Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Automotive Pedestrian Protection Systems
The global market for pedestrian protection systems for motor vehicles is experiencing a tidal wave of innovation, fueled by technological advances, tighter regulations and evolving consumer safety expectations. The major players in the market, including the car manufacturers, IT system integrators and pioneering AI startups, are vying for leadership, deploying advanced technologies such as data analysis based on artificial intelligence, Internet of Things integration and biometrics to improve system performance and the user experience. The car manufacturers are focused on integrating these systems into new models. The IT system integrators are developing powerful, reliable software solutions that optimize system performance. Meanwhile, a new breed of players, mainly from the green building sector, are reshaping the market by placing an emphasis on safety and sustainable development. The biggest opportunities for growth in 2024–25 will be in North America and Europe, where the regulatory environment is becoming more favourable to the use of advanced pedestrian protection systems, allowing strategic players to respond to local market demands.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
Vendors are supplying complete solutions, integrating a variety of pedestrian-protection technologies.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Robert Bosch GmbH |
Extensive automotive expertise and innovation |
Advanced driver-assistance systems |
Global |
| Continental AG |
Strong focus on safety and automation |
Safety systems and sensors |
Global |
| Autoliv Inc |
Leader in automotive safety systems |
Airbags and safety electronics |
Global |
| DENSO |
Innovative technology and R&D capabilities |
Safety and driver assistance systems |
Global |
| Valeo |
Strong focus on smart mobility solutions |
Active safety systems |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on specific technologies that enhance pedestrian safety.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Aptiv PLC |
Advanced software and connectivity solutions |
Automated driving and safety systems |
Global |
| Mobileye |
Pioneering computer vision technology |
Collision avoidance systems |
Global |
| ZF |
Comprehensive safety and control systems |
Active and passive safety technologies |
Global |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These vendors supply the necessary infrastructure and equipment for pedestrian protection systems.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Magna International Inc |
Diverse automotive solutions and manufacturing |
Safety and structural components |
Global |
| WABCO Holdings, Inc |
Expertise in vehicle safety and control systems |
Braking and stability control systems |
Global |
| Nissan Motor Company Ltd |
Integration of safety in vehicle design |
Pedestrian safety features in vehicles |
Global |
| AB Volvo |
Commitment to safety and sustainability |
Integrated safety systems |
Global |
| Subaru Corporation |
Focus on all-wheel drive and safety |
EyeSight driver assist technology |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- The Israeli company, Mobileye, specializes in ADAS, with a focus on pedestrian detection and collision avoidance. They have signed deals with several automobile manufacturers to have their systems built into new car models. In doing so, they are taking on the established suppliers such as Continental and Bosch.
- Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd. (Japan): Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd. has a new and active pedestrian protection system. A major Japanese automobile manufacturer has recently adopted this system for its new model, thus completing the existing safety system and enhancing the safety of the whole vehicle.
- Veoneer, Sweden: Pedestrian protection systems based on photo-optical and radar sensors. They have recently obtained supply contracts from European car manufacturers, thereby establishing themselves as a strong competitor to established suppliers such as Denso.
- ZENUTITY (SWEDEN): Zenuity is a joint venture between the Swedish car manufacturer, Volvo Cars and Veoneer, which develops the software for the driverless car and pedestrian protection. With its recent collaboration with the car manufacturer, Zenuity has challenged the established suppliers by integrating cutting-edge AI technology in the latest models.
Regional Trends: In 2023, the installation of pedestrian protection systems is undergoing a considerable increase in Europe and North America, prompted by the stricter regulations and by the increased demand for vehicle safety features. The specialization in technology is shifting towards solutions based on artificial intelligence and on combined systems that combine several sensors for better accuracy and reliability.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- In order to make their safety systems more effective, Continental AG and Mobileye have teamed up to integrate the latest in pedestrian-detection technology. The aim is to enhance the safety of vehicles and to strengthen the companies’ position in the growing market for pedestrian protection.
- Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd. acquired a minority stake in a start-up that specializes in pedestrian sensors, with the aim of speeding up the development of new products and expanding its market share in automobile safety.
- Ford and Robert Bosch are developing a new pedestrian protection system based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. The aim is to improve safety in the city and to meet the growing requirements for pedestrian safety.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Collision Detection |
Bosch, Continental |
The most advanced Bosch camera and radar systems, which provide an enhanced real-time detection of collisions, have been successfully integrated into a number of different vehicle models. The Continental systems, on the other hand, have used machine learning to improve their recognition capabilities, and have been successfully tested with several automobile manufacturers. |
| Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) |
Mobileye, Aisin Seiki |
Mobileye’s AEB technology has been widely adopted and has been included in many cars. It has proven its effectiveness in reducing pedestrian accidents. Aisin Seiki has developed a unique AEB system that is integrated with its vehicle dynamics control. The system enhances the car’s safety performance. |
| Pedestrian Recognition |
NVIDIA, Denso |
The high-speed and high-precision AI-based pedestrian recognition technology of NVIDIA is used in many different kinds of driverless car projects. Similarly, the advanced image recognition technology of Denso has also been adopted by many car manufacturers. |
| User Interface and Alerts |
Ford, Toyota |
The Ford system, which is a kind of “traffic lights” for the driver, warns him of the presence of a pedestrian in the road and, by a system of symbols, warns him of the dangers that he is likely to encounter. The Toyota system, which consists of a system of vibrations, enables the driver to feel the danger and to respond more quickly in critical situations. |
| Data Analytics and Reporting |
Siemens, Harman |
It offers a range of advanced data-mining solutions to help vehicle manufacturers analyse pedestrian accidents and improve their systems. Its reporting tools help fleet operators make the most of the real-world data to enhance safety. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Competitive Landscape Ahead
The market for pedestrian protection systems for cars is characterised by high market fragmentation and fierce competition. The competition is between the established players and the new entrants. Regionally, the trend is towards greater regulatory focus on safety, particularly in Europe and North America. This has led to a rapid pace of innovation among the manufacturers. The established players are able to rely on their reputation and their established distribution channels. The new entrants are able to rely on the latest developments in the field of artificial intelligence and automation to give them an edge. Strategic considerations for the manufacturers include the need to invest in sustainable and flexible capabilities. The manufacturers that are able to integrate advanced technology into their products while complying with regulatory standards will be the best placed to capture the consumers’ trust and drive the market growth.
