Bringing in the New Year: 5 Trends Those With Careers in the Auto Industry Might See in 2021

The auto industry is constantly facing changes to consumer demand and evolving technologies. With this in mind, it’s important for auto mechanics to stay on top of the latest trends in order to anticipate changes, and to offer the services that match the current market. The future of the auto industry is exciting, and professionals can prepare for it by investing in the proper training, technology, tools, and equipment. If you’re thinking about entering the auto industry, you’ll want to look out for these five industry trends in the coming year. 

1. Auto Career Pros Should Anticipate an Increase in Electrification

Electric and hybrid vehicles have been steadily gaining in popularity over recent years. Technology is improving high-performance electric vehicles, and more and more manufacturers are coming out with electric additions to their lineup. It’s clear that battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are a trend that’s here to stay, and in 2021, those with careers in the auto industry should prepare to see a rising number of electric vehicles.

2. Less Rideshares, More Ownership

Although experts previously predicted that vehicle ownership would decline as the use of ridesharing platforms like Uber increased, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the direction of this trend. According to predictions for 2021, a rising number of drivers are expected to opt for their own vehicle in order to reach their destination safely, without risking exposure to the virus. In 2020, vehicles also became a “safe space” for many—a way to get out of the house, even if just for a short spin as a diversion to feeling so stuck at home. It’s safe to say that in 2021, many will continue to find solace in the safe space of their vehicles, with consumers continuing the trend of vehicle ownership.

3. Telematics and Connectivity in Vehicles

The Internet of Things and digitization are growing in importance in many industries, and as automotive technology grows in intelligence and prevalence, we’ll see more vehicles equipped with advanced connectivity capabilities in 2021. GPS systems, wireless internet capabilities, phone synchronization, and other examples of tech will increasingly dominate automotive infotainment systems in 2021. Additionally, vehicles will increasingly be embedded with telematics, giving manufacturers the ability to obtain data, and allowing these cars to connect to smart cities and smart technology.

4. 3D Printing

This technology can be used in many beneficial ways for the automotive industry, which may surprise auto career pros. One of the biggest advantages of 3D printing technology is its ability to manufacture spare parts and products, which auto shops and mechanics can utilize when conducting repairs and upgrades. 3D printing can also be used to build tools, so it’s likely that this technology will be increasingly valued in the automotive industry in the coming year.

5. Automation, AI, and Autonomous Vehicles

The use of artificial intelligence and research to successfully produce self-driving vehicles is a trend that has dominated 2020, with major players such as Uber and Tesla racing to turn out a fully autonomous model. This trend will continue into 2021, with the autonomous vehicle industry expected to be worth $715 million CAD by 2026. Although it’s too early to predict the impact these self-driving vehicles might have on the auto industry, it’s a safe bet to say we’ll be seeing more of this technology as it progresses in the new year.

Make 2021 the year you finally enroll in an automotive course.

Explore program options at ATC today.