Major AC manufacturers from Japan (Daikin), South Korea (LG), and China (Midea) are ramping up production and launching new heat-pump models targeting European markets in 2026–2027, driven by record heatwaves that have transformed air conditioning from luxury to necessity. Germany alone saw H1 2026 heat-pump sales jump 40%, with AC sales forecast to spike 80%+ as previously cool regions (UK, Scandinavia, Poland, Benelux) now demand cooling. Smart, energy-efficient systems that integrate with home energy management are key competitive differentiators.