A2MAC1 Insights on Emerging Exterior Trends Shaping the Next Generation of Vehicles

As the world’s largest automotive market, China continues to lead the global transition toward electrification and intelligent mobility. With electric vehicles (EVs) accelerating innovation in both form and function, vehicle exteriors are evolving beyond aesthetics to become platforms for brand expression, interactivity, and advanced functionality.

Drawing from A2MAC1’s extensive teardown and benchmarking expertise, this article highlights three key trends shaping the Chinese automotive landscape in 2025.

Star Ring Lamps: A New Era of Brand Lighting

In today’s EV market, vehicle lighting has become a critical branding element. A rapidly growing number of new models in China are incorporating Star Ring Lamps—seamless, wraparound lighting systems that create a striking and futuristic visual identity.

A2MAC1 Key Insights:

• Widespread Adoption: Star Ring Lamps are increasingly featured across Chinese EV and premium vehicle lineups as brands seek distinctive lighting signatures, with a higher adaption for rear lighting but also fast growing share in front lighting applications.
• Functional Enhancement: Beyond appearance, OEMs are integrating advanced features such as animated sequences and adaptive lighting to enhance value and user engagement.
• Cost Dynamics: Based on A2MAC1 benchmarking, Star Ring Lamp designs typically exceed 500 RMB per unit, depending on size, complexity, and functionality.

Design Observations:

• Seamless integration across the full width of the vehicle enhances visual unity.
• Darkened or black-tinted outer edges increase contrast and perceived sophistication.

With consumer demand rising for high-tech aesthetics, Star Ring Lamps are becoming a defining exterior feature for brands seeking strong on-road presence and identity.

Intelligent Exterior Parts: From Styling to Smart Interaction

Exterior components in Chinese EVs are rapidly evolving into intelligent systems that contribute to vehicle performance, safety, and user experience. As electrification enables new design freedom, these parts are no longer passive—they’re purposeful and increasingly interactive.

Smart B-Pillar Modules: A Key Innovation

Since 2020, Chinese OEMs have been widely adopting B-pillar integrated electronics modules. These components mark a shift from traditional styling toward functional, connected design.

Key Functions:

• Vehicle Unlocking: Capacitive sensors or biometric touchpads allow seamless entry.
• Safety Features: Integrated electronics enhance access control and anti-theft measures.
• Human-Vehicle Interaction: Displays and indicators can welcome users or show vehicle status, reinforcing the vehicle’s technological character.

Material Evolution:

• Traditional PMMA plastic has largely been replaced with abrasion-resistant glass, delivering both durability and a premium tactile experience.

This evolution supports a more seamless and intelligent interaction between vehicle and user, while elevating exterior quality and brand perception.

Additional Functional Exterior Components:

• Active Rear Spoilers (ARS): Designed to automatically adjust with speed and driving conditions, offering a dynamic visual flair while contributing modestly to aerodynamics.
• Camera Monitor Systems (CMS): Replace side mirrors to reduce drag and expand driver visibility.
• Sensor-Ready Fascias: Front-end modules now often include mounts for LiDAR, radar, and thermal sensors.

A2MAC1 Recommendation:
Offer modular exterior configurations to meet diverse customer needs, allowing OEMs to balance cost, performance, and personalization.

LiDAR Integration: Supporting Advanced Autonomy

LiDAR has become a foundational technology in high-level autonomous driving, and its integration into exterior components is shaping vehicle design and development priorities.

Market Overview:

• Localized Supply Base: In 2024, Robosense, Huawei, Hesai, and Seyond accounted for over 99% of China’s automotive LiDAR market.
• Mainstream Technology Path: The VCSEL + rotating mirror architecture, adopted by Hesai and Huawei, has emerged as the preferred solution due to its cost-effectiveness and scalability.
• Shifting Away from EEL: Competing EEL-based designs, used by Robosense and Valeo, are being gradually phased out due to higher production complexity.

For OEMs, the challenge lies in selecting cost-effective, mass-producible LiDAR solutions that align with each vehicle’s technology positioning. Integration into the front grille, headlamp housing, or roof modules allows manufacturers to maintain exterior harmony while advancing driver-assistance capabilities.

China’s automotive market is not only leading in volume—but also in innovation. From intelligent lighting and functional body components to embedded autonomous systems, the boundaries of exterior design are being redefined.

At A2MAC1, our mission is to support this transformation through actionable insights, cost analysis, and detailed component benchmarking. As vehicle development continues to converge around intelligence, electrification, and design precision, we remain a trusted partner for OEMs, suppliers, and mobility innovators around the world.