The 5 biggest innovations in the automotive industry and how they affect your safety

Lee Hooper
Automative Innovation
← Back to Insights

What are the biggest innovations in the automotive industry and how will they affect worker safety for teams in 2025? Automotive safety expert Lee Hooper takes a look at five innovations in more detail.

The automotive industry is constantly evolving, but I have never seen change as dramatic and fast. It's simply unrecognisable from ten years ago. This is Illustrated most clearly in the acceleration in EV adoption. And as a safety expert, this is now the hottest topic.

With global EV sales projected to exceed 20 million units in 2025, the pace of change is faster than ever. I take a look at how this has affected worker safety, as well as other innovations including AI integration, and sustainability mandates.

Lee Hooper TOWER21
Automative Innovation3

Electric vehicles

I think it's been pretty clear for a while that EVs are no longer a niche. They’re everywhere. Solid-state batteries, ultra-fast charging, and government mandates have pushed them into the mainstream. But with high-voltage systems and new fire risks, they’ve also introduced a new set of safety challenges.

That’s why we’ve updated our EV PPE guide. We’re helping technicians and fleet managers choose the right protection, from arc-rated clothing and insulated gloves to face shields and anti-static footwear. The gear matters more than ever, and we’re here to make sure it’s fit for the future.

Big data for fleet management

Fleet management has gone digital. Sensors, telematics, and AI are now standard, which gives managers real-time insights into fuel use, driver behaviour and maintenance needs.

But this shift also changes how people work. Wearable tech and smart fabrics are starting to appear in uniforms. This helps to monitor fatigue, temperature, and exposure. We’re working with customers to integrate these into their PPE strategy. Because there's a lot of safety that starts with data!

Sustainable mobility

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, hybrid systems and low-emission manufacturing are all part of the sustainability push. But it’s not just the vehicles that need to be greener.

PPE is evolving and we’re seeing biodegradable materials, recycled plastics and low-impact manufacturing methods in gloves, helmets, and workwear. We offer eco-conscious workwear that supports your environmental goals without compromising on protection.

Automative Innovation2

Advanced roadside fault diagnosis

AI and machine learning are making roadside repairs faster and smarter. Vehicles can self-diagnose, and technicians get real-time data to guide fixes.

This means more mobile work and new risks. Roadside teams need lightweight, flexible gear that works with wearable tech. We’re supplying breathable hi-vis clothing, smart gloves and gear that keeps pace with the job.

Autonomous vehicles

Autonomous vehicles are here. Pilot programs are running in cities and logistics hubs, and the potential for safer, more efficient transport is huge.

But they also bring new safety challenges. Electromagnetic exposure, sensor interference and complex systems mean technicians need specialised protection. Our subject matter experts are advising clients on anti-static clothing, advanced eye protection and smart communication gear that’s ready for autonomous environments.

Automative Innovation

Tower’s safety expertise

The automotive industry is changing fast. And so is the way we protect the people working in it. At Tower Supplies, we don’t just sell PPE. We help you choose the right equipment for the job, the environment, and the future. Whether you're managing a fleet, servicing EVs or preparing for autonomous systems, our team is here to guide you.

Lee Hooper2 TOWER21
Lee Hooper
Automotive Safety Expert and Business Development Manager
Share Article