PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887146
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887146
The global internal combustion engine (ICE) market continues to remain a cornerstone of global mobility and industrial applications despite the strong rise of electric vehicles. As per the latest analysis, the market was valued at USD 280.09 billion in 2024, is projected to rise to USD 293.32 billion in 2025, and is forecast to reach USD 499.94 billion by 2032, recording steady growth driven by demand for fuel-powered vehicles, industrial machinery, and expanding transportation networks. In 2024, Asia Pacific led the market with an impressive 49.75% share, powered by strong automotive production and increasing consumption of heavy-duty engines.
Internal combustion engines remain widely used across on-road transportation, aviation, shipping, agriculture, construction, and industrial power generation. These engines operate by burning hydrocarbon fuels such as gasoline, diesel, natural gas, and ethanol inside a confined chamber, generating high-pressure gases to power mechanical systems. Major manufacturers like Cummins Inc. have expanded their portfolio to include natural gas, hydrogen, and G-Drive engines, highlighting the industry's transition toward diversified and cleaner ICE technologies.
Market Drivers
Growing technological advancement continues to be a key driver of ICE demand. Innovations including turbocharging, variable valve timing, lightweight engine blocks, and advanced thermal management systems have significantly improved engine durability, fuel economy, and performance. Automotive manufacturers are focusing heavily on R&D to enhance engine efficiency and reduce emissions to comply with evolving regulations. These innovations are making ICE vehicles more competitive even as EVs gain traction.
A second major driver is the global increase in vehicle sales, especially in emerging regions. Although the automotive sector experienced supply chain disruptions during the pandemic, it has since rebounded. Nations such as China have accelerated exports of low-cost ICE vehicles to Mexico and Europe, strengthening global ICE demand. Rising population, expanding urbanization, and increased road infrastructure continue to fuel the market's long-term growth.
Market Restraints
One significant challenge is the growing imposition of strict emission regulations worldwide. Governments in Europe, the U.S., and Asia are implementing tighter pollution norms, pushing consumers toward hybrids and electric vehicles. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that nearly 14 million electric cars were registered worldwide in 2023, bringing the global EV fleet to 40 million. As EV adoption accelerates, ICE manufacturers face rising compliance costs and competitive pressure.
Market Opportunities
Despite constraints, rising disposable incomes and rapid urbanization present major opportunities for ICE market expansion, particularly in developing countries. Increased purchasing power in Asia, Africa, and Latin America is driving demand for affordable two-wheelers, commercial vehicles, and passenger cars-segments still predominantly powered by ICE engines. Expansions in road infrastructure, logistics, and construction further boost demand for industrial and heavy-duty engines.
Market Trends
The market is witnessing a strong pivot toward fuel-efficient performance. Consumer demand for economical fuel consumption and government pressure to reduce carbon emissions are accelerating the development of cleaner, high-performance fuels. In 2023, HPCL introduced poWer95, a premium petrol designed to improve engine output and vehicle performance, reflecting the shift toward advanced fuel technologies supporting ICE enhancements.
Segmental Highlights
By Fuel Type
The gasoline segment dominated the market in 2024 with a 65% share, driven by global availability and high fuel efficiency. Goldman Sachs projects gasoline demand to peak between 2030-2035 due to slower-than-expected EV adoption. Natural gas emerges as the fastest-growing segment due to cost-effectiveness and lower emissions.
By Application
The automotive segment leads the market, expected to maintain a 52% share in 2025, driven by demand across bikes, commercial vehicles, and heavy-duty vehicles. The marine segment is expanding swiftly, aided by the introduction of ammonia as a zero-carbon marine fuel. Industrial machinery and equipment also represent fast-growing application categories.
Regional Analysis
Asia Pacific - USD 139.36 Billion (2024)
Asia Pacific dominates the global ICE market, driven by growing automotive manufacturing in China and India. China's adoption of hydrogen and synthetic fuels is reshaping the region's technological landscape. India and Japan are also witnessing steady growth due to strong automotive and industrial activity.
North America
Projected to reach USD 52.64 billion in 2025, North America remains a major market supported by strong automobile and aerospace industries. Innovations such as hybrid-electric aircraft further accelerate demand.
Europe
Expected to reach USD 61.40 billion in 2025, Europe is the fastest-growing region due to demand for industrial machinery and fuel-powered equipment. Germany, France, and the U.K. show strong adoption of advanced ICE technologies.
Conclusion
As the global market grows from USD 280.09 billion in 2024 to USD 293.32 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 499.94 billion by 2032, the internal combustion engine industry remains vital to global infrastructure, transportation, and industrial activities. While EV adoption presents competition, technological innovation, rising vehicle demand, and emerging clean-fuel engines ensure sustained ICE relevance through 2032.
Segmentation By Fuel
By Application
By Region