Automotive Air Filter Market

Automotive Air Filter Market Size and Share:

The global automotive air filter market size was valued at USD 5.52 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 7.75 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.82% during 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 55.9% in 2024. The increasing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles and the growing automobile production worldwide are stimulating the market growth. In addition to this, expanding automotive industry, particularly in the emerging economies and significant advancements in the filtration technologies, are collectively increasing the overall automotive air filter market share across the globe.

Some of the major drivers of the automotive air filter market are increased vehicle production and sales, growing awareness about air quality among consumers, and regulatory requirements on vehicle emissions. According to reports, global electric vehicle sales jumped 25% in 2024 to 17 million units as December turned out to be a record one. China accounted for 11 million of those and the UK became Europe's largest battery-electric market. The automotive air filter market share is expected to grow significantly due to rising awareness about air quality and vehicle maintenance. Increased demand for electric vehicles, which require air filters for HVAC systems, further represents one of the key automotive air filter market trends. Filter technologies like nanofibers and HEPA filters have advanced filtration efficiency. The rising after-sales demand created due to replacement requirements periodically based on air pollution, along with elongated vehicle lives, is boosting the market's growth.

Stronger environmental norms of the EPA forcing the emissions levels of a vehicle lower drive the United States automotive air filter market. High vehicle ownership rates and the rising consciousness about health impacts from air pollution boost demand for efficient air filtration systems. According to industry reports, in 2023, the U.S. had over 280 million registered vehicles averaging nearly two per household. Approximately 85% of households owned a car with rates varying by state. Washington D.C. had 47% car ownership while North Carolina exceeded 90%. Electric vehicle registrations had risen by 95% since 2018. Improvements in filter materials that provide better performance and durability are further driving the automotive air filter market growth. The strong aftermarket driven by routine maintenance and a growing electric vehicle segment contributes considerably to market growth.

Automotive Air Filter Market Trends:

Increased Demand for Cleaner Air Quality

The demand for cleaner air quality is driving the market as consumers become more aware of the health impacts of pollutants and allergens. High-quality air filters in vehicles help reduce exposure to harmful particles improving respiratory health and overall well-being. There is a growing preference for advanced filtration systems that effectively remove contaminants ensuring a healthier environment inside vehicles. For example, in April 2024, Lumileds introduced the Philips GoPure GP5212 automotive air purifier that uses a 3-layer filter to remove allergens, bacteria, viruses and toxic gases enhancing in-car air quality and providing a healthier environment for passengers especially those with allergies. According to the automotive air filter market analysis report, this is acting as a significant growth-inducing factor.

Advancements in Filtration Technology

Advancements in filtration technology are significantly shaping the market by enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of air filters. New materials and designs such as nanofiber and multi-layer filters improve the capture of fine particles and pollutants extending filter life and performance. These innovations provide better air quality and engine protection thereby escalating the automotive air filter market demand. For instance, in June 2024, MANN+HUMMEL developed the MANN-FILTER FreciousPlus cabin air filter featuring nanofiber technology. This advanced filter captures ultra-fine particles including those smaller than 0.1 micrometers which offers enhanced protection against pollutants and allergens for vehicle interiors.

Rising Adoption of Electric Vehicles

The increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is boosting the demand for specialized automotive air filters. EVs require high-performance cabin air filters to ensure clean air quality inside the vehicle given their sealed cabin environments. As EV usage grows the need for advanced filtration solutions that enhance passenger comfort and health is becoming more prominent in the market. For example, in April 2024, Ahlstrom unveiled a new dual-layer filtration technology for automotive air filters. This innovation extends filter lifetime by over 50% doubles dust holding capacity and allows for reduced filter size and weight enhancing engine performance and environmental efficiency.

Government Regulations and Rising Auto Sales

Governments across the globe, especially in developed areas, are enforcing strict rules to curb vehicle emissions and enhance air quality. For example, in 2024, the International Roads Federation (IRF) called upon India's Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) to implement tougher regulations aimed at decreasing carbon emissions from heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs), responsible for 60% of India's emissions. These regulations mandate the use of high-efficiency air filters to ensure that vehicles meet required emission standards, thereby boosting the demand for advanced air filtration technologies. Additionally, the increasing number of vehicles on the road is driving the need for effective automotive air filters. As vehicle sales rise, there is an increased demand for effective filtration systems that enhance engine performance and extend the lifespan of the vehicle. Additionally, with increasing environmental awareness, people are more frequently seeking vehicles that comply with legal standards and promote eco-friendly options.

Automotive Air Filter Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key automotive air filter market trends in each segment of the global automotive air filter market forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on type, propulsion, vehicle type, and sales channel.

Analysis by Type:

• Air Intake Filters
• Cabin Air Filters

In 2024, air intake filters dominate the market with 51.8% market share. The air intake filters dominate the automotive air filter market share as they block contaminants from reaching the engine, enhancing fuel efficiency and extending engine life. For example, high-efficiency filters from manufacturers like K&N are favored for their capacity to boost airflow while successfully obstructing harmful particles, which leads to better engine efficiency and power.

Analysis by Propulsion:

• ICE and Hybrid Vehicles
• Electric Vehicles

According to the automotive air filter market forecast report, ICE (internal combustion engine) and hybrid vehicles require both engine air filters and cabin filters. For instance, Toyota continues to expand its hybrid lineup with the latest versions of the Corolla and the Prius Hybrid, combining fuel efficiency with lower emissions. Growing demand from consumers for hybrid vehicles supported by environmental concerns and government incentives, is driving the demand for sophisticated air filtration systems. This is an indication of the importance of dual-filter configurations in supporting vehicle performance and passenger comfort.

Analysis by Vehicle Type:

• Passenger Cars
• Light Commercial Vehicles
• Heavy Commercial Vehicles

Passenger cars leads the market with around 55.4% of market share in 2024. Passenger cars are the leads the market due to their high sales volume and daily usage in transportation. For instance, compact sedans and SUVs like the Toyota Corolla and Honda CR-V often require high-performance air filters for improved cabin air quality and engine protection. Increasing urbanization and the growing middle class have boosted demand for these vehicles further driving the need for high-performance air filters. The growing awareness of health issues related to air pollution has made the automobile manufacturers focus on better filtration technologies that enhance passenger comfort and safety while supporting environmental standards through optimized engine efficiency.

Analysis by Sales Channel:

• Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
• Aftermarket

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) leads the market with around 69.9% of market share in 2024. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) dominate the market by supplying high quality and tailored filters directly to vehicle manufacturers. Their expertise, brand trust, and integration capabilities ensure consistent demand and preference over aftermarket alternatives. As per the automotive air filter market outlook, this will continue to augment the market over the forecasted period.

Regional Analysis:

• North America 
  • United States 
  • Canada 
• Europe 
  • Germany 
  • France 
  • United Kingdom 
  • Italy 
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others 
• Asia Pacific 
  • China 
  • Japan 
  • India 
  • South Korea 
  • Australia 
  • Indonesia 
  • Others 
• Latin America 
  • Brazil 
  • Mexico 
  • Others 
• Middle East and Africa

In 2024, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share of over 55.9%. According to the automotive air filter market outlook report Asia Pacific dominates the market due to its robust automotive manufacturing sector and rising vehicle sales in countries like China, India and Japan. The region's growing middle class and increasing urbanization drive demand for cars boosting the need for air filters to maintain air quality and vehicle performance. For example, a new-generation cabin air filter launched in India by Uno Minda is a testament to the region's focus on improving in-car air quality and catering to a large thereby further expanding the automotive aftermarket. The stringent regulations on emissions and air quality promote demand for advanced filtration solutions within vehicles across the region.

Key Regional Takeaways:

North America Automotive Air Filter Market Analysis

The North America automotive air filter market is seeing consistent growth due to rising vehicle production, heightened consumer awareness of air quality, and an increasing acceptance of electric and hybrid vehicles. Tighter emission regulations and environmental standards are driving the implementation of advanced filtration technologies to enhance engine efficiency and deliver cleaner air inside the cabin. The robust demand in the aftermarket within the region, driven by routine maintenance habits and an emphasis on vehicle efficiency, is additionally promoting the use of premium air filters.

United States Automotive Air Filter Market Analysis

In 2024, the United States captured 84.40% of revenue in the North American market. The United States automotive air filter market is expected to grow as the steady rise in new car sales and increasing adoption of electric vehicles are expected to drive growth. Nasdaq reports that new car sales in the U.S. reached 15.9 million units in 2024 up 2.2% year over year. This increase in vehicle ownership directly boosts the demand for automotive air filters which are essential for maintaining engine efficiency and ensuring clean cabin air. The growing PHEV segment also adds to the automotive air filter market growth. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, PHEV sales have increased from 1.7% to 2.0% of the total light-duty market in 2024. These vehicles need specialized air filters to meet the advanced needs of engine and cabin air filtration. The increased focus on air quality and vehicle performance further pushes the demand for innovative air filtration technologies and the market's growth trajectory is solidified.

Europe Automotive Air Filter Market Analysis

Europe automotive air filter market is growing significantly due to a rise in new van sales in the region. The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association, ACEA reported that new van sales in the EU were up 8.5% during the first nine months of 2024 at 1,170,310 units. The increase was based on positive performance in all four key markets. Spain led the charge with an impressive 16.7% growth followed by Germany at 8.2%, Italy at 7.3% and France at 5.8%. The growing commercial vehicle market driven by vans to meet the increased demand for logistics and transportation needs, is accelerating the demand for high-quality air filters in autos. The auto air filter acts as a preventive measure to preserve the efficiency of the engine and guarantee clean cabin air, especially during the stringent emission norms across urban areas. It is likely to increase further based on the sustainability and efficiency parameters of transportation emphasized by the regional market.

Latin America Automotive Air Filter Market Analysis

The automotive air filter market in Latin America is expanding notably due to a substantial rise in vehicle registrations and sales in the major nations of the region. In Brazil, for example, vehicle registrations in November 2024 increased by 19.21% compared to November 2023, resulting in a total of 253,499 cars registered. In the past year, 2,626,032 new automobiles were sold, reflecting a 15.33% increase compared to the previous year, as reported by Country Economy. Additionally, the adoption of electromobility is increasing in Argentina. As reported by ACARA, hybrid and electric vehicle sales in Q4 2024 saw a 45.8% rise compared to Q4 2023. With the increasing popularity of traditional and electric vehicles, there is a rising demand for improved automotive air filters to enhance engine efficiency and maintain clean cabin air. Rising environmental issues and stringent pollution regulations also boost the need for high-quality filtration technologies in the regional market.

Middle East and Africa Automotive Air Filter Market Analysis

The automotive air filter market in the Middle East and Africa is experiencing growth. This is mainly due to the increasing need for electric cars in the area. In the UAE, the appetite for electric vehicles has been steadily increasing and is expected to expand at an impressive compound annual growth rate of 30% from 2022 to 2028, according to estimates from the International Trade Administration report.

The rise in EV adoption is linked to growing environmental awareness, government incentives, and the development of infrastructure, such as charging stations. The growing adoption of EVs boosts the need for specialized air filters that guarantee clean cabin air and enhance performance in modern automotive systems. Furthermore, the UAE has mandated very high sustainability targets, and other regional countries are following suit. Therefore, the strict emission standards along with the necessity for cleaner transport systems will further help the use of high-quality air filters not just to ensure passenger safety but also environment-based goals.

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape of the automotive air filter market features key players focusing on innovation, strategic partnerships, and geographic expansion to strengthen their market positions. Companies are investing in advanced filtration technologies such as nanofiber and HEPA filters to meet evolving emission regulations and consumer demands. The market includes well-established manufacturers offering a broad portfolio of filters for both engine and cabin applications. Regional players are further attaining power by catering to particular market needs and focusing on cost-effective solutions. The growing prominence of electric vehicles has encouraged manufacturers to develop specialized air filters further intensifying competition in the market.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the automotive air filter market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Ahlstrom-Munksjö Oyj
• ALCO Filters (Cyprus) Ltd.
• Cummins Inc.
• DENSO Corporation
• Donaldson Company Inc.
• Freudenberg & Co. KG
• General Motors Company
• MAHLE GmbH
• Mann+Hummel
• Parker Hannifin Corporation
• Robert Bosch GmbH
• Sogefi SpA
• Toyota Boshoku Corporation (Toyota Motor Corporation)
• Valeo

Recent Developments:

• November 2024: Ambrane launched the AeroBliss Auto, a dual-function car air purifier and fragrance diffuser designed to address the rising air pollution in urban areas. It featured a 4-layer filtration system that included HEPA 13 and Activated Carbon filters, using Negative Ion Technology to cleanse the air.
• February 2024: In partnership with CabinAir, SKF introduced the SKF Smart Air Purification System designed for vehicles. This sophisticated system employed active particle charging and mechanical filtration to capture ultra-fine PM particles, viruses, bacteria, and harmful gases, enhancing air quality inside the cabin. It enhanced vehicle safety and comfort by reducing pollutants and included a real-time air quality monitor via the Nordzone app.
• February 2024: Smart Parts introduced washable and reusable cabin air filters that can endure for over 50,000 miles before needing maintenance. These sustainable filters minimized landfill waste and resource usage while delivering durable, top-quality performance. The innovation offered both environmental benefits and cost savings, promoting sustainable automotive maintenance.
• June 2024: MANN+HUMMEL launched the MANN-FILTER FreciousPlus cabin air filter that utilizes nanofiber technology. This sophisticated filter traps ultra-fine particles, including those less than 0.1 micrometers, providing improved defense against pollutants and allergens inside vehicles.
• June 2024: Uno Minda launched advanced cabin air filters for the Indian aftermarket. These filters utilize advanced media technology to enhance air quality within vehicles by removing pollutants, allergens, and odors, thus improving the overall driving experience and air conditioning effectiveness.
• June 2024: Lumileds introduced the Philips GoPure GP5212 car air purifier, which improves the air quality inside vehicles and creates a healthier atmosphere for passengers, particularly those with allergies.

Automotive Air Filter Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the automotive air filter market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global automotive air filter market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the automotive air filter industry and its attractiveness
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.