PORTSMOUTH, ENGLAND – Semicast forecasts the global market for automotive semiconductors will grow from $20 billion in 2007 to just over $30 billion in 2015. With total 2007 semiconductor revenues of around $255 billion, this suggests the automotive sector accounts for between 7% to 8% of the TAM, says the firm.

Average semiconductor content per new light vehicle is forecast to grow steadily from around $295 in 2007 to $375 in 2015.

Overall, highest growth is forecast for semiconductors used in entertainment systems, such as audio, infotainment, navigation and telematics. Here, demand is forecast to grow from $4 billion last year to $7.5 billion in 2015, a CAGR of almost 9%. The evolution of the entertainment system from audio to infotainment to navigation is the key growth driver in this segment, while increased shipments of rear seat entertainment systems, satellite radio and telematics (such as OnStar) will also drive growth, says Semicast.

Highest semiconductor demand will continue in conventional “under-the-hood” systems. Analysis shows revenues for semiconductors in “under-the-hood” systems accounted for around 80% of the total in 2007; this is forecast to decline only moderately over the period to 2015, to around 75%, says the firm.