With the Technology Trends Report it publishes each year, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) analyses in detail the major developments and directions in the global innovation ecosystem. The 2025 Technology Trends Report puts the technological transformations in the transport sector under the microscope, examining in particular the effects that sustainability- and digitalisation-focused innovations create in the sector.
Today's transport sector is undergoing a significant transformation along two fundamental megatrends: environmental sustainability and digital integration. The report evaluates this transformation under three main headings:
1) Sustainable Propulsion Systems and Alternative Fuels
Decarbonising the transport sector requires the use of environmentally friendly energy sources in place of fossil fuels. While the development of electric vehicles continues rapidly, solid-state batteries in particular stand out among battery technologies. With their high energy density and long lifespan, these batteries offer a solution to the range and safety problems of electric vehicles. In maritime transport, ammonia-based fuels play an important role in reducing the carbon footprint of shipping. In aviation, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) stand out as an innovative and effective solution for reducing fossil fuel use.
These technologies offer significant opportunities in terms of patent applications and trademark registrations. Particularly in battery technologies and alternative fuels, intellectual property rights provide companies with a competitive advantage and strengthen the innovation ecosystem.
2) Digitalisation and Intelligent Transport Systems
Connected and autonomous transport systems, linked to the development of digital technologies, aim to reduce traffic accidents and make journeys safer and more efficient. 5G infrastructure and V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) technologies optimise transport by enabling vehicles to communicate seamlessly with their surroundings and with one another. In addition, satellite communication systems supported by blockchain technology increase data security, especially in space transport.
Logistics and infrastructure solutions in smart cities facilitate the management of urban traffic and contribute to the formation of sustainable cities. Supporting the innovations made in this field with intellectual property protection is of critical importance for the digital transformation strategies of companies and governments.
3) The Future of Transport in 2030 and Beyond
Towards 2030, in line with global net-zero emission targets, the transport sector stands on the threshold of a radical transformation. Autonomous freight systems, green hydrogen-based energy networks and the spread of ultra-fast transport technologies such as the hyperloop are expected. In addition, more economical, sustainable and accessible solutions are being developed in space transport through additive manufacturing technologies.
The patent and design registrations to be made in these innovative fields in particular will play a central role in companies' long-term strategies. For this reason, companies and countries need to manage their sustainability- and digitalisation-based intellectual property strategies proactively.
The Critical Role of Intellectual Property in the Innovation Ecosystem
WIPO's 2025 Technology Trends Report emphasises that protecting innovations in the transport sector with intellectual property rights will accelerate the global spread of these innovations. Patents, trademarks and design rights enable the commercialisation of sustainable transport solutions and become decisive in the global competitive environment. Strengthening the intellectual property strategies of countries and companies is vital for the development of more efficient, environmentally friendly and digitally connected transport systems in the coming period.
As Normpatent, we closely follow these important trends shaping the sector's transformation and continue to offer our clients strategic intellectual property consultancy accordingly. You can contact us for support in protecting and managing technology and innovation.