The younger generation in Germany is showing less interest in owning their own cars and instead prefer car-sharing and cycling. According to a study by McKinsey, this trend is likely to continue in the coming years. The study surveyed 4,000 people from Germany, France, and the UK, asking them about their future mobility preferences and current modes of transportation. The results showed a clear generational divide, with a majority of those over 45 owning their own cars, while less than half of those under 30 do.
The younger generation is more likely to use public transportation than their older counterparts, and they are also more interested in alternative modes of transportation such as bicycles and e-scooters. The study suggests that while personal vehicles will not disappear among young people, they will play a less dominant role. Even among those who still aspire to own their own cars, 50% prefer fully electric models and smaller vehicles over large SUVs.
The trend towards car-sharing and cycling is not only due to environmental concerns but also practical considerations. With the growth of urban areas in Germany, more people are getting used to using public transportation, bicycles, and e-scooters. In many urban areas, owning a car is more of a hindrance than a convenience, as most destinations are easily accessible by bus and train. The study also shows that 32% of young people are increasingly using shared mobility services such as taxis, car-sharing, and ride-hailing services like Uber and FreeNow.
These findings have implications for both producers and policymakers. Producers can see a clear trend towards electric vehicles, which can be easily combined with the preference for smaller cars. The trend towards micro-mobility is not only good news for e-scooter providers but also for bicycle producers, as the sale of e-bikes continues to break records. For policymakers, such studies provide guidance on which technologies and modes of transportation should be supported and promoted in the future. The growing use of buses and trains underscores the need to expand these transportation networks both locally and nationally.
