Future brief: Wire & Cable
Use the links below to explore this Future Brief and discover related products.
The hidden infrastructure that is changing everything
- 1Cables that can withstand extreme conditions
- 2Regulatory compliance in wires and cables
- 3Polymers for IoT: enabling smart systems with high-performance cable materials
- 4Sustainable solutions for the wire and cable industry: bio-based and recyclable cable systems
Discover how polymers for IoT and thin wall cable materials are enabling high-speed, reliable, and compact cables for smart systems, EVs, 5G, and industrial automation.
The future of connectivity is smart, fast, and compact. As IoT, electric vehicles (EVs), automation, and 5G networks expand, the wire and cable industry must deliver solutions that integrate seamlessly into smart systems. By 2035, billions of devices will be interconnected, requiring cables that ensure data integrity, signal speed, and long-term reliability all in smaller, lighter designs.
Why cable design must evolve for smart systems
Modern smart systems present unique challenges:
- Miniaturisation: Devices and components are shrinking, requiring thin-wall insulation without compromising safety or performance.
- High-speed connectivity: IoT and automation require low-loss, high-frequency signal transmission.
- Reliability: EVs, robotics, and industrial IoT demand durable cables that withstand heat, vibration, and continuous movement.
Advanced polymers for IoT provide lightweight, high-performance insulation and jacketing solutions that meet these needs.
How IoT and smart technologies are changing cable requirements
The surge in connected devices, EV infrastructure, and smart factories drives new cable demands:
- Higher bandwidth needs: Fibre optics and PTFE-based insulation support fast, reliable data transmission.
- Smaller designs: Thin-wall cable materials reduce weight and fit compact spaces in EVs and electronics.
- Enhanced durability: Cables must withstand bending, vibration, and temperature fluctuations without failure.
Manufacturers who combine high-speed performance with miniaturisation and durability will lead in the evolving smart systems market.
Cable materials and applications for smart systems
| Cable Type | Use Case | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber Optic Cables | 5G, IoT, data centers | High-speed, low-loss signal |
| Thin-Wall Automotive Cables | EVs, ADAS systems | Lightweight, space-saving |
| Sensor & Connector Cables | Smart homes, industrial IoT | Precision-molded, failure-proof |
| Flat Ribbon Cables | Consumer electronics, robotics | Compact, flexible layout |
Practical steps for manufacturers
- Adopt thin-wall insulation technology for compact, efficient cable designs.
- Use high-frequency polymers (PTFE, PE) to ensure signal integrity.
- Leverage PBT for robust connectors and sensors in IoT and automation.
- Design for future scalability, accommodating growing data and energy needs.
How can we support you?
Our Advanced Materials team, specialised in the wire & cable market provides in-depth technical support and material selection guidance across a wide range of applications. We can also provide regulatory expertise to comply with global and regional regulations and trend analysis to navigate this rapidly evolving market.
Reach out to your local representative to discuss your needs.
Next article
Sustainable solutions for the wire and cable industry: bio-based and recyclable cable systems