China, as the world’s largest automotive market, has driven the growth of the Metal Injection Molding (MIM) industry. The maturity of MIM technology, spurred by the demand for automotive parts, has effectively addressed the challenges associated with manufacturing small, precise, and complex metal components. This technology is widely recognized as the most advanced method for producing metal parts.
Although the automotive market in China is approaching saturation, the markets for electric vehicles (EVs) and bicycles remain highly vibrant. According to industry experts, with the advancement of various new materials, the EV and bicycle sectors are poised to become significant new markets for MIM technology, following the automotive sector. Many electric bicycle manufacturers are focusing on enhancing their products’ market competitiveness through improvements in design, material selection, and functionality. This includes adopting a wider range of colors, popular wheel and handlebar designs, and advanced structural materials.
The materials used in bicycle frames have also evolved significantly. Early materials like cast iron and stainless steel are increasingly being replaced by lightweight alternatives such as aluminum alloys, carbon composites, and other advanced materials. Components now frequently use lightweight, high-strength materials such as carbon steel and premium aluminum alloys. Functional enhancements are also evident, with many products featuring variable speed settings, power-assist designs for easier and faster riding, and additional features like integrated compasses and cup holders for greater user convenience.
Currently, high-end electric bicycles and bicycles enjoy substantial sales on major e-commerce platforms due to their lightweight, feature-rich characteristics. The strong market demand and rapid development have led to a growing requirement for MIM components. Given MIM’s superior advantages in manufacturing metal parts—especially with materials such as carbon steel and metal composites—it offers benefits that traditional methods cannot match, including greater environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. Therefore, as market trends evolve, the EV and bicycle industries are becoming increasingly important to the MIM sector.