Automotive Catalytic Converter Market - Forecasts from 2024 to 2029

The automotive catalytic converter market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.45% during the forecast period.

A catalytic converter is a crucial component utilized in the mitigation of emissions from internal combustion engines, commonly found in most contemporary automobiles and vehicles. It serves as a vital element within a vehicle's exhaust system, effectively diminishing the volume of harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere by transforming noxious combustion gases into less detrimental substances, including water vapor and carbon dioxide. Typically employing platinum, rhodium, or palladium, the catalyst nested within the converter aids in the conversion process. The flow of gases occurs within the ceramic honeycomb structure, embedded in the catalytic converter's housing, which is equipped with specific metals, each assigned distinct functions pivotal in curbing emissions. In the operational procedure, the catalytic converter employs dual pipes and the catalyst to render the gases harmless before their expulsion. The rapid heating of the converter, facilitated by its exposure to exceedingly hot exhaust gases, enables it to effectively minimize unwanted emissions during the engine's warm-up phase. Consequently, the catalytic converter assumes a critical role in the exhaust system, warranting inspection during a smog check. Nevertheless, instances of catalytic converter theft have surged in prevalence, attributed to the high recycling value of the rare metals it contains. As a safeguard against such thefts, authorized auto shops can undertake the installation of protective measures like plates, shields, clamps, cages, straps, and other devices to secure the catalytic converter.

Introduction:

The automotive catalytic converter market is not only expanding rapidly but is intricately intertwined with the automotive industry at large. This dynamic market primarily encompasses the utilization of devices that are specifically engineered to curtail the emission of pollutants from vehicles. Functioning as an indispensable emissions control component, the catalytic converter assumes a pivotal role in the scrutiny process during a Smog Check. It is noteworthy that this market is notably diversified, with its classification based on the particular fuel type employed in the vehicle, giving rise to categories such as gasoline catalytic converters and diesel catalytic converters. Moreover, geographical segmentation, vehicle type differentiation, and the distinction between aftermarket and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) sales serve as additional defining features of this multifaceted market. Owing to escalating global apprehensions concerning air pollution, the market is anticipated to exhibit substantial growth rates in the foreseeable future. The domain is largely governed by industry giants such as Faurecia and BASF Catalysts, among other notable contenders. A noteworthy trend within the domain suggests that manufacturers of catalytic converters are progressively transitioning from conventional fuel-based vehicles to the realm of vehicle electrification. This strategic shift is primarily motivated by the escalating concerns surrounding the escalating emission levels attributed to conventional engines, a predicament that has significantly contributed to the exacerbation of the global predicaments of air pollution and global warming. Furthermore, it has become increasingly evident that instances of catalytic converter theft are on the rise, a phenomenon primarily attributable to the remarkably high recycle value of the rare metals encapsulated within these devices. To effectively safeguard the catalytic converter, vehicle owners should seek the assistance of licensed auto shops that can facilitate the installation of protective measures such as protective plates, shields, clamps, cages, straps, or other specialized devices designed to ensure the security of this critical automotive component.

Drivers:

• Stringent Emission and Fuel Efficiency Regulations: As concerns about environmental sustainability have heightened, governments worldwide have taken decisive action by enacting and enforcing stringent regulations aimed at curbing emissions stemming from vehicular sources. These measures, intended to mitigate the deleterious impact of pollutants on air quality and public health, have catalyzed a significant surge in the need for catalytic converters. This surge can be attributed to the pivotal role played by these converters in diminishing the noxious elements discharged by vehicles into the atmosphere. Notably, in the context of the off-highway vehicle domain, the implementation of the Tier 4/Stage 4 emission regulations for off-highway engines has contributed to the amplification in the demand for catalytic converters. This surge underscores the pivotal role that these regulations play in steering the trajectory of the automotive industry toward a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
• Rising Awareness of Air Pollution: Amidst the escalating apprehension about the deteriorating air quality worldwide, the necessity for catalytic converters has surged significantly. The catalytic converter, a pivotal component of an automobile's exhaust mechanism, plays a crucial role in curbing the proliferation of harmful emissions into the atmosphere. By facilitating the conversion of perilous combustion gases into comparatively less deleterious elements, such as water vapor and carbon dioxide, it aids in mitigating the adverse environmental impact posed by vehicular pollutants.
• Increasing Demand for Passenger Cars: The automotive catalytic converter market is experiencing a significant surge primarily due to the escalating need for passenger cars globally. This surge is fueling the expansion of the market, leading to a diversification of offerings and an increase in competition among key players. In terms of segmentation, the market is categorically divided based on vehicle types, where the segment dominated by passenger cars is anticipated to maintain its prominent position throughout the projected period. This projection indicates the sustained preference for passenger cars and their continued dominance in the automotive sector, thereby bolstering the significance of the catalytic converter market within this specific domain. With advancements in technology and the growing emphasis on environmentally friendly transportation solutions, the role of catalytic converters in passenger cars is poised to become even more indispensable, solidifying their position as a crucial component in the contemporary automotive landscape.
• Advancements in Catalytic Converter Technology: The expansion of the catalytic converter market is primarily attributed to the ongoing advancements in catalytic converter technologies. Notably, the introduction of innovative three-way catalytic converters has played a pivotal role in curbing emissions stemming from gasoline-powered vehicles, thereby fostering a cleaner and more sustainable environment. These catalytic converters have effectively contributed to a marked growth.

reduction in harmful pollutants emitted by these vehicles, addressing pressing concerns related to air quality and public health. Similarly, the evolution of diesel oxidation catalysts has also proven instrumental in mitigating emissions associated with diesel-powered vehicles. This progress has underscored the industry's commitment to enhancing environmental performance and aligning with stringent regulatory standards governing emissions control. As a result, the continual refinement of catalytic converter technologies remains pivotal in driving the overall progress and sustainability of the automotive sector.

Products offered by key companies:

• Bosal catalytic converters are designed to reduce harmful emissions from vehicle's exhaust gases. This helps to protect the environment and reduce carbon footprint. Catalytic converters can also help to improve a vehicle's fuel economy by optimizing the combustion process.
• BASF offers a wide range of catalytic converters to choose from, depending on the type of vehicle and the emissions standards that need to be met. BASF catalytic converters are known for their high quality and durability, and they are backed by a comprehensive warranty.

Prominent growth in the three-way oxidation-reduction segment within the automotive catalytic converter market:

The three-way oxidation-reduction catalytic converter segment is projected to hold the largest market share in the automotive catalytic converter market. The segment is expected to maintain its dominance during the projection period due to the rising number of vehicles on the roads and the increasing demand for efficient emission control systems. Advances in material science and catalytic converter technology have driven the growth of the three-way oxidation-reduction segment. Ongoing research and development have resulted in novel catalyst formulations and improved converter designs that offer higher conversion efficiency and durability. The most popular and efficient catalytic technology currently is the three-way oxidation-reduction catalytic converter. Currently, they occupy the major market share, owing to their ultra-low emission. In summary, the three-way oxidation-reduction catalytic converter segment is growing due to the increasing demand for efficient emission control systems, advancements in material science and catalytic converter technology, and ongoing research and development efforts.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to hold a significant share of the automotive catalytic converter market:

The automotive catalytic converter market in the Asia Pacific region is poised to maintain its substantial share and dominant position throughout the forecast period, owing to a confluence of various factors. The rapid pace of urbanization, coupled with a marked demographic surge, has significantly contributed to the escalating volume of vehicles in this region. Concurrently, the marked improvement in the standard of living, the continuous expansion of the industrial sector, and the steady rise in the income levels of individuals have further catalyzed this growth trajectory. Moreover, there has been an upsurge in the demand for both light and heavy commercial vehicles, driven by the burgeoning requirements from diverse end-use industries, such as logistics, transportation, mining, and construction, thereby propelling the overall market growth. Of particular note is China's anticipated market share, projected to surpass that of the United States and solidify its position as the world's largest market for passenger cars, thereby fostering immense potential for the expansion of the automotive catalytic converter market in the foreseeable future. Simultaneously, the automotive catalytic converter market has witnessed a significant upswing in South America, the Middle East, and Africa, primarily attributable to the burgeoning automotive sector in these respective regions. In essence, the Asia Pacific region is poised to retain a substantial stake in the automotive catalytic converter market, owing to the simultaneous surge in urbanization, demographic growth, improved living standards, industrial expansion, and increased income levels, along with the escalating demand for light and heavy commercial vehicles, all of which have collectively fostered the rapid development of the automotive sector in the region.

Market developments:

• In January 2022, BM Catalysts Limited, a leading European manufacturer of after-market catalytic converters, DPFs, and front pipes, announced its business expansion to meet the growing demand in the region. The company has a global reach, exporting to over 35 countries.
• In May 2022. The Connecticut government enacted Public Act 22-43, which establishes new regulations for the purchase and sale of automotive catalytic converters by auto recyclers, scrap metal processors, junkyard dealers and owners, and motor vehicle repair shops.

Segments

By Product Type

• Two-Way Oxidation
• Three-Way Oxidation-Reduction
• Diesel Oxidation Catalyst

By Material Type

• Platinum
• Palladium
• Rhodium

By Vehicle Type

• Passenger Car
• Light commercial vehicle
• Bus
• Truck
• Others

By Geography

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Others
• Europe
• United Kingdom
• Germany
• France
• Spain
• Others
• Middle East and Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Israel
• Others
• Asia Pacific
• Japan
• China
• India
• South Korea
• Indonesia
• Thailand
• Others