The automotive industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving sector, and one of the segments that has seen significant growth in recent years is the tonneau cover market. For those unfamiliar, a tonneau cover is a protective shield that covers the cargo bed of pickup trucks. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the cargo from external elements and potential theft.
With the surge in demand for pickup trucks and premium convertible cars, the tonneau cover market has witnessed substantial growth. In fact, in the United States alone, light-duty trucks outsold traditional passenger cars in a 2:1 ratio back in 2018. That’s a testament to the popularity of trucks and the subsequent need for tonneau covers.
Tonneau Cover Growth Statistic
A recent report from Arizton Advisory & Intelligence highlighted that the U.S. Tonneau Covers market is expected to reach a whopping USD 5 Billion by 2027, up from USD 3 Billion in 2022. This represents a CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period. Such data underscores the potential and growth trajectory of the tonneau cover market.
This growth can be attributed to several factors:
- Security: Tonneau covers offer an added layer of protection to the cargo, deterring potential thefts.
- Fuel Efficiency: Believe it or not, these covers can improve the truck’s aerodynamics, leading to better fuel efficiency.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A well-fitted tonneau cover can enhance the overall look of the truck, making it more appealing to the eyes.
Hardcover Segment: The Preferred Choice
When it comes to tonneau covers, there are primarily two types: hard and soft. The hardcover segment, especially for pickup trucks, has seen a significant rise in demand. Why? Well, in 2019, the demand for pickup trucks increased by almost 8% from the previous year. Brands like Ford and Ram witnessed a surge in their pickup truck sales.
The hard tonneau covers, apart from giving a sleek look to the trucks, offer robust protection. They are durable, secure, and can effectively protect the cargo from harsh weather conditions and potential theft. Companies are innovating in this space too.
For instance, in 2018, TrailFX introduced the Helix retractable cover, which boasts features like a spring-loaded aluminum canister and intermittent locking positions.
The Canadian company is debuting TerraVis, a folding tonneau cover that pulls power from the sun and stores it in removable batteries located in the bed of the truck. It’s being built to fit existing trucks and is said to hold over a kilowatt’s worth of solar panels in all.
https://uncrate.com/terravis-solar-truck-tonneau-cover/
Key Market Insights
| Parameter | Insight |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2021) | USD 3 billion |
| Projected Growth | CAGR of 8.6% (2022-2027) |
| Dominant Region | U.S. |
| Upcoming Trend | Solar-powered tonneau covers |
North America: The Dominant Player
Geographically, North America, especially the United States and Canada, dominates the tonneau cover market. The primary reason? The immense popularity of pickup trucks and convertible cars in this region. To give you a perspective, more than 3 million pickup trucks were sold in the United States in 2019 alone. Innovations are also on the rise.
Market Segmentation
The tonneau cover market can be segmented based on various parameters:
- Type: There are primarily two types – hard and soft covers. While hard covers offer better security, soft covers are more flexible and easier to operate.
- Sales Channel: The market is divided into OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket segments. The aftermarket segment has seen a rise due to the availability of customized options.
- Vehicle Type: Tonneau covers are predominantly used in passenger cars, but their demand in commercial vehicles is also on the rise.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the market is booming, it’s not without its challenges. One of the primary concerns is the heavyweight mechanism of convertible cars to cover and uncover the tonneau. This can be cumbersome for users and can potentially deter them from opting for a tonneau cover. However, with technological advancements, we can expect this issue to be addressed in the coming years.
Another interesting trend is the rise of the aftermarket services for automotive tonneau. With vehicles’ average life increasing and advancements in automotive components, the aftermarket segment is witnessing high demand.
Conclusion
The automotive tonneau cover market is on an upward trajectory, and the future looks promising. With continuous innovations, a surge in demand for pickup trucks, and the rise of the aftermarket segment, the market is set to soar to new heights. For those in the automotive industry or even potential consumers, keeping an eye on this segment can offer valuable insights and opportunities.
