Automotive Engineering Services Outsourcing Market Size - By Services, By Application, By Vehicle, By Location, By End Use, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Automotive Engineering Services Outsourcing Market Size

The global automotive engineering services outsourcing market size was valued at USD 110.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.7% between 2025 and 2034. The rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is a major growth driver for the market as it demands a complete redesign of traditional vehicle architecture. EV development involves complex engineering in battery management systems, electric drivetrains, thermal management, charging infrastructure, and power electronics. OEMs often lack in-house capabilities or sufficient bandwidth to handle this transition at scale, prompting them to outsource to ESO providers with domain-specific expertise.
 

For instance, according to IEA, they released their “Global EV Outlook 2025” and stated that electric car sales topped 17 million worldwide in 2024, rising by more than 25%. At the end of 2024, the electric car fleet had reached almost 58 million, about 4% of the total passenger car fleet and more than triple the total electric car fleet in 2021. Almost half of China’s car sales were electric in 2024, representing almost two-thirds of electric cars sold globally.
 

The integration of connected car technologies is a major growth driver for the automotive engineering services outsourcing (ESO) market as vehicles increasingly function like mobile computing platforms. Features such as real-time navigation, over-the-air (OTA) updates, telematics, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication require specialized software, cloud integration, and cybersecurity expertise. OEMs outsource these complex tasks to ESO providers to ensure rapid innovation, cost efficiency, and scalability.
 

Additionally, the demand for personalized in-car experiences and data-driven services is pushing automakers to develop advanced infotainment and connectivity platforms. ESO firms play a key role in enabling these capabilities by offering engineering support in embedded software, system integration, and end-to-end validation, thereby accelerating connected vehicle development across global markets.
 

Automotive Engineering Services Outsourcing Market Trends

• Automakers are transitioning to software-defined vehicles, where software controls most vehicle functions—from infotainment to driving systems. This shift increases the demand for outsourced services in embedded software development, cloud integration, and real-time system updates. ESO providers are evolving from pure hardware design partners to holistic software engineering collaborators.
   
• To reduce development time and costs, OEMs and suppliers are increasingly adopting virtual prototyping and digital twin technologies. This trend enables simulation and validation of vehicle performance in a virtual environment before physical production. ESO providers are supporting this transformation by offering advanced simulation tools and model-based systems engineering.
   
• With growing connectivity and autonomous functions, vehicles are more vulnerable to cyber threats. As a result, cybersecurity has become a critical component of automotive design. Engineering services are now being outsourced for security architecture design, threat detection algorithms, and penetration testing. ESO firms with strong cybersecurity capabilities are seeing growing demand.
   
• To meet global project demands and reduce costs, ESO providers are expanding their global delivery models through nearshore and offshore development centers. This allows them to offer time-zone-aligned support, localized compliance expertise, and round-the-clock engineering services. The trend is particularly prominent among providers serving multinational OEMs seeking scalability and regional customization across Europe, Asia, and North America.
   

Automotive Engineering Services Outsourcing Market Analysis

Based on vehicles, the automotive engineering services outsourcing market is segmented into passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles. In 2024, the passenger vehicles dominated the market, accounting for around 68% share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 9% during the forecast period.
 

• The passenger vehicles segment holds the highest market share in the automotive engineering services outsourcing (ESO) market due to its large production volume and continuous demand for innovation. OEMs are increasingly outsourcing engineering services for passenger vehicles to accelerate the development of advanced technologies such as ADAS, infotainment systems, electrification, and autonomous driving.
   
• The rising consumer expectations for safety, comfort, and connectivity further drive the need for specialized engineering capabilities that are often sourced externally.
   
• Additionally, passenger vehicles are central to automakers' global strategies, leading to increased R&D investments, especially in EV and hybrid variants. Outsourcing enables manufacturers to optimize costs, scale resources, and access domain-specific expertise.
   
• The growth of urban mobility and personalized transport solutions also contributes to sustained outsourcing demand within this segment, reinforcing its market dominance.
   
• For instance, according to ACEA, in the first quarter of 2025, new battery-electric car sales grew by 23.9%, to 412,997 units, capturing 15.2% of total EU market share. Three of the four largest markets in the EU, accounting for 63% of all battery-electric car registrations, recorded robust gains: Germany (+38.9%), Belgium (+29.9%), and the Netherlands (+7.9%).
   

Based on location, the automotive engineering services outsourcing market is segmented into onshore outsourcing and offshore outsourcing. In 2024, the offshore outsourcing segment dominates the market with 67% of market share, and the segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 9.1% from 2025 to 2034.
 

• Offshore outsourcing holds the highest market share in the automotive engineering services outsourcing (ESO) market due to its significant cost advantages and access to a large pool of skilled engineering talent in countries like India, China, and Eastern Europe.
   
• These regions offer specialized expertise in areas such as embedded systems, CAD/CAE modeling, and software development at lower operational costs compared to onshore locations. Offshore models also enable 24/7 work cycles due to time zone differences, accelerating development timelines.
   
• As automotive technologies become more software- and electronics-driven, companies increasingly rely on offshore partners to scale R&D efficiently while maintaining flexibility and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
   
• Furthermore, mature offshore service providers have developed robust infrastructure, quality standards, and compliance capabilities that meet global OEM and Tier 1 requirements.
   

Based on application, the automotive engineering services outsourcing market is segmented into body and exterior, powertrain and drivetrain, infotainment and telematics, ADAS and safety system, and others. In 2024, the ADAS and safety system segment is expected to dominate due to the increasing demand for intelligent, sensor-driven, and compliant safety technologies.
 

• Regulatory mandates in major regions such as Europe, North America, and Asia require OEMs to integrate features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control.
   
• Developing these complex systems requires deep domain expertise, rigorous validation, and rapid innovation—factors that drive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to outsource engineering services.
   
• Additionally, the rapid evolution toward autonomous driving significantly boosts the need for advanced perception, decision-making, and fail-safe system design.
   
• ESO providers support with hardware-software integration, sensor fusion, AI algorithm development, and system testing, making them critical partners in delivering reliable and regulatory-compliant ADAS solutions globally.
   

In 2024, the Germany region in Europe dominated the automotive engineering services outsourcing market with around 29% market share in Europe and generated around USD 11.1 billion in revenue.
 

• Germany holds the largest share of the automotive ESO market in Europe, driven by its position as a global automotive manufacturing and R&D hub. The presence of leading OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers fuels demand for advanced engineering services, particularly in electric mobility, autonomous driving, and digital vehicle platforms.
   
• German companies are increasingly partnering with specialized ESO providers to manage complex engineering workloads and accelerate innovation. The country's strong focus on Industry 4.0, combined with stringent automotive safety and environmental regulations, further supports outsourcing of simulation, testing, and compliance services.
   
• For instance, in June 2024, EDAG Group inaugurated its new vehicle dynamics simulation centre, the Zero Prototype Lab, in Wolfsburg, Germany. This facility represents a major leap forward in automotive development by enabling comprehensive virtual testing of vehicles, their functions, and driving dynamics before any physical prototype is built.
   

The automotive engineering services outsourcing market in U.S. is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The U.S. automotive ESO market is driven by strong innovation in electric and autonomous vehicles, supported by leading OEMs, tech startups, and regulatory initiatives. High demand for software-defined vehicles, ADAS, and connected technologies fuels outsourcing of embedded systems, testing, and digital engineering services.
   
• The presence of major EV manufacturers and growing R&D investments encourage partnerships with global ESO providers. Additionally, cost optimization and the need for faster product development cycles contribute to increased reliance on offshore and nearshore engineering talent, especially for software-heavy vehicle platforms.
   
• For instance, in January 2023, Mercedes-Benz became the world’s first automotive company to receive certification for an SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving system in the U.S. market. This milestone was achieved with the approval of the DRIVE PILOT system, which was first authorized for use in Nevada and subsequently in California, making Mercedes-Benz the only automaker with a certified SAE Level 3 system available for standard-production vehicles on U.S. public freeways.
   

The automotive engineering services outsourcing market in the China is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• China plays a pivotal role in the automotive engineering services outsourcing (ESO) market due to its rapidly evolving automotive sector, strong push for electric vehicles (EVs), and growing focus on autonomous driving technologies. The country benefits from a large pool of skilled engineers, cost-effective service delivery, and significant government support for R&D initiatives.
   
• Domestic OEMs and global players operating in China increasingly outsource engineering tasks to local service providers for faster development cycles. Additionally, the rise of intelligent mobility and connected car solutions is driving demand for software engineering and digital validation services within the region.
   
• For instance, in December 2024, ESI Group and the China Automotive Engineering Research Institute Co., Ltd. (CAERI) formed a strategic partnership to advance intelligent simulation technology for the automotive industry. Central to this collaboration is the establishment of the Intelligent Simulation Center of Excellence in Chongqing, China, which aims to accelerate the digital transformation of automotive development both within China and globally
   

The automotive engineering services outsourcing market in the UAE is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The UAE market is emerging as a niche but growing segment, driven by the country's push toward smart mobility, electric vehicles, and sustainable transport initiatives.
   
• With government-backed innovation hubs and partnerships with global automotive firms, the UAE is positioning itself as a regional R&D and engineering hub. Demand for outsourced services is rising in areas such as EV infrastructure, autonomous vehicle testing, and software development.
   
• Additionally, the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and supportive regulatory environment attract global ESO providers seeking to serve Middle Eastern and North African markets efficiently.
   

Automotive Engineering Services Outsourcing Market Share

• Top 7 companies of the automotive engineering services outsourcing industry are Capgemini, AVL, Wipro, Bertrandt, Tech Mahindra, HCL Technologies, and IAV around 9% of the market in 2024.
   
• Capgemini focuses on end-to-end digital engineering services, leveraging AI, digital twin, and cloud platforms to support connected, autonomous, and electric vehicle development. The company partners with OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers to accelerate time-to-market and optimize cost structures through global delivery models. Its strategy emphasizes smart mobility, software-defined vehicles, and integration of cybersecurity in automotive systems.
   
• AVL specializes in advanced simulation, testing, and development services for powertrains, especially for EVs and hybrid vehicles. Its strategy includes expanding capabilities in ADAS/AD validation, virtual testing, and integrating AI into engineering workflows. AVL also strengthens its role as a development partner by investing in digitalization and sustainability-focused R&D, while maintaining strong collaboration with global OEMs and suppliers.
   
• Wipro’s strategy in the automotive ESO market focuses on software-defined vehicles, embedded systems, and digital transformation services. It leverages its global engineering centers to offer cost-effective solutions in ADAS, connected vehicle platforms, and vehicle electrification. Wipro also partners with OEMs and chip manufacturers to enhance software integration and compliance, while emphasizing IP-led co-innovation and agile delivery models.
   

Automotive Engineering Services Outsourcing Market Companies

Major players operating in the automotive engineering services outsourcing industry are:

• AVL
• Bertrandt
• Capgemini
• HCL Technologies
• IAV
• L&T Technology Services
• Ricardo
• Tata Technologies
• Tech Mahindra
• Wipro
   

The current market strategy in the automotive engineering services outsourcing (ESO) market focuses on building end-to-end capabilities in digital engineering, enhancing domain expertise in EVs and autonomous vehicles, and forming long-term partnerships with OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers. Companies prioritize scalability, global delivery models, and investments in AI, simulation, and virtual validation tools to offer cost-effective, agile, and innovation-driven engineering solutions across the automotive value chain.
 

Another key strategy involves expanding nearshore and offshore engineering centers to optimize costs while maintaining quality and responsiveness. Service providers are increasingly adopting platform-based approaches, enabling modular and reusable solutions. There's also a strong emphasis on aligning with automotive regulatory standards and offering lifecycle support—from concept and design to validation and compliance—helping clients streamline product development in a highly competitive and rapidly evolving market landscape.
 

Automotive Engineering Services Outsourcing Industry News

• In October 2024, Tata Technologies and BMW Group established a 50:50 joint venture, BMW TechWorks India, aimed at advancing BMW’s software capabilities as the automotive sector moves rapidly toward digital and software-defined vehicle (SDV) solutions. The JV will develop next-generation software for SDVs, automated driving, infotainment, and digital services, as well as business IT solutions for BMW’s global operations. It will also drive digital transformation across BMW’s production network, customer journey, and sales processes.
   
• In November 2024, Hinduja Tech, a mobility-focused global engineering and R&D technology company and subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, completed the acquisition of Germany-based TECOSIM Group, a leading European engineering services provider. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Hinduja Tech’s ambition to become one of the top 10 global mobility engineering and R&D companies.
   
• In May 2025, Tata Elxsi secured a major multi-year strategic engineering deal valued at €50 million with a leading European automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM). As part of this collaboration, Tata Elxsi will establish a dedicated Global Engineering Centre to support the customer’s software platform roadmap and brand-aligned software engineering programs. The partnership will focus on software-defined vehicle (SDV) platforms, electrification, body and chassis systems, and cloud-native application development.
   
• In November 2024, Suzuki Motor Corporation and Tata Elxsi inaugurated the ‘SUZUKI-TATA ELXSI Offshore Development Center’ in Pune, India, marking a significant step in their strategic partnership to drive sustainable and future-ready automotive innovation. The center will accelerate Suzuki’s green mobility vision by focusing on lightweight design, advanced safety, eco-friendly materials, and engineering innovation. It aims to support the development of energy-efficient solutions for electric, hybrid, and alternative fuel vehicles.
   

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

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Market, By Services

• Design and engineering
• Prototyping
• Testing and validation
• Manufacturing engineering
• Others

Market, By Application

• Body and exterior
• Powertrain and drivetrain
• Infotainment and telematics
• ADAS and safety system
• Others

Market, By Vehicle

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

Market, By Location

• Onshore outsourcing
• Offshore outsourcing

Market, By End Use

• OEMs
• Tier 1 suppliers
• Tier 2 and tier 3 suppliers
• Aftermarket companies

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

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