Why in-car entertainment is a growing market
The motor factor and retail market has changed significantly in recent years, according to Simply Brands. While traditional categories, like bulbs, mats, and air fresheners, still have their place, today’s drivers are increasingly looking for technology that improves convenience, connectivity, and the overall driving experience. This presents a growing opportunity, according to o Business Development Manager, Sam Robinson.
Motorists are keeping their vehicles for longer, but they still want many of the features found in newer cars. As a result, demand is increasing for affordable in-car technology upgrades that make older vehicles feel more modern without the cost of replacing the car itself.
Products, such as portable Apple CarPlay devices, MagSafe phone holders and chargers, and dash cams, are becoming increasingly popular, with consumers looking to modernise their driving experience.
Why the popularity?
Many vehicles currently on the road still lack built-in infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto functionality. However, drivers have become used to having instant access to navigation, music streaming, voice assistants, and hands-free communication through their smartphones.
Portable Apple CarPlay screens provide a simple and cost-effective solution, allowing drivers to add modern functionality to older vehicles without expensive modifications or head unit replacements.
For factors and retailers, these products offer several advantages:
- Strong perceived customer value
- Growing consumer awareness
- Higher average selling prices compared to traditional accessories
- Broad appeal across multiple age groups
- Excellent upselling opportunities alongside charging and mounting accessories
As drivers continue to use smartphones as the centre of the in-car experience, this category is expected to keep growing.
Everyday essentials
Phone mounting solutions have evolved quickly over the last few years. Consumers increasingly expect simple, convenient, and clutter-free ways to keep their devices secure while driving.
MagSafe compatible holders and wireless chargers have become especially popular thanks to their ease of use and clean appearance. Drivers can securely mount and charge their phones with minimal effort, making them ideal for navigation, hands-free calling, and everyday commuting.
Unlike older mounting systems that often relied on awkward clamps or suction cups, magnetic mounting solutions provide a more modern user experience that many consumers now actively look for when shopping for in-car accessories.
These products benefit from:
- Strong impulse purchase potential
- Modern packaging and shelf appeal
- Compatibility with daily smartphone usage
- Growing customer familiarity with MagSafe technology
- Opportunities for bundled sales with charging cables and adapters
As smartphone integration continues to shape the driving experience, demand for convenient in-car charging and mounting solutions is only likely to increase.
Dash cams remain a strong category
Dash cams also continue to perform strongly within the automotive accessories market.
With increasing awareness around road safety, insurance disputes, and vehicle security, more drivers are recognising the value of recording their journeys. Dash cams are no longer viewed as specialist products. They are becoming mainstream purchases for everyday motorists.
For these reasons, dash cams can help strengthen a modern technology offering while also increasing average basket value.
Customers are often drawn to products that offer peace of mind, safety benefits, easy installation, smartphone connectivity, and compact, discreet designs.
As vehicles become more connected and technology-focused, dash cams fit naturally alongside other in-car tech accessories, like charging solutions and smartphone integration products.
Consumer expectations are changing
Today’s drivers expect more from their vehicles, even when driving older models. Convenience, connectivity, and smartphone integration are becoming standard expectations rather than premium extras.
Motor factors who adapt to these changing consumer habits have an opportunity to benefit from a category that continues to grow in both popularity and value.
In-car technology accessories are no longer niche add-ons; they are increasingly becoming core convenience products for modern motorists.
Looking ahead
As consumers continue to modernise existing vehicles rather than replace them, demand for practical technology upgrades is likely to remain strong.
Factors who expand their offering to include products, such as portable Apple CarPlay devices, MagSafe holders and chargers, and dash cams, are well-positioned to meet changing customer expectations, while also benefiting from growing demand within the automotive accessories sector.
At Simply Brands, we are continuing to develop product ranges that reflect how drivers use their vehicles today, combining convenience, practicality, and modern technology to help factors stay ahead of evolving consumer trends.
