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Report Description

Report Description

Forecast Period

2026-2030

Market Size (2024)

USD 38.2 Billion

CAGR (2025-2030)

7.1%

Fastest Growing Segment

Passenger Cars

Largest Market

China

Market Size (2030)

USD 61.2 Billion

Market Overview

The Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market was valued at USD 38.2 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 61.2 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period. The Asia Pacific automotive bearings market is poised for robust expansion between 2026 and 2030, supported by technological advancements in vehicle components and the surge in automotive manufacturing. As countries across the region experience rising urbanization and a growing middle class, the demand for passenger and commercial vehicles is accelerating, boosting the need for high-performance bearings. These components play a vital role in ensuring efficient engine and drivetrain operation, reducing friction, and enhancing fuel economy. Manufacturers are focusing on producing lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and high-durability bearings to cater to the evolving expectations of OEMs and consumers.

Market Drivers       

Surge in Global Automotive Production

The automotive industry's continued expansion is propelling the demand for components like bearings. As more vehicles roll off production lines, both in the passenger and commercial segments, the requirement for durable, high-performance bearings grows. Bearings are essential in reducing friction and wear in moving parts, making them critical to the efficiency and lifespan of engines, transmissions, wheels, and steering systems. Automakers aim to reduce weight and increase fuel efficiency, driving innovations in bearing design. As vehicle output increases, OEMs seek reliable bearing suppliers who can meet both volume and performance expectations. For instance, global vehicle sales reached 92.4 million units in 2023, marking a 10.8% increase from 2022. The strong sales growth, bolstered by an 11% rise in December, signals increasing demand and production. The continuous upward trend in global vehicle sales reflects robust recovery and heightened consumer demand across key markets, including North America, Europe, and Asia. This surge highlights the automotive industry's resilience and adaptability, indicating a promising outlook for the sector.

Electrification of Powertrains

Electric vehicles rely heavily on specialized bearings that can withstand higher rotational speeds and loads while minimizing noise and vibration. Bearings in EVs must also handle electrical currents that can cause damage in traditional designs. This transition has encouraged bearing manufacturers to develop products with advanced insulation, lubrication, and materials. The shift to electrified mobility is fueling long-term demand for innovative bearing technologies that cater to new drivetrain architectures and thermal management systems. For instance, global electric vehicle (EV) sales surged by 49% in the first half of 2023, reaching 6.2 million units. EVs now account for 16% of global light vehicle sales, with China leading at 55% of the market share. Tesla and BYD dominate global sales, with Tesla's Model Y leading, and BYD witnessing impressive sales growth. The overall market  has grown by almost 39% in 2023, reinforcing the EV sector's transformative momentum.

Increasing Vehicle Longevity

Consumers are keeping their vehicles longer, and the demand for replacement parts like bearings is growing as a result. Bearings must endure extended service intervals and harsher operating conditions, particularly in commercial and off-road applications. This durability requirement is driving innovations in heat treatment, sealing technologies, and material science to enhance bearing life and reliability. Manufacturers are responding with bearings designed for reduced maintenance and longer service lives. Innovations in manufacturing processes such as CNC machining, laser hardening, and additive manufacturing are enabling the production of bearings with tighter tolerances and superior performance characteristics. Advanced manufacturing methods contribute to improved consistency, reduced defects, and faster production cycles. Smart factories and Industry 4.0 practices are also streamlining production and quality assurance processes, ensuring that bearings meet stringent automotive industry requirements.

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Key Market Challenges

Volatility in Raw Material Prices

The bearing industry relies on high-grade steel, alloys, and ceramic materials, the costs of which are subject to global supply chain fluctuations. Price instability impacts the production cost and profitability for manufacturers, especially those locked into long-term supply agreements. Sourcing strategies and cost optimization are critical in mitigating these risks, but unpredictability in raw materials can delay production schedules and affect product availability. Advanced manufacturing processes and R&D activities in the bearings sector demand significant upfront investment. Setting up precision engineering facilities, testing labs, and automation systems requires substantial capital outlay. This creates entry barriers for smaller players and increases the financial pressure on existing manufacturers to sustain innovation while maintaining cost efficiency. The need to balance product quality, innovation, and affordability poses ongoing strategic challenges.

Stringent Regulatory Compliance

Regulations governing emissions, vehicle safety, and environmental sustainability are tightening globally. Bearings must conform to specific durability, efficiency, and material safety standards. Compliance with evolving regulations often necessitates redesigning existing product lines, retesting for certification, and investing in cleaner production technologies. These demands can increase development costs and extend time-to-market for new bearing solutions.

Key Market Trends

Shift Toward Lightweight Materials

Manufacturers are increasingly using lightweight alloys and engineered plastics in bearing production. Reducing vehicle weight is crucial for improving fuel economy and extending EV range. Bearings made from advanced composites or ceramic materials can offer comparable strength to steel while significantly reducing mass. These materials also provide better corrosion resistance and performance under high-temperature conditions, enhancing both efficiency and longevity.

Integration of Smart Bearings

Sensors embedded within bearings are enabling real-time monitoring of temperature, vibration, and load conditions. Smart bearings contribute to predictive maintenance systems, allowing vehicle systems to detect wear or performance issues before failure occurs. This innovation enhances reliability, reduces downtime, and aligns with broader trends in connected vehicle technologies. Data generated from smart bearings can also inform design improvements and maintenance strategies.

Growth of Aftermarket Demand

With longer vehicle lifespans and the rise of do-it-yourself repair culture, the aftermarket for automotive bearings is experiencing steady growth. Consumers are seeking high-quality, affordable replacement parts. This trend is prompting bearing manufacturers to offer product lines tailored to aftermarket needs, including simplified installation features and packaging. Online retail and logistics innovations are also supporting faster distribution and broader access.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

The Asia Pacific automotive bearings market is segmented into plain bearings, rolling element bearings, and ball bearings, each serving distinct roles within automotive systems. Plain bearings are typically used in applications where space constraints, cost efficiency, and smooth operation under lower load conditions are priorities. These bearings operate with sliding motion between surfaces, offering benefits such as low friction and minimal maintenance requirements. They are commonly applied in engine components, steering systems, and transmission systems, where durability and quiet operation are essential. Their relatively simple design makes them suitable for environments with variable loads and less sensitivity to misalignment. Rolling element bearings, which include cylindrical, tapered, and spherical variants, function by using rolling components between inner and outer races to minimize friction and support both radial and axial loads. These bearings are engineered to handle heavier loads and more demanding applications compared to plain bearings. They are widely integrated into wheel hubs, transmissions, and drive shafts, where their ability to support high speeds and manage dynamic stress makes them crucial to vehicle performance and safety. The load-handling capacity and durability of rolling element bearings make them suitable for commercial vehicles, heavy-duty applications, and high-performance powertrains.


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Country Insights

In 2024, China leads the Asia Pacific automotive bearings market due to its extensive automotive manufacturing base and strong supply chain infrastructure. High vehicle production across passenger, commercial, and electric vehicle segments drives consistent demand for bearings. Government policies supporting electric mobility and smart manufacturing encourage local manufacturers to upgrade their capabilities, adopting precision-engineered bearings that meet global quality standards. Innovations in materials, heat treatment, and coatings enhance bearing durability, efficiency, and fuel economy. Automation and digital manufacturing ensure consistent quality and high-volume output for OEM and aftermarket needs.

Electric vehicle growth further propels the market, as EVs require specialized bearings with superior thermal stability, noise reduction, and performance at high speeds. Custom-designed bearings for EV drivetrains and systems are increasingly produced to meet this demand. For instance, In 2023, China dominated the global electric vehicle market, responsible for 58% of the 13.7 million BEVs and PHEVs sold globally. With EV penetration rates at 22%, China led in both BEV and PHEV sales, surpassing the US and Germany. China’s influence extends to battery production, where it accounted for 53% of global battery capacity deployed, producing 59% of the total power-hours for EVs. Moreover, China exported 49.5 GWh of battery power, further solidifying its position as the largest EV exporter worldwide. With aggressive incentives and innovations, China continues to lead global EV growthRising urbanization and infrastructure expansion are boosting vehicle ownership and the need for both new and replacement bearings. Additionally, China’s efficient logistics and growing e-commerce sector strengthen the aftermarket segment, with domestic suppliers leveraging scale and agility to meet evolving market demands.

In 2024, India stands out as a fast-growing market in the Asia Pacific automotive bearings sector, driven by rising vehicle production, domestic demand, and "Make in India" policies. Increased localization, supportive government schemes like the PLI, and a surge in electric two- and three-wheelers are fueling demand for compact, durable bearings. Investments in advanced manufacturing and a skilled workforce are helping India scale up production and meet evolving automotive needs. For instance, India's automotive industry saw significant growth in the 2022-23 fiscal year, with total vehicle production rising to 25.93 million units, up from 23.04 million the previous year. Domestic sales of passenger vehicles surged by 27%, with utility vehicles seeing a notable increase of 34%. Sales in the commercial vehicle segment grew by 34%, driven by a 49% rise in medium and heavy commercial vehicle sales. Meanwhile, exports showed mixed trends, with passenger vehicle exports rising but exports of three-wheelers and two-wheelers declining.

Japan remains a key market known for high-precision, energy-efficient bearings used in hybrid and electric vehicles. Home to major OEMs and bearing manufacturers, Japan leads in innovation across ceramic, sealed, and low-friction technologies. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and advanced mobility solutions, the country continues to influence global standards in bearing design and performance.

Recent Developments

  • In October 2024, SKF announced the sale of its non-core aerospace business in Hanover, Pennsylvania, to Carco PRP for approximately USD 216 million. This move is part of SKF's strategy to focus more on its core automotive and industrial segments. Additionally, SKF revealed plans to spin off its automotive business into a separate entity, aiming for a listing in Stockholm by the first half of 2026. This decision is intended to enhance operational focus and profitability for both divisions.
  • In March 2024, NTN Corporation introduced a new bearing designed for electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). The "Bearing with Insulating Coating" features an insulating layer that prevents electrical pitting, a common issue in EV drivetrains. This innovation allows the bearing to handle high-voltage environments, with an insulating performance of over 100V, making it suitable for modern EV applications.
  • In September 2023, NBC Bearings began supplying specialized low-noise bearings to electric vehicle manufacturers in India. These bearings are tailored for high-speed applications in EV drivetrains, including motor and wheel hubs. The move aligns with the growing demand for electric two- and three-wheelers in India, with NBC Bearings securing contracts with companies like Mahindra Last Mile Mobility, Altigreen, and Ather Energy. 
  • In 2024, SKF and voestalpine Wire Technology unveiled a prototype spherical roller bearing made from hydrogen direct reduced iron (DRI)-based steel, marking a significant advancement in sustainable manufacturing. Developed at SKF’s factory in Steyr, Austria, the bearing showcases how hydrogen-based steelmaking can reduce carbon emissions in high-demand industries like marine, mining, and construction

Key Market Players

  • SKF AB
  • NSK Ltd.
  • NTN Corporation
  • Schaeffler AG
  • JTEKT Corporation
  • Timken Company
  • MinebeaMitsumi Inc.
  • RBC Bearings Incorporated
  • C&U Group Co., Ltd.
  • Iljin Global Co., Ltd.

By Vehicle Type

By Product Type

By Country

  • Passenger Cars
  • Commercial Vehicles
  • Plain Bearings
  • Rolling Element Bearings
  • Ball Bearings
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Vietnam
  • Indonesia
  • Australia
  • Rest Of Asia Pacific

 

Report Scope:          

In this report, the Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

·         Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market, By Vehicle Type:

o    Passenger Cars

o    Commercial Vehicles

·         Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market, By Product Type:

o    Plain Bearings

o    Rolling Element Bearings

o    Ball Bearings

·         Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market, By Country:

o    China

o    India

o    Japan

o    Vietnam

o    Indonesia

o    Australia

o    Rest Of Asia Pacific

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market.

Available Customizations:

Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research, offers customizations according to the company’s specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

  • Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

The Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]

Table of content

Table of content

1.    Introduction

1.1.  Research Tenure Considered

1.2.  Market Definition

1.3.  Scope of the Market

1.4.  Markets Covered

1.5.  Years Considered for Study

1.6.  Key Market Segmentations

2.     Research Methodology

2.1.  Objective of the Study

2.2.  Baseline Methodology

2.3.  Key Industry Partners

2.4.  Major Association and Secondary Sources

2.5.  Forecasting Methodology

2.6.  Data Triangulation & Validation

2.7.  Assumptions and Limitations

3.     Executive Summary

3.1.  Overview of the Market

3.2.  Overview of Key Market Segmentations

3.3.  Overview of Key Country

4.    Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market Outlook

4.1.  Market Size & Forecast

4.1.1.    By Value

4.2.  Market Share & Forecast

4.2.1.    By Vehicle Type Market Share Analysis (Passenger Cars and Commercial Vehicles)

4.2.2.    By Product Type Market Share Analysis (Plain Bearings, Rolling Element Bearings, and Ball Bearings)

4.2.3.    By Country Market Share Analysis

4.2.4.    By Top 5 Companies Market Share Analysis, Others (2024)

4.3.  Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market Mapping & Opportunity Assessment

5.    China Automotive Bearings Market Outlook

5.1.  Market Size & Forecast

5.1.1.    By Value

5.2.  Market Share & Forecast

5.2.1.    By Vehicle Type Market Share Analysis

5.2.2.    By Product Type Market Share Analysis

6.    India Automotive Bearings Market Outlook

6.1.  Market Size & Forecast

6.1.1.    By Value

6.2.  Market Share & Forecast

6.2.1.    By Vehicle Type Market Share Analysis

6.2.2.    By Product Type Market Share Analysis

7.    Japan Automotive Bearings Market Outlook

7.1.  Market Size & Forecast

7.1.1.    By Value

7.2.  Market Share & Forecast

7.2.1.    By Vehicle Type Market Share Analysis

7.2.2.    By Product Type Market Share Analysis

8.    Vietnam Automotive Bearings Market Outlook

8.1.  Market Size & Forecast

8.1.1.    By Value

8.2.  Market Share & Forecast

8.2.1.    By Vehicle Type Market Share Analysis

8.2.2.    By Product Type Market Share Analysis

9.    Indonesia Automotive Bearings Market Outlook

9.1.  Market Size & Forecast

9.1.1.    By Value

9.2.  Market Share & Forecast

9.2.1.    By Vehicle Type Market Share Analysis

9.2.2.    By Product Type Market Share Analysis

10.  Australia Automotive Bearings Market Outlook

10.1.             Market Size & Forecast

10.1.1. By Value

10.2.             Market Share & Forecast

10.2.1. By Vehicle Type Market Share Analysis

10.2.2. By Product Type Market Share Analysis

11.  Rest Of Asia Pacific Automotive Bearings Market Outlook

11.1.             Market Size & Forecast

11.1.1. By Value

11.2.             Market Share & Forecast

11.2.1. By Vehicle Type Market Share Analysis

11.2.2. By Product Type Market Share Analysis

12.  Market Dynamics

12.1.  Drivers

12.2.  Challenges

13. Key Market Disruptions 

13.1.  Conflicts

13.2.  Pandemics

13.3.  Trade Barriers

14. Market Trends & Developments

15. Policy and Regulatory Landscape

16. Porters Five Forces Analysis

17. Competitive Landscape

17.1.             Company Profiles

17.1.1.    SKF AB

17.1.1.1.     Company Details

17.1.1.2.     Products

17.1.1.3.     Financials (As Per Availability)

17.1.1.4.     Key Market Focus & Geographical Presence

17.1.1.5.     Recent Developments

17.1.1.6.     Key Management Personnel

17.1.2. NSK Ltd.

17.1.3. NTN Corporation

17.1.4. Schaeffler AG

17.1.5. JTEKT Corporation

17.1.6. Timken Company

17.1.7. MinebeaMitsumi Inc.

17.1.8. RBC Bearings Incorporated

17.1.9. C&U Group Co., Ltd.

17.1.10. Iljin Global Co., Ltd.

18.  Strategic Recommendations

19.  About Us & Disclaimer

Figures and Tables

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

The market size of the Asia-Pacific Automotive Bearings Market was estimated to be USD 38.2 Billion in 2024.

Major drivers for the Asia-Pacific automotive bearings market include increasing vehicle production, rising demand for fuel-efficient and electric vehicles, advancements in bearing technology, and government initiatives promoting clean transportation solutions.

Shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles, integration of smart bearings, advancements in manufacturing technologies, focus on sustainability, and growth of the aftermarket segment are key trends in the Asia-Pacific automotive bearings market.

China is the dominant country in the Asia-Pacific automotive bearings market, driven by its large automotive manufacturing base, increasing vehicle production, and strong demand for electric vehicles and automotive components.

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