North America’s EV Shift Drives Growth in High-Tech Automotive PCBs
The global automotive PCB market is projected to grow significantly, with an anticipated market size of US$ 10,397.2 million in 2025 and expected to reach US$ 15,680.4 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.1%. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for connected and electric vehicles, as well as the rising adoption of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The Asia Pacific region, particularly China, South Korea, and Japan, is set to dominate the market, with a 38% share in 2025. Key developments like the collaboration between 5GAA and ITS India for connected mobility are expected to enhance the demand for high-performance PCBs. However, the high cost of advanced materials used in these PCBs could pose a restraint to market expansion, particularly in emerging regions where cost sensitivity is more pronounced.
As the global shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates, North America is becoming a key player in the transition to cleaner and more sustainable transportation. With growing environmental concerns, consumer demand for greener technologies, and supportive governmental policies, the North American automotive industry is rapidly embracing electric vehicles. This shift is not only transforming the way vehicles are powered but is also driving substantial growth in the demand for advanced electronic components, especially high-tech automotive printed circuit boards (PCBs).
PCBs are the backbone of modern automotive electronics, serving as the essential medium for connecting and controlling the vehicle's complex electronic systems. As North America pushes forward with its EV adoption and electrification strategies, the demand for high-performance automotive PCBs has surged. This article explores how North America’s EV shift is driving the growth of the automotive PCB market and what the future holds for this rapidly evolving sector.
North America’s EV Revolution: Policies and Trends Shaping the Market
North America, particularly the United States, is experiencing a significant shift towards electric mobility, thanks to a combination of government incentives, corporate strategies, and changing consumer preferences. The push for EV adoption is expected to continue gaining momentum as governments and manufacturers prioritize environmental sustainability, innovation, and energy efficiency.
Key Factors Driving North America’s EV Shift:
1. Governmental Policies and Incentives
The U.S. federal government has rolled out several initiatives to encourage the widespread adoption of EVs. Under the Biden administration, there is a significant push for the adoption of electric vehicles with the goal of making half of all new car sales EVs by 2030. This includes tax credits for EV buyers, grants for EV infrastructure development, and stricter emissions standards for traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. These policies are designed to make EVs more affordable for consumers, stimulate demand, and reduce the automotive industry’s carbon footprint.
2. State-Level Initiatives
Many U.S. states, including California, have adopted even more ambitious EV goals, pushing automakers to increase their electric vehicle production. California, for example, has set a mandate to have all new car sales be zero-emission vehicles by 2035. Other states have also implemented EV-friendly policies such as rebates, access to high-occupancy vehicle lanes, and increased investments in EV charging infrastructure.
3. Private Sector Initiatives
North American automakers are investing heavily in EV production as part of their transition to cleaner technologies. Companies like General Motors, Ford, and Tesla are ramping up the production of electric vehicles to meet consumer demand and regulatory requirements. This shift has spurred an increased need for advanced electronics, including PCBs, to power the sophisticated systems within EVs, such as battery management systems, power electronics, and infotainment units.
4. Consumer Demand for Sustainability
As awareness of climate change and environmental issues grows, consumers are increasingly seeking vehicles that are not only cost-effective but also eco-friendly. This consumer trend is driving the demand for electric vehicles across North America. As more consumers embrace the benefits of EVs, the need for electronic components to power these vehicles— particularly high-tech automotive PCBs—will continue to grow.
The Role of High-Tech PCBs in EVs: Powering Advanced Automotive Electronics
The complexity of electric vehicles requires a wide range of electronic components that ensure the vehicle operates efficiently and safely. Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are essential for connecting and supporting these components. High-tech automotive PCBs are particularly important in EVs, where performance, reliability, and efficiency are paramount.
Key Applications of Automotive PCBs in EVs:
1. Battery Management Systems (BMS)
Battery management is one of the most critical aspects of electric vehicle performance. A reliable BMS ensures that the battery is charged and discharged safely and efficiently, optimizing the vehicle's range and performance. High-tech PCBs are essential for integrating the complex circuits needed to monitor the battery’s health, manage charge cycles, and protect against thermal runaway. With the growing demand for EVs, the need for advanced PCBs in battery management systems is expected to rise.
2. Power Electronics and Inverters
Electric vehicles require high-power electronics to manage and convert the electricity stored
in the battery to the electric motor. Inverters, which convert DC power from the battery into AC power for the motor, rely on specialized PCBs to handle high currents and voltages. As EVs become more energy-efficient and technologically advanced, the demand for highperformance PCBs that can withstand the stresses of power conversion and deliver reliable operation increases.
3. Electric Drive Systems
The electric motor and drive system are the heart of an electric vehicle. These systems rely on a variety of electronic controls, such as speed controllers, torque sensors, and motor controllers. Advanced automotive PCBs are necessary to connect and integrate these systems, ensuring precise control and energy efficiency. As the technology behind electric drive systems advances, so does the need for more sophisticated PCBs that can handle the increasing complexity of these systems.
4. Charging Systems and Communication Modules
The growing network of public and private EV charging stations also increases the demand for automotive PCBs. These charging systems require highly reliable PCBs to control charging cycles, monitor energy flow, and communicate with the vehicle’s on-board charging system. Furthermore, the growing trend of wireless EV charging and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems will require advanced PCBs that support seamless communication between vehicles, charging infrastructure, and the power grid.
5. Infotainment and Connectivity
As EVs become more connected and technologically advanced, infotainment systems have evolved into highly sophisticated, touchscreen-based interfaces that provide navigation, media streaming, vehicle diagnostics, and communication with other smart devices. These systems require high-performance PCBs capable of supporting high-speed data transfer, wireless communication, and multimedia processing. Additionally, PCBs are essential in the integration of autonomous driving systems, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and other connected vehicle features.
The Future Outlook: North America’s Impact on the Global PCB Market
As North America’s EV market grows, so too does the demand for automotive PCBs. With increasing investments in electric vehicle production and infrastructure, the region is set to become a key driver of global PCB growth in the automotive sector. In particular, the growing adoption of advanced technologies such as autonomous driving, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, and smart charging systems will require even more sophisticated PCBs.
Growth Opportunities for PCB Manufacturers:
1. Automotive PCB Innovation
The demand for lightweight, compact, and high-performance PCBs in EVs is pushing the automotive PCB industry to innovate. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on creating PCBs that can withstand high temperatures, offer enhanced durability, and support highfrequency and high-power applications. Advanced materials such as high-temperature laminates and flexible PCBs are becoming more common in automotive applications to meet these requirements.
2. Supply Chain Development
The transition to electric vehicles is also driving the development of local supply chains for critical components, including PCBs. As automakers look to reduce their reliance on foreign suppliers, there will be an increased focus on domestic production of automotive PCBs. This will provide opportunities for North American PCB manufacturers to meet the growing demand for automotive electronics while supporting regional economies.
3. Sustainability and Recycling
As the automotive industry moves towards sustainability, the need for environmentally friendly PCB production and recycling processes will become more important. Manufacturers are likely to explore the use of more eco-friendly materials and processes that reduce waste and the environmental impact of PCB manufacturing. In addition, recycling programs for old PCBs, particularly those from electric vehicle batteries and electronics, will be crucial for creating a circular economy in the automotive sector.
Conclusion: North America’s EV Revolution Sparks a PCB Boom
North America’s shift towards electric vehicles is not just reshaping the automotive landscape; it is also creating a boom in the demand for high-tech automotive PCBs. With government incentives, corporate investments, and growing consumer adoption driving the EV market, the need for advanced electronics is becoming more pronounced. Automotive PCBs are essential for powering EVs, from battery management systems and power electronics to infotainment systems and autonomous driving technologies.
As the EV market in North America continues to expand, it will be critical for PCB manufacturers to innovate and meet the demands of this high-growth sector. The future of automotive PCBs is intertwined with the evolution of electric and connected vehicles, and North America is poised to play a central role in this exciting transformation. With increased demand for high-performance, reliable, and eco-friendly PCBs, the region will help shape the global automotive PCB market for years to come.