Code: MTA3835 | Publication Date: Jun 2025 |
Automotive engines primarily use two types of valves which includes intake valves and exhaust valves. Intake valves function to let air or a mixture of air and fuel enter the combustion chamber, and are critical to the operation of the engine. These are made from a material that can withstand the high temperatures and pressures that occur due to combustion heat.
Exhaust valves function to let burnt gases exit the combustion chamber, and if the exhaust valves malfunction, the engine will not run efficiently. Modern automotive engines may also have technology advancements such as variable valve timing (VVT), which optimizes the opening and closing of engine valves, depending on the engine speed and load, for improved fuel economy and power output.
The engine valve market is dynamic, driven by new developments in engine design and changing regulations surrounding emissions. OEMs and suppliers are addressing material developments in respect to the durability of valves and lightweight materials like titanium and special alloys.
Likewise, the conversion to electrification is impacting the engine valve market; nevertheless, ICE-vehicles still represent the largest share of the automotive market, and hybrid vehicles can still maintain demand for engine valves. Suppliers are implementing new manufacturing processes including 3D printing and precision machining of valves to accommodate the increasing complexity of new valve designs.
Certain regions are crucial to the advancement of the automotive engine valve industry. Asia-Pacific is the largest manufacturer of vehicles worldwide, particularly in terms of the auto and two-wheeler production due to large domestic demand and higher levels of exports among countries such as China, India, and Japan.
North America also owns distinct market share owing to continuous innovation in ICE (internal combustion engine) technologies, and high consumer demands for larger passenger vehicles such as trucks and SUVs.
Meanwhile, Europe's strict emission requirements signifies that potential manufacturers will need to invest in higher performing, greener products such as engine valves. This geographical diversity ensures that the market remains resilient and continuously evolving to meet regional demands and regulations.