Global Racing Clutches Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Performance;
Eco-performance, and High-performance.By Clutch Type;
Single-Plate, Multi-Plate, and Centrifugal Clutch.By Application;
OEMs, and Aftermarkets.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Racing Clutches Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Racing Clutches Market was valued at USD 570.37 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 802.57 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.0%.
The global racing clutches market encapsulates the dynamic world of high-performance automotive components tailored specifically for motorsport applications. Racing clutches, renowned for their precision engineering and exceptional durability, are essential elements in enhancing vehicle performance, optimizing power delivery, and maximizing acceleration in competitive racing environments. From professional motorsports leagues to grassroots racing circuits, the demand for racing clutches continues to surge, driven by a fervent pursuit of speed, reliability, and competitive advantage among racing enthusiasts and professional teams alike.
At the core of the racing clutches market lies a relentless quest for innovation and technological advancement. Manufacturers continually push the boundaries of design, materials, and manufacturing techniques to develop clutches that withstand the punishing demands of high-speed racing while delivering unparalleled performance and consistency. Advanced materials such as carbon fiber, ceramic, and titanium are increasingly favored for their lightweight properties, high torque capacity, and thermal resistance, allowing racing clutches to endure the extreme heat and stress encountered on the track without compromising performance.
The global racing clutches market caters to a diverse spectrum of racing disciplines, including drag racing, circuit racing, rally, drifting, and time attack competitions, each with its unique set of performance requirements and driving conditions. Drag racing clutches, characterized by rapid engagement and high torque capacity, enable lightning-fast launches and blistering acceleration off the line, while circuit racing clutches prioritize smooth engagement, precise modulation, and heat dissipation to withstand prolonged periods of high-speed driving and frequent gear changes.
The advent of electric and hybrid racing platforms has introduced new challenges and opportunities for the racing clutches market. While traditional manual and sequential transmissions remain prevalent in many racing series, the emergence of electric drivetrains and dual-clutch transmissions necessitates innovative clutch solutions capable of harnessing the instantaneous torque delivery and seamless gear changes characteristic of electrified powertrains. As electric racing continues to gain traction, racing clutch manufacturers are adapting their offerings to meet the evolving needs of this burgeoning segment, leveraging advanced technologies and materials to optimize performance and efficiency in electric racing applications.
In essence, the global racing clutches market represents a dynamic and ever-evolving ecosystem driven by the relentless pursuit of performance, innovation, and competitive excellence in motorsport. As racing technologies continue to advance and boundaries are pushed ever further, racing clutch manufacturers play a pivotal role in equipping drivers and teams with the tools they need to achieve victory on the track and push the limits of automotive performance to new heights.
Global Racing Clutches Market Recent Developments
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In September 2023, AP Racing launched its CP8350 racing clutch designed for endurance racing vehicles. The product aims to provide enhanced durability and consistent performance under high-stress conditions.
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In March 2022, Exedy Corporation unveiled its Hyper Single VF clutch, optimized for high-torque applications in motorsport vehicles. This launch emphasized balancing performance with drivability for competitive racing scenarios.
Segment Analysis
The global racing clutches market is segmented by performance into eco-performance and high-performance categories. The eco-performance segment caters to consumers seeking a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, typically preferred in entry-level racing categories or vehicles with less demanding specifications. On the other hand, the high-performance segment dominates the market, focusing on advanced materials and technologies that enhance the durability and power transfer of racing vehicles. High-performance clutches are essential in professional motorsports, where precise handling and maximum torque are necessary to meet the rigorous demands of competition.
Racing clutches are also categorized by clutch type, including single-plate, multi-plate, and centrifugal clutches. The single-plate clutch is the most common in traditional applications, offering a simple yet effective solution for moderate performance needs. Multi-plate clutches are used in higher-performance applications, providing greater torque capacity in compact sizes, making them ideal for competitive racing scenarios. The centrifugal clutch, primarily used in smaller engine systems like go-karts and motorcycles, engages automatically based on the engine speed, offering ease of use and reliability in less complex racing conditions.
In terms of application, the racing clutches market is divided into OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and aftermarkets. OEMs focus on the production of clutches designed for integration into new racing vehicles, ensuring consistency and reliability from the start. The aftermarket segment caters to customers who are looking to upgrade or replace their clutches for improved performance. As racers seek customized solutions for specific needs, aftermarket sales play a crucial role in offering a wide range of performance options, from street cars to specialized motorsport applications.
Geographically, the racing clutches market spans several regions, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. North America and Europe are the leading markets, driven by a strong presence of motorsports and a high demand for cutting-edge racing technologies. Asia Pacific is experiencing significant growth due to the rising interest in motorsports, especially in countries like Japan and India. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East and Africa are emerging markets, with motorsport participation gradually increasing, further boosting the demand for racing clutches in these regions.
Global Racing Clutches Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Racing Clutches Market has been segmented by Performance, Clutch Type, Application and Geography.
Global Racing Clutches Market, Segmentation by Performance
The Global Racing Clutches Market has been segmented by Performance into Eco-performance and High-performance.
The segmentation of the global racing clutches market by performance delineates between two distinct categories: eco-performance and high-performance, each catering to specific needs and preferences within the racing community.
Eco-performance racing clutches represent a category increasingly gaining traction within the racing world, particularly in response to growing concerns about environmental sustainability and fuel efficiency. These clutches are engineered to deliver optimal performance while minimizing environmental impact, striking a balance between power and efficiency. Eco-performance clutches are designed to optimize fuel consumption, reduce emissions, and enhance overall vehicle efficiency without compromising performance. They are particularly suited for racing disciplines where fuel economy and environmental considerations are paramount, such as endurance racing and eco-friendly racing series.
In contrast, high-performance racing clutches are synonymous with uncompromising performance, raw power, and maximum speed. Engineered to withstand the rigors of competitive racing, high-performance clutches are designed to deliver instantaneous torque transfer, rapid engagement, and precise control, enabling drivers to extract maximum performance from their vehicles. These clutches are favored in high-intensity racing disciplines such as drag racing, circuit racing, and drifting, where split-second shifts and rapid acceleration are critical to achieving victory. High-performance clutches are characterized by their robust construction, advanced materials, and innovative designs, allowing them to withstand the extreme heat, torque, and stress encountered on the track.
The segmentation of the global racing clutches market into eco-performance and high-performance categories reflects the diverse needs and preferences of racing enthusiasts and professional teams worldwide. While eco-performance clutches cater to those seeking a balance between performance and environmental sustainability, high-performance clutches cater to drivers and teams pushing the limits of speed and performance in competitive racing environments. By offering a range of performance options, racing clutch manufacturers can effectively address the varied requirements of different racing disciplines, driving innovation and competition within the global racing clutches market.
Global Racing Clutches Market, Segmentation by Clutch Type
The Global Racing Clutches Market has been segmented by Clutch Type into Single-Plate, Multi-Plate, and Centrifugal Clutch.
The Global Racing Clutches Market is primarily segmented based on clutch type, with key categories including single-plate, multi-plate, and centrifugal clutches. The single-plate clutch segment holds a significant share of the market due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and reliable performance in many racing applications. Single-plate clutches are widely used in motorsports where high torque transmission and fast gear engagement are critical, making them a popular choice for entry-level and mid-level racing vehicles.
The multi-plate clutch segment is expected to see notable growth, driven by the increasing demand for high-performance racing vehicles that require precise control over torque. Multi-plate clutches provide better power handling and faster engagement compared to single-plate clutches, making them ideal for more advanced racing formats, including high-speed tracks and professional racing leagues. These clutches typically feature more than one friction plate, allowing for greater torque capacity, better heat dissipation, and improved durability under extreme conditions.
Centrifugal clutches, while not as commonly used as the other two types, are gaining traction in certain racing applications, particularly in go-karting and smaller racing vehicles. Centrifugal clutches automatically engage based on engine speed, making them suitable for lower-speed races and vehicles with less power. The growth of grassroots motorsports and increasing interest in amateur racing are expected to drive demand for centrifugal clutches in the coming years, as they offer simplicity and ease of use, making them appealing to novice racers and enthusiasts.
Global Racing Clutches Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Racing Clutches Market has been segmented by Application into OEMs and Aftermarkets.
The segmentation of the Global Racing Clutches Market by application into OEMs and Aftermarkets reflects the diverse channels through which racing clutches are supplied to end-users in the motorsport industry. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) represent one significant segment within this framework, catering to racing teams, automotive manufacturers, and vehicle builders seeking high-performance clutch solutions for factory-installed applications. OEM racing clutches are designed, engineered, and integrated into production vehicles or race cars as original equipment, providing a seamless fit, compatibility, and performance within the vehicle's drivetrain system. Racing clutches supplied to OEMs undergo rigorous testing, validation, and quality assurance processes to meet industry standards, regulatory requirements, and performance specifications, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and durability in racing and high-performance automotive applications.
In contrast, the Aftermarket segment of the racing clutches market caters to individual consumers, racing enthusiasts, aftermarket tuners, and professional racing teams seeking replacement, upgrade, or customized clutch solutions for motorsport vehicles. Aftermarket racing clutches are available through a network of distributors, retailers, and online platforms, offering a wide range of options in terms of clutch types, sizes, materials, and configurations to suit specific racing disciplines, vehicle models, and performance requirements. Racing enthusiasts and professional teams often turn to the aftermarket for specialized clutch solutions tailored to their unique needs, whether it involves enhancing launch control, improving shift feel, or optimizing torque transfer for competitive racing applications.
The Aftermarket segment of the racing clutches market provides opportunities for customization, personalization, and performance tuning, allowing end-users to select clutch components, friction materials, and engagement characteristics that align with their driving preferences, racing style, and vehicle modifications. Aftermarket racing clutches may offer adjustable features, such as pedal effort, engagement point, and slip characteristics, enabling drivers to fine-tune clutch performance according to track conditions, driving dynamics, and racing strategies. Additionally, aftermarket racing clutches often incorporate innovative technologies, materials, and design enhancements not found in standard OEM offerings, allowing enthusiasts and professional racers to gain a competitive edge and maximize performance on the track.
In summary, the segmentation of the Global Racing Clutches Market into OEMs and Aftermarkets reflects the dual channels through which racing clutches are supplied and distributed to end-users in the motorsport industry. While OEMs cater to factory-installed applications and production vehicles, the Aftermarket segment serves the diverse needs and preferences of racing enthusiasts, aftermarket tuners, and professional racing teams seeking customized, high-performance clutch solutions for competitive racing and motorsport applications. By addressing the unique requirements of each segment, racing clutch manufacturers and suppliers can capitalize on market opportunities, drive innovation, and meet the evolving demands of the motorsport community worldwide.
Global Racing Clutches Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Racing Clutches Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Racing Clutches Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
The Global Racing Clutches Market is segmented by geography to account for the regional variations in racing culture, automotive preferences, and competitive landscapes that influence the demand for high-performance clutch systems. Racing enthusiasts and automotive professionals around the world have distinct preferences and requirements when it comes to clutch systems, often influenced by factors such as driving styles, track conditions, and regulatory environments.
In North America, the racing clutches market is characterized by a vibrant motorsports culture, with a strong presence of racing events, professional racing teams, and enthusiast communities. Performance-driven consumers in North America demand racing clutches that offer superior durability, engagement feel, and torque handling capabilities, whether for drag racing, circuit racing, or drifting competitions. Additionally, the aftermarket racing parts industry in North America is well-developed, with a wide range of aftermarket clutch manufacturers and distributors catering to the diverse needs of racers and enthusiasts across the continent.
In Europe, racing clutches are integral to the region's rich motorsports heritage, with iconic racing events such as the Le Mans 24 Hours, Formula 1 Grand Prix, and World Rally Championship attracting enthusiasts and professionals from around the world. European racers value clutch systems that deliver precise engagement, rapid shifting, and consistent performance under demanding racing conditions. The European racing clutches market is characterized by a mix of established clutch manufacturers, boutique racing specialists, and aftermarket tuners, offering a diverse range of products tailored to different racing disciplines and driving preferences.
In the Asia-Pacific region, the racing clutches market is experiencing rapid growth driven by the expanding motorsports scene, burgeoning automotive aftermarket, and increasing participation in amateur and professional racing events. Countries such as Japan, Australia, and China are emerging as hotbeds of motorsports activity, with growing demand for high-performance clutch systems that can withstand the rigors of competitive racing. The Asia-Pacific market is characterized by a mix of domestic and international clutch manufacturers, as well as a thriving aftermarket ecosystem that caters to the diverse needs of racers and tuners across the region.
Overall, geographical segmentation provides valuable insights into the regional dynamics shaping the Global Racing Clutches Market, allowing manufacturers to tailor their product offerings, distribution strategies, and marketing efforts to effectively address the unique needs and preferences of racing enthusiasts and professionals worldwide.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Racing Clutches Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Motorsport demand
- Performance optimization
- Material advancements
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Environmental sustainability -Environmental sustainability is becoming an increasingly significant consideration within the global racing clutches market, as manufacturers and racing teams alike seek to minimize the environmental impact of motorsport activities. While the pursuit of speed and performance has traditionally been the primary focus in racing, there is growing recognition of the need to adopt more sustainable practices to mitigate the environmental footprint of racing events. Racing clutches play a pivotal role in this endeavor, as they are integral components in high-performance vehicles that compete in various racing disciplines.
One of the key strategies for enhancing environmental sustainability in the racing clutches market is the development and adoption of eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Manufacturers are exploring alternative materials such as recycled metals, bio-based polymers, and sustainable composites to reduce the environmental impact of clutch production. Additionally, efforts are underway to optimize manufacturing processes to minimize energy consumption, waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions associated with clutch production.
Advancements in clutch design and engineering are aimed at improving the efficiency and fuel economy of racing vehicles, thereby reducing their overall environmental impact. Eco-performance racing clutches are being developed to deliver competitive performance while maximizing fuel efficiency and minimizing emissions. These clutches are designed to optimize power delivery, reduce friction losses, and enhance drivetrain efficiency, thereby contributing to lower fuel consumption and reduced environmental pollution during racing events.
Another aspect of environmental sustainability in the racing clutches market involves the implementation of environmentally responsible practices throughout the product lifecycle, including distribution, use, and end-of-life disposal. Manufacturers are adopting strategies such as carbon offsetting, eco-friendly packaging, and recycling programs to minimize the environmental footprint of racing clutches from production to disposal. Additionally, racing teams are exploring ways to reduce their carbon footprint through measures such as energy-efficient transportation, sustainable logistics, and waste management practices at racing events.
Overall, environmental sustainability is emerging as a key driver of innovation and competitiveness in the global racing clutches market. By embracing eco-friendly materials, optimizing performance, and adopting sustainable practices throughout the product lifecycle, manufacturers and racing teams are working together to ensure that motorsport remains viable and environmentally responsible for future generations. Through collaborative efforts and technological advancements, the racing clutches market is poised to play a significant role in advancing the sustainability agenda in motorsport and contributing to a cleaner and greener racing industry.
Restraints:
- Cost
- Limited market size
- Regulatory constraints
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Environmental concerns -Environmental concerns play a crucial role in shaping the Global Racing Clutches Market, influencing product development, manufacturing processes, and industry practices in the motorsport sector. Racing clutches, like other automotive components, are subject to scrutiny regarding their environmental impact, particularly in terms of emissions, resource consumption, and waste generation. As awareness of climate change and environmental sustainability grows, stakeholders in the racing industry are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly practices and technologies to minimize their carbon footprint and ecological footprint.
One aspect of environmental concern in the racing clutches market relates to the materials used in clutch manufacturing. Traditional clutch materials, such as asbestos, lead, and heavy metals, pose environmental risks during production, use, and disposal, prompting efforts to develop alternative materials that are safer, more sustainable, and less harmful to the environment. Racing clutch manufacturers are exploring eco-friendly materials, such as advanced polymers, composite fibers, and recyclable metals, to reduce environmental impact while maintaining performance, durability, and reliability in racing applications. By adopting greener materials and manufacturing processes, the racing industry can mitigate pollution, reduce resource depletion, and promote a more sustainable approach to motorsport.
The disposal and end-of-life management of racing clutches raise environmental concerns regarding waste generation and recycling. As racing clutches reach the end of their operational life, they may contain hazardous materials or components that require proper handling and disposal to prevent environmental contamination. Efforts to improve recycling, reclamation, and waste management practices in the motorsport industry aim to reduce the environmental footprint of racing clutches and other automotive components, promoting circular economy principles and resource conservation. Manufacturers, racing teams, and industry stakeholders are collaborating to develop recycling programs, reclaim valuable materials, and minimize landfill waste associated with racing clutch disposal, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible motorsport ecosystem.
The broader shift towards electric and hybrid propulsion technologies in the automotive industry has implications for racing clutches and drivetrain components in motorsport applications. Electric and hybrid racing vehicles offer potential environmental benefits, such as reduced emissions, noise pollution, and reliance on fossil fuels, compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Racing clutch manufacturers are adapting to this shift by developing clutch solutions optimized for electric and hybrid drivetrains, incorporating regenerative braking systems, torque vectoring technologies, and lightweight materials to enhance performance and efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
In summary, environmental concerns are driving innovation and sustainability initiatives in the Global Racing Clutches Market, prompting manufacturers, racing teams, and industry stakeholders to adopt greener materials, manufacturing processes, and end-of-life practices to mitigate environmental impact. By embracing eco-friendly technologies and practices, the racing industry can uphold its commitment to environmental stewardship, promote sustainable motorsport, and inspire positive change in the automotive sector as a whole.
Opportunities:
- Market segmentation
- Customization
- Electric racing
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Endurance racing -Endurance racing has emerged as a significant driver shaping the Global Racing Clutches Market, influencing the design, development, and demand for high-performance clutch systems tailored to withstand the rigorous demands of long-distance racing events. Endurance races, such as the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans, Rolex 24 at Daytona, and 12 Hours of Sebring, test the durability, reliability, and performance of racing vehicles and their components over extended periods of intense competition. As a result, endurance racing places unique demands on clutch systems, requiring them to deliver consistent performance, durability, and thermal resistance throughout prolonged racing stints.
One of the key challenges in endurance racing is managing heat buildup within the clutch system, which can lead to clutch slippage, wear, and ultimately, component failure. Racing clutches designed for endurance applications incorporate advanced materials, cooling mechanisms, and heat dissipation strategies to mitigate thermal stress and maintain consistent friction characteristics under extreme operating conditions. These specialized clutch systems often feature lightweight components, improved heat dissipation properties, and enhanced friction materials to ensure optimal performance and reliability over long-distance races.
Endurance racing places a premium on driver comfort and consistency, as drivers must maintain focus and concentration over extended periods behind the wheel. Racing clutches optimized for endurance applications are engineered to provide smooth engagement, precise pedal feel, and consistent performance throughout the duration of a race, allowing drivers to execute precise gear changes and manage power delivery with confidence. Additionally, endurance-focused clutch systems may incorporate features such as adjustable pedal effort, customizable engagement characteristics, and quick-change components to facilitate driver comfort and adaptability during prolonged racing stints.
Endurance racing presents unique strategic and tactical challenges for teams and drivers, requiring careful management of mechanical components, fuel consumption, and tire wear over the course of a race. Racing clutches that offer durability, reliability, and consistent performance play a critical role in achieving success in endurance events by minimizing downtime, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring optimal power delivery throughout the race duration. As endurance racing continues to grow in popularity and significance within the motorsports community, the demand for high-performance racing clutches tailored to endurance applications is expected to increase, driving innovation and competition in the Global Racing Clutches Market.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Racing Clutches Market include:
- Advanced Clutch Technology Inc
- Australian Clutch Services Pty. Ltd
- Brembo Spa
- EXEDY Corp
- Holley Performance Products Inc
- OS Giken Co. Ltd
- Quarter Master
- Tilton Engineering Inc
- Valeo SA
- ZF Friedrichshafen AG
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Performance
- Market Snapshot, By Clutch Type
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Racing Clutches Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Motorsport demand
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Performance optimization
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Material advancements
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Environmental sustainability
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- Restraints
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Cost
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Limited market size
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Regulatory constraints
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Environmental concerns
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- Opportunities
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Market segmentation
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Customization
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Electric racing
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Endurance racing
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Racing Clutches Market, By Performance, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Eco-performance
- High-performance
- Global Racing Clutches Market, By Clutch Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Single-Plate
- Multi-Plate
- Centrifugal Clutch
- Global Racing Clutches Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- OEMs
- Aftermarkets
- Global Racing Clutches Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Racing Clutches Market, By Performance, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Advanced Clutch Technology Inc.
- Australian Clutch Services Pty. Ltd.
- Brembo Spa
- EXEDY Corp.
- Holley Performance Products Inc.
- OS Giken Co. Ltd.
- Quarter Master
- Tilton Engineering Inc.
- Valeo SA
- ZF Friedrichshafen AG
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market