Across the globe, the car accessory market is on fire. Interest from manufacturers, installers and consumers is at a fever pitch, and new technologies, products and services emerge with each passing month.
This year is no different. Clear trends are emerging in the aftermarket parts industry across the globe.
The most innovation is coming in two categories. First, new technologies are driving product development in the parts industry. Consumer demand for connected cars, smartphone apps, and smart maintenance systems has grown rapidly. Beyond this, aftermarket equipment like LED headlamps, accessory-loaded “mod utes” and “mod trucks” and outdoorsy accessories are also likely to continue to garner attention in 2017.
6 Car and UTE Accessory Trends in 2017
What trends are generating the most excitement? Here’s a look at the top car and ute accessory trends for 2017:
| Car and UTE Accessory Trends in 2017 |
|---|
| Connected Cars and Utes |
| Car Apps and App Connectivity |
| Accessories for Mod Trucks and Utes |
| Modified exhaust systems |
| Aftermarket Equipment Upgrades |
| Outdoors Accessories |
Connected Cars and Utes
Most manufacturers have introduced connected infotainment systems into their vehicles, including smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth audio, and in some cases, in-car WiFi capabilities. Many of these same features are being offered by aftermarket installers. One of the biggest technology trends: WiFi connectivity. Many accessory manufacturers are producing WiFi routers that can turn your car or ute into a mobile hotspot. These WiFi units can be battery-operated, plug-and-play or integrated into the vehicle’s electrical system, and they typically tap into existing cellular networks.
Car Apps and App Connectivity
Another must-have car accessory: Smartphone apps. Although manufacturers have introduced a range of connected apps, like Mercedes’ mbrace app suite, a range of aftermarket apps are being introduced. There are now dozens of aftermarket maintenance apps that can connect with the vehicle’s computer and monitor fluids, send notifications for maintenance, and alert drivers of critical issues. Other aftermarket features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrate the driver’s phone into the vehicle’s display. More and more drivers are demanding this type of connectivity, and the car accessories market has noticed.
Read Also: The Top 7 Must-Have Accessories for Your Ute
Accessories for Mod Trucks and Utes
Will 2017 be the year of the mod? Consumers no longer want a stock truck or ute. Instead, they’re busy adding aftermarket accessories. The options for modifying your truck or ute are endless. The most popular options include:
- Nudgebars and rollbars
- Lightbars
- Aluminium ute trays
- Ute tray ladder racks
- Chrome wheels
- Spoilers
Modified exhaust systems
Today’s truck and ute modifiers – whether DIYers or specialists – are making bolder choices and stripping cars down to build them back up with aftermarket parts. This trend will continue to grow, as aftermarket parts suppliers and manufacturers continue to introduce new product lines.
Aftermarket Equipment Upgrades
Luxury vehicles are often sold with all the bells and whistles – think LED lights, remote start and rear-view cameras. Plus, top-of-line cars and utes are equipped with sportier equipment like sway bars and air suspension. In the accessories industry, a trend has developed to introduce all of these features at an affordable price point. For example, aftermarket air suspension kits – a must-have upgrade for off-road driving enthusiasts – have become more competitively priced. Additionally, features like LED lights, aftermarket remote starters and back-up cameras have all continue to gain in popularity.
Outdoors Accessories
Many aftermarket enthusiasts want to build the perfect backcountry vehicle. As such, more and more outdoors and adventure car accessories are hitting the market. One of the most popular: Rooftop tents that sit on the roof of utes, cars and wagons. These are becoming more and more common. A similar item, the car or ute awning has also become popular in recent years. Plus, manufacturers are developing new roof racks, designed to accommodate rooftop tents.
Car owners no longer want to settle for stock equipment. Now, low-cost aftermarket accessories make it possible to transform your stock car or ute into a luxury or backcountry adventure vehicle. From connected cars and apps, to enhanced equipment, these trends will continue to define the industry in 2017 and beyond.
