Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Automotive Constant Velocity Joints
The automobile con-stant velocity-joint market is in the midst of a revolution, a revolution that is caused by the rapid spread of technology, the change in legislation, and the increased demands of consumers for performance and for the environment. The competition for the leading position is hard, and the leading players, such as automobile manufacturers, IT suppliers and inno-vative AI start-ups, are putting the new possibilities of AI, IoT and automation to use in the products and in the processes. The focus is on green mobility and biometrics, which meet the stringent environment legislation and the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions from the consumers. IT suppliers are establishing themselves as critical enablers of smart production processes. Towards 2024–2025, new growth opportunities are emerging in particular in Asia-Pacific and North America. Strategic deployment of the latest technological developments will change the competitive dynamics and market positions.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
The suppliers provide a complete solution for all the vehicle joints, integrating various components and services.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Dana |
Strong engineering capabilities |
Drivetrain systems |
North America, Europe, Asia |
| BorgWarner |
Innovative powertrain solutions |
Powertrain components |
Global |
| ZF Friedrichshafen |
Advanced vehicle technology |
Chassis and driveline systems |
Global |
| GKN |
Expertise in driveline technology |
Driveline systems |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These companies offer products for the joint market and focus on niche technology and innovation.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Delphi |
Cutting-edge automotive technology |
Electrical and electronic systems |
Global |
| JTEKT |
Precision engineering |
Steering and driveline components |
Asia, Europe, North America |
| Schaeffler |
High-performance components |
Bearings and transmission systems |
Global |
| NTN |
Innovative bearing solutions |
Bearings and constant velocity joints |
Global |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
They provide the necessary equipment and apparatus for the production and maintenance of automobile joints.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Hutchinson |
Expertise in vibration control |
Sealing and vibration control systems |
Global |
| American Axle |
Robust manufacturing capabilities |
Drivetrain and axle systems |
North America, Europe |
| Trelleborg |
Advanced polymer technology |
Sealing solutions |
Global |
| Mitsubishi |
Diverse automotive solutions |
Automotive components |
Asia, Global |
| Aisin Seiki |
Comprehensive automotive parts |
Automotive systems and components |
Asia, Global |
| Wanxiang |
Strong supply chain network |
Automotive parts and components |
Asia, Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- GKN Automotive (UK): a specialist in drive-train technology and lightweight materials, GKN has just won a contract with a major EV manufacturer for its next-generation CV joints. The company is taking on the established players by focusing on efficiency and the environment.
- The American Neapco produces a variety of ball joints and drive shafts. Its production capacity has been recently increased to meet the rising demand in North America. It complements the established suppliers by offering cost-effective alternatives.
- JTEKT CO., LTD. (Japan): JTEKT is a leading manufacturer of ball joints for automobiles.
- AAM, USA, is a specialist in the production of high-performance CV joints for off-road and heavy-duty applications. It has just won a contract from a leading truck manufacturer. It is taking on the established suppliers by focusing on niche markets with highly specialized products.
- Schaeffler, Germany: With its new range of products for energy-efficient drive systems, the company is offering a new energy-efficient drive that complements the established products of established suppliers.
Regional Trends: The constant velocity joint market in 2023 will be characterized by a significant trend towards lightweighting and the adoption of electric vehicle-friendly materials. North America and Europe will see increased investment in R&D for constant velocity joints, while Asia-Pacific will increase its production capacity to meet global demand. This will be accompanied by increased specialization in technology, with new entrants focusing on lightweighting and the use of advanced materials and designs to differentiate themselves from established players.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- GKN and Toyota Tsusho are now working together on a new drivetrain technology that will further improve the performance of electric vehicles and further enhance their competitive position in the burgeoning EV market.
- In order to increase its market share, Dana acquired the assets of the cv-joint division of a leading competitor.
- ZF Friedrichshafen AG and Volkswagen AG have entered into a cooperation to develop the next generation of constant velocity joints that will improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Product Innovation |
GKN Automotive, Dana Incorporated |
GKN is introducing new lightweight materials for the CV joints of its products. This improves performance and fuel economy. Dana Incorporated focuses on a modular design that makes it easier to integrate into various platforms. This is shown by its recent partnership with the manufacturers of electric vehicles. |
| Manufacturing Efficiency |
ZF Friedrichshafen, Aisin Seiki |
The process of manufacture is controlled by the methods of the fourth industrial revolution, which are used by ZF Friedrichshafen. Aisin Seiki has adopted the principles of lean production and has shortened its delivery times. |
| Sustainability Initiatives |
Valeo, Bosch |
By the year 2025, Valeo has made a commitment to producing only on the basis of electricity from renewable sources. The market has welcomed the range of “green” joints developed by Bosch, which are made of recycled material. |
| Technological Integration |
Continental AG, Schaeffler Group |
Continental AG has incorporated smart sensors into its CV joints to monitor the performance of the vehicle in real time and thus to enhance safety and maintenance. The Schaeffler Group has developed digital twin technology for predicting wear and thus for improving vehicle availability. |
| Customer Support and Service |
JTEKT Corporation, Trelleborg |
The cv joints of JTEKT are the most widely used in Japan. As a result of JTEKT’s training and education programs, the CV joints of JTEKT are installed in a wide variety of vehicles, and they are maintained in accordance with the needs of the customers. The cv joints of JTEKT are maintained at a high level. JTEKT has a strong after-sales service system, and it is also equipped with a telephone help desk and an Internet portal site. |
Conclusion: Navigating the CV Joint Market Landscape
The constant-velocity joint market in 2023 is characterised by strong competition and significant fragmentation, with the competition being dominated by both the established and new entrants. There is a clear trend towards a focus on the innovation centres in Asia-Pacific, where the manufacturers are increasingly using advanced technology. The established companies are focusing on automation and on green and sustainable solutions, while the new entrants are positioning themselves by using intelligent solutions and flexible manufacturing processes. As the market evolves, the key to success will be in the development of the artificial intelligence, automation and green and flexible solutions.
