Permeability rate for the automotive LED lighting is on the rise. However, the market is still plagued with such problems as strict product regulations and lengthy authorization periods for human resource costs. Despite this, automotive LED prices and orders remain stable. Manufacturers are now aggressively trying to stake their claim in this niche market. LED wafer manufacturer Epistar’s president Li Bingjie revealed that with the company successful entrance into supply chains of European and Asian based automotive makers, their next target is the Korean automotive supply chain.
Mr. Li explained that the automotive LED lighting market can be split into two categories: automotive OEM and automotive aftermarket. The application field can also be segmented into three main categories such as interior lighting, exterior lighting, and head lights. The current permeability rate for the market is around 10-15 percent. Among the top international manufacturers in the automotive LED market, light emitting components by Osram and Philips Limileds make up the highest percentage with 50 percent and 25 percent respectively.
Aside from big names like Osram and Philips Lumileds, Nichia has also made a mark for itself in the Japanese market after the company’s expansion. Mr. Li points out that Epistar had continuously been nurturing the automotive market by entering into European supply chains early on. They have already successfully entering into Asia supply chains and are currently pushing to be authorized by Korean car makers.
Mr. Li expressed that the daytime running lights have become the current driver for market growth. Epistar however has not yet even shipped head light applications. Automotive lighting only makes up roughly 10 percent of Epistar’s entire revenue. That being said, the automotive market is still one that Epistar aggressively plans to grow.
