The Future of the Automobile for Generation Z
The Cetelem Observatory 2025 report highlights the relationship between young people under 30 and automobiles. This study, conducted in 14 countries, examines the evolution of their perception and use of cars, particularly in the face of current challenges such as the emergence of electric vehicles. Contrary to popular belief, young people are not so detached from cars and still attach crucial importance to them.
Portrait of the Young Driver
Enthusiasm for the Driving License
The report shows that the majority of young people, 85% of them, obtain their driving license before the age of 25. In the United States and Italy, over 50% of young people obtain their license by the age of 18. Conversely, in China, many obtain their license after 25.
Age of obtaining a driving license
The desire to acquire a car is often a logical consequence of obtaining a license, with a particularly strong enthusiasm among young Americans who buy their first vehicle before the age of 20.
A First Used Car
Young people predominantly prefer buying used vehicles. In France, 68% of those under 30 opt for second-hand cars. Chinese youth, however, almost exclusively choose new cars (92%).
Acquisition of a new or used car
Barriers to Car Purchase
Cost as the main obstacle
The high price is perceived as the main barrier to buying a car, especially for young drivers. 59% of young people surveyed stated that the costs associated with buying and maintaining a car were a major obstacle.
Main reasons for not buying a car
The Place of Electric Cars
Although electric cars are gaining popularity, young people remain reluctant to make the switch. The main barriers identified are the difficulty of recharging and the range of electric vehicles. However, it is interesting to note that young people now place electric cars before diesel, a sign that the trend could evolve rapidly.
Choice of engine type for a future purchase
Perceived Benefits of Driving
The pleasure of driving
Despite the constraints, driving remains a source of pleasure for the majority of young people. 70% of those under 30 say they enjoy driving. This feeling is particularly strong among young Chinese and Turkish drivers, while Japanese people are less enthusiastic about it.
The pleasure of driving by age group
The Improvement of the Automobile's Image
One of the most surprising findings of this study is that the image of the automobile has improved for nearly 50% of young people surveyed. This contrasts with the received wisdom that today's youth are increasingly indifferent to cars. This change is particularly visible in urban areas where hybrid and electric vehicles are gaining ground.
Evolution of the automobile's image
The Automobile and the Future
A Life Without a Car: Unimaginable for Young People
For 60% of young people, living without a car is unimaginable. While this figure has decreased since 2011, it remains high, especially among young people living in rural areas where cars are essential for daily travel.
Can we live without a car?
The Electric Future
Young people are more optimistic about the future of the automobile, especially in its electric version. 47% of them believe that cars will play a more important role in society in 30 years. This perspective is accompanied by the conviction that electric cars will one day replace internal combustion engines.
The car's place in the future
Conclusion
In conclusion, the results of the Cetelem Observatory 2025 show that cars remain a central element in the lives of young people under 30. Despite financial and environmental challenges, they continue to see cars as a symbol of freedom and technological progress. As electric cars gain popularity, young people remain attached to automobiles and are not ready to see them disappear from their daily lives.
Gen Z article image: Photo by Andre Sebastian