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Small Cars - Worldwide

Worldwide
  • Revenue in the Small Cars market is projected to reach US$138bn in 2024.
  • Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2029) of 11.35%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$237bn by 2029.
  • Small Cars market unit sales are expected to reach 10.4m vehicles in 2029.
  • The volume weighted average price of Small Cars market in 2024 is expected to amount to US$16k.
  • From an international perspective it is shown that the most revenue will be generated China (US$13bn in 2024).

The Small Cars Market segment includes economy passenger cars of an average footprint around 3.7m2 (40 ft2), an average mass around 1200kg (2680lbs) and a passenger/cargo volume between 2.4 m3 and 2.8 m3 (85 ft3 and 99 ft3). All key figures shown represent the sales of new small cars in the basic configuration in the respective year. Used vehicles are not taken into account, nor is adapted equipment for the new cars sold. The prices and revenues shown as well as the distribution of connectivity, drive types, autonomy levels, and average CO2 emissions are accordingly based on the basic models.

  • European Car Segment: B (Small Cars)
  • US Car Segment: Subcompact Cars
  • Chinese Car Segment: Category A
  • Also known as: Light Cars, Superminis

Example models: Citroën C3, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai i30, Kia e-Soul, Lancia Ypsilon, Mazda 2, Nissan Note, Opel Corsa, Peugeot 208, Renault Clio, Seat Ibiza, Škoda Fabia, Suziki Swift, Toyota Yaris, Volkswagen Polo.

In-Scope

  • Economy passenger cars - Small Cars

Out-Of-Scope

  • Small SUVs
  • Sports models
Small Cars: market data & analysis - Cover

Market Insights report

Small Cars: market data & analysis

Study Details

    Unit Sales

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Notes: The chart “Comparable Estimates” shows the forecasted development of the selected market from different sources. Please see the additional information for methodology and publication date.

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Analyst Opinion

    The Small Cars market in Worldwide has been witnessing significant growth in recent years. Customer preferences, trends in the market, local special circumstances, and underlying macroeconomic factors have all contributed to the development of this market.

    Customer preferences:
    Customers in Worldwide have shown a strong preference for small cars due to their affordability, fuel efficiency, and compact size. Small cars are especially popular among urban dwellers who have limited parking space and prefer vehicles that are easy to maneuver in congested city streets. Additionally, small cars are often favored by younger drivers and first-time car buyers who are looking for a budget-friendly option.

    Trends in the market:
    One of the notable trends in the Small Cars market in Worldwide is the increasing demand for electric and hybrid small cars. As environmental concerns grow and governments implement stricter emission regulations, more customers are opting for eco-friendly vehicles. This trend is expected to continue as automakers invest in the development of electric and hybrid technologies. Another trend in the market is the integration of advanced safety features in small cars. With the advancement of technology, small cars are now equipped with features such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. These safety features not only enhance the driving experience but also attract safety-conscious customers.

    Local special circumstances:
    In certain regions of Worldwide, such as densely populated cities, small cars are particularly popular due to limited parking spaces and narrow streets. In these areas, small cars provide a practical and convenient transportation solution. Additionally, in countries where fuel prices are high, small cars are sought after for their fuel efficiency, allowing customers to save on fuel costs.

    Underlying macroeconomic factors:
    The growth of the Small Cars market in Worldwide can also be attributed to underlying macroeconomic factors. Economic stability and rising disposable incomes in many countries have led to an increase in car ownership. Small cars, with their lower price points, are often more affordable for a larger segment of the population. Furthermore, favorable financing options and government incentives for small car purchases have also contributed to the market's growth. In conclusion, the Small Cars market in Worldwide is experiencing growth due to customer preferences for affordable and fuel-efficient vehicles, as well as the integration of advanced safety features. Local special circumstances, such as limited parking space and narrow streets in urban areas, further drive the demand for small cars. Additionally, underlying macroeconomic factors, including economic stability and rising disposable incomes, have played a significant role in the market's development.

    Technical Specifications

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Notes: Level 0: No automation and very limited driver assistance in the form of automatic emergency braking or blind-spot warning. Level 1: Driver assistance such as cruise control or lane centering. Level 2: Partial automation, including brake and steering support. Level 3: Conditional automation in which the vehicle can perform most driving tasks. In certain scenarios, human intervention is still needed.

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Revenue

    Notes: Data was converted from local currencies using average exchange rates of the respective year.

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Price

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Global Comparison

    Most recent update: Oct 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Methodology

    Data coverage:

    The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the sales of new passenger cars. Data on the specifications of the sold vehicles is based on the base models of the respective makes.

    Modeling approach:

    Market sizes are determined through a bottom-up approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use company reports and websites, vehicle registries, car dealers, and environment agencies among other sources. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP and car stock per capita. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

    Forecasts:

    In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, we use the ARIMA model for the Passenger Cars market. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

    Additional notes:

    The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year. In some cases, the data is updated on an ad hoc basis (e.g., when new, relevant data has been released or significant changes within the market have an impact on the projected development).

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