Core Viewpoint - The automotive belt market is experiencing growth opportunities due to the rapid development of PHEVs and the increasing total vehicle ownership in China, despite a decline in traditional fuel vehicle sales [1][10]. Industry Overview - Automotive belts, also known as drive belts, are essential components for power transmission in vehicles, ensuring smooth operation by transferring engine power to other mechanical parts [1][4]. - There are three main types of automotive belts: V-belts, multi-rib belts, and timing belts, with timing belts being crucial for connecting various engine components [3][4]. Market Status - The automotive drive belt market is closely linked to vehicle sales, with the market for front-mounted drive belts being influenced by fuel vehicle and hybrid vehicle sales [8]. - Despite a decline in fuel vehicle sales, the market for hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) is growing, contributing to a steady increase in the domestic automotive front-mounted drive belt market [10]. - The automotive aftermarket drive system market is expected to grow due to increasing vehicle ownership, projected to reach 35.3 million vehicles in 2024 [8][10]. - The market size for automotive drive systems in China is expected to grow from 5.3 billion yuan in 2022 to 5.75 billion yuan in 2024, with a forecast of exceeding 6 billion yuan by 2027 [10]. Competitive Landscape - The domestic automotive drive belt market is characterized by small and fragmented companies, with leading firms like Sanli (三力士), Fengmao (丰茂股份), and Sanwei (三维股份) generating only a few billion yuan in revenue [13]. - Compared to established international competitors like Conti, Hutchinson, and Gates, domestic companies face challenges in brand recognition and market competitiveness [13][15]. Future Trends 1. **Demand Upgrade from New Energy Vehicles** - The rapid development of new energy vehicles is reshaping the automotive belt industry, requiring belts with enhanced performance characteristics such as low friction, high temperature resistance, and longevity [19]. - Companies are focusing on developing specialized belts for new energy vehicles, utilizing high-strength polyester or aramid fiber materials to improve efficiency and reliability [19]. 2. **Deepening of Environmental Materials and Green Manufacturing** - Stricter environmental regulations are driving the industry towards green transformation, with increased use of bio-based rubber and recyclable materials to reduce VOC emissions [20]. - The industry is establishing a lifecycle assessment system to enhance environmental control from raw material procurement to recycling [20]. 3. **High-End Product Development** - The automotive industry's rising performance requirements are pushing belt products towards high-end development, with a focus on high-precision synchronous belts and low-noise multi-rib belts [21]. - Companies are enhancing product value through material modification and structural optimization, with customized services becoming a competitive focus [21].