AUTOMOTIVE WASHER SYSTEM MARKET ANALYSIS

Market Challenges And Opportunities

Market Dynamics- Restraints

1. Additional cost of new wiper technologies is expected to restrain growth of the global automotive washer system market during the forecast period

The rise of the latest wiper blade and windshield cleaning technologies has led to higher cost of the final products, which in turn, is expected to hinder the market growth. High market penetration of relatively low-cost wiper and washer system alternatives restricts demand for wiper deicer, nozzle integrated wipers and heated nozzle washer systems. Major automakers such as General Motors, Tesla, and Subaru offer wiper-deicer or heated nozzle systems to customers through exclusive packages for winter/cold climate. Although these systems deliver optimal performance, their cost is relatively high. Thus, these factors are expected to hamper the market growth in the near future.

2. Periodic replacement required for windshield washer system is expected to hinder the global automotive washer system market growth over the forecast period

Since the windshield washer system is frequently used, it requires timely maintenance and replacement. If the use of a windshield washer system is extensively used, it necessitates regular replacement, which is fairly expensive. Moreover, this system has a relatively shorter lifespan as compared to other automotive parts. Hence, the cost of periodic replacement of windshield washer system is expected to hinder the market growth over the forecast period.

Market Opportunities

1. Establishment of production plants in emerging automotive markets can provide major business opportunities

Automotive manufacturers are establishing new production plants or shifting existing plants in emerging automotive markets, in order to capitalize on growing demand for aftermarket and OEM products. For instance, in September 2016, Audi AG, Germany-based leading automobile manufacturer, started production of Audi Q5 in San Jose Chiapa, Mexico. In April 2016, Ford Motor Company announced plans to invest US$ 1.6 Bn in a new plant in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Furthermore, in 2015, BMW AG, Germany-based leading automobile manufacturer, announced the establishment of a new plant in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. The plant is expected to start production in 2019.

2. Withdrawal of vehicles due to faulty washer system is expected to present major growth opportunities

There have been many instances of component failure, due to operational or design limitations, thereby leading vehicles to recall. In order to reduce issues related to the component operation, design and compatibility, OEMs collaborate with different washer system manufacturers or third-party washer component suppliers to provide safe and efficient products. For instance, in October 2016, Subaru of America, Inc. – the automobile manufacturing division of Japan-based transportation conglomerate Fuji Heavy Industries – recalled its 2010–2014 Legacy and Outback models owing to heating issue in the wiper motor.