PUBLISHER: AnalystView Market Insights | PRODUCT CODE: 1808948
PUBLISHER: AnalystView Market Insights | PRODUCT CODE: 1808948
Automotive Tow Bars Market size was valued at US$ 4,320.29 Million in 2024, expanding at a CAGR of 4.02% from 2025 to 2032.
The Automotive Tow Bars Market refers to the industry involved in manufacturing and selling towing devices installed on vehicles to pull trailers, caravans, or other loads. Increasing recreational travel, rising utility trailer sales, and growth in vehicle customization have fueled tow bar installations globally. However, compatibility issues with modern vehicle sensors and crash protection systems pose integration challenges. Nearly 40% of SUV owners in Europe now opt for detachable or retractable tow bars. Advancements in lightweight materials and OEM-level factory-fitted options are creating new opportunities for both passenger and light commercial vehicle segments. The shift toward electric vehicles is also prompting innovation in tow bar designs to reduce weight and enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, growing outdoor leisure trends and DIY utility transport are supporting steady aftermarket demand worldwide.
Automotive Tow Bars Market- Market Dynamics
Growing Recreational Travel and Vehicle Utility Boost Automotive Tow Bar Adoption
The surge in recreational vehicle (RV) travel and utility trailer usage is significantly influencing the automotive tow bars market. According to the European Caravan Federation, over 210,000 new caravans and motorhomes were registered across Europe in 2024, reflecting a strong demand for towing accessories. Similarly, the U.S. National Association of Trailer Manufacturers reported a steady rise in small trailer shipments, particularly for outdoor and commercial uses. Automakers like Ford and Volkswagen now offer factory-fitted tow bar options for models such as the Ranger and Tiguan, catering to customers seeking integrated towing solutions. This trend is reinforced by rising consumer preference for detachable and electronically deployable systems for convenience and aesthetics. As outdoor recreation grows in popularity post-pandemic, even mid-size vehicle owners are investing in tow bars for bikes, boats, and compact trailers. This shift is encouraging suppliers to expand product lines tailored to versatile, urban-friendly vehicles.
Automotive Tow Bars Market- Key Insights
As per the analysis shared by our research analyst, the global market is estimated to grow annually at a CAGR of around 4.02% over the forecast period (2025-2032)
Based on Tow Bar Type segmentation, Detachable tow bars were predicted to show maximum market share in the year 2024
Based on Material Type segmentation, Steel tow bars were the leading Material Type in 2024
Based on Sales Channel segmentation, OEM-fitted Tow Bars were the leading Sales Channel in 2024
Based on Vehicle Type segmentation, SUVs were the leading Vehicle Type in 2024
Based on Application segmentation, Recreational Towing was the leading Application in 2024
On the basis of region, Europe was the leading revenue generator in 2024
The Global Automotive Tow Bars Market is segmented on the basis of Tow Bar Type, Material Type, Sales Channel, Vehicle Type, Application, and Region.
The market is divided into five categories based on Tow Bar Type: Fixed Tow Bars, Detachable Tow Bars, Retractable / Foldable Tow Bars, Swivel Tow Bars, and Heavy-Duty Tow Bars. Detachable tow bars lead due to their blend of convenience and aesthetics, followed by fixed tow bars for affordability and durability. Retractable and swivel tow bars are gaining popularity in premium vehicles, while heavy-duty tow bars serve specialized commercial applications.
The market is divided into three categories based on Material Type: Steel Tow Bars, Aluminium Tow Bars, and Composite / Polymer-based Tow Bars. Steel tow bars dominate the market for their strength and cost-effectiveness, especially in heavy-duty applications. Aluminium tow bars are increasingly preferred in passenger vehicles for their lightweight nature, while composite tow bars remain niche, used in advanced or electric vehicle designs.
Automotive Tow Bars Market- Geographical Insights
Europe leads the automotive tow bars market, supported by high adoption of caravanning culture and government regulations favoring trailer use. The region's dominance is also linked to major OEMs offering factory-fitted tow bars, especially in Germany, the UK, and France. In North America, demand is growing due to increased SUV and pickup sales, along with the popularity of recreational towing. Curt Group, a leading U.S.-based manufacturer, expanded its presence by acquiring Luverne Truck Equipment and UWS to broaden its towing solutions portfolio. In Asia-Pacific, rising vehicle ownership in China and Australia is fostering market growth, with manufacturers like Hayman Reese forming distribution alliances to expand regional access. Collaborations between OEMs and aftermarket suppliers are further driving innovation and adoption across urban and rural settings, especially in regions with growing tourism and commercial logistics needs. Additionally, government incentives for domestic travel and modular vehicle design are amplifying demand in emerging markets.
The automotive tow bars market is moderately consolidated, with key players focusing on acquisitions and collaborations to enhance product portfolios and distribution reach. Brink Group, a leading manufacturer based in the Netherlands, partnered with major OEMs like BMW and Volvo to supply factory-fitted tow bar systems. In the U.S., Horizon Global Corporation, parent company of brands like Draw-Tite and Reese, previously acquired Westfalia-Automotive to strengthen its European foothold and expand its product range across fixed, detachable, and retractable tow bars. Curt Manufacturing, now part of Lippert Components Inc., has integrated its offerings with vehicle-specific towing solutions, enhancing compatibility with SUVs and pickups. Hayman Reese continues to dominate the Australian market through dealer networks and alignment with automotive OEMs. These strategic moves enable manufacturers to stay competitive through innovation, regulatory compliance, and the growing demand for custom-fit, lightweight, and electronically controlled tow bar systems.
In April 2025, Tesla launched the official Model 3 Tow Package in Australia and New Zealand, offering a high-strength steel tow bar with a 2" hitch and 7-pin connector capable of towing up to 1,000 kg, available through service centers via the Tesla app.
In September 2024, Thule launched three new products in South Africa: the Allax dog crate, Motion 3 rooftop box, and Outset tow bar tent, each earning global design awards for innovation, safety features, and vehicle-mounted convenience for outdoor and travel use.