Cars, EVs especially, will have an even stronger presence tomorrow

THE FUTURE IS AUTOMOTIVE

The idea of a future powered by a strong electric current makes young people feel particularly optimistic about the evolving role of cars. In 2011, 29% of young people surveyed felt that cars would play a more important role in society in 30 years’ time, while 45% believed that their status would remain unchanged. In the space of 13 years, there has been a dramatic shift, with the two scores having been more or less reversed. 47% expect cars to play a more important role and the score for this item has risen in every country (33% think its status will be identical). This enthusiasm is all the more striking when compared with the more measured responses of seniors. Indeed, the older generation are most likely to state that the status quo will be maintained (the proportion who believe that cars will play more or less of a role is 30%, in both cases) (Fig. 25).

THE REIGN OF ELECTRIC CARS IS NIGH

Naturally, if cars are to take on an even more important role in society, they will rely on electric motors to propel them into the future. On this issue, young people once again appear to have stronger convictions than seniors. 6 out of 10 believe that EVs will replace combustion-powered cars, while half of the older generation are of this opinion. These results should make brands feel more confident in their decision to go headlong down this road (Fig. 26).

KEY DATA

1 in 2 young people believe cars are the main cause of global warming

1 in 2 believe that current restrictions are sufficient

1 in 2 believe that EVs are more eco-friendly than combustion powered cars

1 in 2 believe cars will play a greater role in 30 years’ time

6 out of 10 can see electric cars replacing their combustion-powered equivalents
in the future