A recent report from Navigant Research analyzes the emerging global market for technologies that improve fuel economy, including global market forecasts for light-duty vehicle sales, segmented by powertrain, region, and number of cylinders, through 2025.

Even as sales of plug-in electric and hybrid vehicles are growing steadily, automakers are busy introducing innovations that help conventional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles be more fuel-efficient. Lighter, more aerodynamically efficient bodies combined with powertrain efficiency upgrades provide attractive and economic alternatives for drivers who are not ready to make the transition to fully electric vehicles. According to a recent report from Navigant Research, 59 percent of light-duty vehicles purchased in 2025 are expected to feature turbochargers. 

“Gasoline is anticipated to remain the dominant fuel in the coming years, albeit in vehicles that employ a range of fuel-efficiency technologies, including smaller engines, stop-start technology, and turbocharging,” says David Alexander, senior research analyst with Navigant Research. “A range of incremental changes—such as lighter materials, cylinder deactivation, direct injection, and transmissions with eight or more speed ratios and high-efficiency internal components—will also play important roles in tomorrow’s higher-miles-per-gallon cars and trucks.”

Electrification of ancillary systems will increase as stop-start systems get more powerful, according to the report. When combined with electric power steering and brakes, vehicles that can permit coasting with the engine off can potentially achieve fuel economy levels close to hybrid electric vehicles at a lower cost premium. More powerful starter-alternators can also be used to assist the engine to improve drivability.

The report, “Automotive Fuel Efficiency Technologies,” analyzes the emerging global market for technologies that improve fuel economy. It examines the consumer demand and regulatory background related to engine technology and lightweight materials for increasing fuel efficiency in vehicles. Global market forecasts for LDV sales, segmented by powertrain, region, and number of cylinders, extend through 2025. Additional forecasts by region are provided for the volumes and associated revenue of key fuel efficiency systems and materials. The report also examines the approach of the leading vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, and industry players and evaluates how the market for lighter and more efficient vehicle technologies will evolve. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the Navigant Research website.

About Navigant Research

Navigant Research, the dedicated research arm of Navigant, provides market research and benchmarking services for rapidly changing and often highly regulated industries. In the energy sector, Navigant Research focuses on in-depth analysis and reporting about global clean technology markets. The team’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Smart Energy, Smart Utilities, Smart Transportation, and Smart Buildings sectors.