The automotive industry is at a turning point that is set to dramatically change the aftermarket in the coming decades. With the rapid spread of electric vehicles, the introduction of stricter environmental regulations, and the increasing adoption of advanced digital technologies, the aftermarket is set to face new challenges and opportunities. Let's take a closer look at the key factors that will change the face of this industry by 2035.
Transition to Electric Vehicles: A New Market for the Aftermarket
By 2035, the European Union and many other countries will have banned the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, pushing for the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and, to a lesser extent, hydrogen-powered vehicles. This transition to clean technologies is already starting to impact the aftermarket.
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Simplified but Specialized Maintenance : Electric vehicles require less maintenance than internal combustion engines, since they do not have components such as the gearbox, clutch and exhaust system. However, this does not mean that workshops will no longer have work. On the contrary, mechanics will have to adapt to new types of interventions, especially on the electronic part, and train to work safely on high-voltage batteries.
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Focus on Battery Maintenance : Batteries are one of the key components of electric vehicles, and their health significantly impacts the performance and residual value of the vehicle. In 2035, demand for battery maintenance, repair and replacement services, as well as reconditioning and recycling solutions is expected to grow. Battery reconditioning, for example, could become an important and profitable segment for companies in the sector.
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Changing Demand for Components : Components such as mufflers, spark plugs, and oil filters, typical of combustion vehicles, will see a drastic reduction in demand. On the other hand, there will be increased interest in advanced diagnostic software, electronic components, tires specific to electric vehicles, and battery cooling systems.
Technological Evolution and Digitalization: Predictive Diagnostics and Over-the-Air Updates
As technology evolves, cars are becoming connected devices, similar to “computers on wheels”, with increasingly advanced and interconnected systems. This digitalization offers new possibilities for the aftermarket sector.
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Predictive Diagnostics and Proactive Maintenance : Thanks to telematics and data collected by sensors, workshops will be able to anticipate technical problems before they arise. Artificial intelligence and predictive analytics will allow monitoring the condition of key components and alerting the car owner or workshop when it is time to intervene. This proactive approach will lead to a significant increase in maintenance efficiency and reduce the risk of sudden breakdowns.
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Over-the-Air (OTA) Software Updates : Modern vehicles are increasingly dependent on software to operate critical systems such as ABS, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and even battery performance management. OTA updates will make it possible to fix issues or improve functionality without having to physically visit a shop. Aftermarket companies could leverage this technology to offer customized update packages, new digital services, and bespoke enhancements.
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ADAS Maintenance : With the growing number of vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, such as lane control and emergency braking, the aftermarket will have the opportunity to expand into the maintenance and calibration of these systems. However, this will require specialized equipment and advanced technical expertise.
Environmental Regulations and Sustainability: Recycling and Circular Economy
The pressure towards sustainability is set to intensify in the coming years, also influencing the aftermarket sector. More stringent environmental regulations and greater consumer awareness of environmental issues will drive companies towards more sustainable models.
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Component Recycling and Remanufacturing : As the demand for sustainability increases, the concept of a circular economy will become more widespread, pushing companies to develop solutions for component recycling and reuse of reconditioned parts. For example, used electric vehicle batteries could be remanufactured or reused in energy storage systems.
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Reducing Environmental Impact in Processes : Maintenance and production processes for aftermarket components will also have to adapt to more stringent ecological standards. Workshops and component suppliers will be required to optimize energy efficiency, reduce emissions and responsibly manage waste. Sustainability could become an added value to build customer loyalty and improve brand image.
Workshop Adaptation and Staff Training: Towards a Workshop 4.0
The transition to electric and digital mobility will require significant investments in equipment, software and staff training.
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Continuing Education and Specialization : By 2035, aftermarket technicians will need to have advanced skills in electronics and IT. Workshops will need to train their staff on new technologies, including specific safety procedures for working on high-voltage components such as electric vehicle batteries.
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Investments in Specific Equipment : Traditional workshops will need to equip themselves with advanced diagnostic tools, ADAS calibration systems, and specific equipment for battery management. Investing in an adequate infrastructure will allow workshops to remain competitive and respond to new market needs.
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Collaboration with Manufacturers : To stay up to date with the latest innovations, workshops will need to establish collaborations with manufacturers and suppliers of components and software. This will allow them to access up-to-date technical information, ensuring effective maintenance in line with industry standards.
A Future of Opportunity for the Automotive Aftermarket
The automotive aftermarket in 2035 will be fundamentally different from today. While electrification and digitalization will require an adaptation of business models and technical expertise, these transformations will also offer new opportunities. Workshops and suppliers that invest in sustainability, digitalization and continuous training will be able to benefit from an evolving market and respond effectively to new consumer needs. In this context, the automotive aftermarket has the opportunity to transform itself, becoming more innovative, sustainable and oriented towards digital services, consolidating its key role in the automotive ecosystem of the future.
