Auto Trim Market Seen Growing

From United Press International

DETROIT — CSM Worldwide of Michigan Wednesday predicted the North American automotive interior trim market will grow to more than $10 billion by 2009.

CSM said the growth represents a 33 percent increase from the $7.5 billion market in 2004.

The figures, based on piece-cost estimates, represent the combined market value for the following interior components: door trim panels, floor carpeting, floor consoles, headliners, instrument panels and package trays.

Don Montroy, CSM market analyst, North American Component Forecasts, said, “There is a big push in North America to have interior trim materials, sound quality, and overall fit and finish to equal that of European and Japanese luxury models.

“The market has also seen an increase in electronic integration with traditional interior trim pieces in recent years. Montroy believes that trend will continue to grow,” Montroy added.

CSM said nearly $5 billion, or 65 percent, of the $7.5-billion market comes from the top five suppliers. This trend is likely to continue as five out of the top ten interior trim market suppliers have significant electronic capabilities. They include, Visteon, Lear, Johnson Controls, Delphi and CalsonicKansei.

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