Dry Clutch Market: Current Analysis and Forecast (2023-2030)

A dry clutch is a type of clutch used in internal combustion engines, particularly in motorcycles and racing cars. It consists of a set of friction discs (or plates) which are pressed together by a pressure plate when the clutch lever is pulled. This allows the engine to disengage from the transmission, allowing the rider or driver to change gears or come to a stop without stalling the engine. The dry clutch market is driven by the demand for two-wheelers and light commercial vehicles which is growing rapidly in emerging economies, particularly in Asia and Africa. Dry clutches are commonly used in these vehicles due to their high torque capacity and efficiency. As a result, the growth in demand for two-wheelers and light commercial vehicles is driving the growth of the dry clutch market.

The Dry Clutch Market is expected to grow at a strong CAGR of 5.45 % during the forecast period owing to the development of new materials and designs which has led to improved durability and performance of dry clutches. For example, the use of carbon fiber and ceramic materials has resulted in lighter and more efficient clutches, while computer-aided design (CAD) software has enabled more precise manufacturing and testing of clutch components. These advancements have made dry clutches more attractive to consumers and are driving the growth of the market.

Based on design type, the market is segmented into single dry clutch and dual dry clutch. Amongst these, the single dry clutch segment of the dry clutch market has a significant share because it is widely used in a variety of applications, including motorcycles, scooters, and light commercial vehicles. Single dry clutches are preferred over multi-plate or wet clutches due to their simpler design, lower weight, and higher efficiency. They are also easier to maintain and repair than other types of clutches. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of high-performance motorcycles and sports bikes has driven the demand for single dry clutches. These bikes require advanced clutch systems that can handle high torque loads and provide precise gear changes, which is where single dry clutch excels.

Based on vehicle type, the market is segmented into passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles. Amongst these, the passenger vehicle segment has a dominating share in the dry clutch market because most passenger cars and SUVs use conventional internal combustion engines that require a clutch system to transfer power from the engine to the transmission. Dry clutches are commonly used in these vehicles due to their ability to handle high torque loads and provide better fuel economy compared to other types of clutches. Moreover, the rising demand for passenger vehicles in emerging economies, particularly in Asia and Africa, is driving the growth of the dry clutch market. As people in these regions become more affluent, they are increasingly able to afford private vehicles, and therefore, the demand for clutches used in passenger vehicles is expected to rise. Finally, advancements in technology, materials, and design have made dry clutches more efficient and durable, making them an attractive option for OEMs in the passenger vehicle segment.

For a better understanding of the market adoption of the dry clutch industry, the market is analyzed based on its worldwide presence in countries such as North America (U.S., Canada, and the Rest of North America), Europe (Germany, UK, Netherlands, France, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India and Rest of Asia-Pacific), Rest of World. The Asia Pacific region currently dominates the dry clutch market due to several factors. Firstly, the region has the largest population in the world, with rapidly growing middle classes in countries like China, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. As a result, there is a significant demand for two-wheelers, light commercial vehicles, and passenger cars in this region. Secondly, many Asian countries have favorable government policies and incentives to encourage domestic production of automobiles and motorcycles, which has led to the establishment of many local manufacturing plants. Thirdly, there is a strong presence of major dry clutch manufacturers in the region, including companies such as Bosch, JATO Technologies, Valeo, and Denso. These companies have established production facilities and R&D centers in countries like China, India, and Japan, where they can leverage low-cost labor and access skilled engineers. Finally, the growing popularity of off-road vehicles and sports bikes in the region is driving the demand for high-performance clutch systems, which are mostly provided by dry clutches. As such, the Asia Pacific region is expected to continue to dominate the dry clutch market in the coming years.

Some major players operating in the market include Schaeffler AG, BorgWarner Inc., Honeywell International Inc., DRiV Automotive Inc., TMD FRICTION HOLDINGS GMBH, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, AISIN CORPORATION, Carlisle Brake & Friction, JATCO Ltd, and VALEO.