while also leveraging digital tools to streamline distribution and enhance customer service efficiency.
 

Automotive Control Cables Industry News

• In December 2024, Suprajit Engineering expanded its operations by launching a new subsidiary, Suprajit Chuhatsu Control Systems, in India. This strategic move aims to enhance the company's presence in the growing automotive components sector. The subsidiary will focus on manufacturing and trading control cables, transmission cables, and associated mechanisms to meet the increasing demand in both domestic and international markets.
   
• In July 2024, Leoni, a leading automotive wiring specialist, introduced its innovative LIMEVERSE product line, featuring 100% recyclable automotive cables. These cables represent a significant step toward sustainable mobility by drastically reducing the carbon footprint of vehicles—up to 50% compared to conventional cables. The LIMEVERSE cables utilize bio-based insulation materials derived from renewable resources instead of crude oil.
   
• In January 2025, V-Marc India Limited, a prominent manufacturer of wires and cables in India, expanded its operations into Kerala. This strategic move involves the launch of innovative wire and cable products, including Flexi-TUF eB-HFFR Wires and eB+ Power Cables. These products are powered by electron beam (eBeam) technology and feature eco-friendly insulation materials, replacing hazardous PVC with XLPO-based polymers
   
• In November 2024, Suprajit Engineering formed a strategic partnership with Japan's Chuo Spring Company Ltd through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a Technical Assistance (TA) agreement. This collaboration establishes a 50:50 joint venture (JV) in India focused on designing, manufacturing, and supplying transmission cables, leveraging Chuo Spring's proprietary Japanese transmission cable technology. The JV will initially cater to India's two leading Japanese passenger vehicle OEMs, expanding Suprajit's product portfolio and strengthening its position in the automotive cable market.
   

The automotive control cables market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue ($ Mn/Bn) and shipment (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Cable

• Clutch cables
• Accelerator cables
• Brake cables
• Gear shift cables
• Handbrake cables
• Throttle cables
• Others

Market, By Material

• Steel
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
• Nylon
• Rubber coated
• Others

Market, by Vehicle

• Passenger vehicles
  • Hatchback
  • Sedan
  • SUV 
• Two-wheelers
• Commercial vehicles
  • Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV)
  • Medium Commercial Vehicles (MCV)
  • Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCV)

Market, by Application

• Engine control
• Transmission control
• Braking system
• HVAC system
• Others

Market, by Sales Channel

• OEM
• Aftermarket

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Nordics
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa