Automotive manufacturers are increasingly exploring different seat cushion materials that offer enhanced durability and user comfort. Furthermore, with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving technology, and the increasing demand for customization and luxury features, automotive seating has become a hotbed for innovation and technological advancements. Asia, being the automotive hub globally, has been at the forefront of innovation in automotive seating. Against this backdrop, the automotive seating market in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) is forecast to record a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.4% over 2024–29, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
GlobalData’s latest report, “Global Sector Overview & Forecast: Automotive Seating Q3 2024” reveals that the automotive seating market is estimated to reach 149.7 million units in 2024 and 168.3 million units by 2029 in the APAC region.
Madhuchhanda Palit, Automotive Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Innovation in the automotive seating sector is driven by concerns over emissions. Making seating lightweight is one of the major innovation areas that manufacturers are focusing on, as reducing vehicle weight helps in cutting emissions. Different materials of seat cushions, starting from sprung seats to rubberized hair and latex foam, are being explored. Currently, polyurethane foams are one of the most used cushion materials for their lightweight nature and also due to their durability, comfort level, and lower cost of production.”
Apart from that, integrating recyclable materials for seats is also one of the major areas manufacturers are focusing on driven by sustainability concerns. For instance, Renault is integrating Ecorium, a premium trimming material made from recycled plastic, for seats designed as an alternative to animal leather in certain models of the new E-Tech. Additionally, several biomaterials are being explored and used for making automotive seats, such as flax, hemp, jute, kenaf, soybean, and eucalyptus.
Moreover, the integration of smart technologies in automotive seating has also been a major trend in recent years. Companies are developing seats with built-in sensors, heating and cooling systems, massage functions, and even biometric monitoring capabilities. These smart seats not only enhance the overall driving experience but also contribute to passenger well-being and safety.
Palit concludes: “Overall, the future of automotive seating in APAC looks promising, with a strong focus on comfort, safety, and technological advancements. As automotive companies continue to push the boundaries of innovation, more exciting developments are expected to take place in automotive seating that will revolutionize the driving experience for passengers in the region and beyond.”
