1/2 of Generation Y and Z New Car Buyers Would Prefer a Self-Driving Vehicle
When asked if they “would prefer to own a vehicle that, on demand, can drive itself,” 28% of new vehicle buyers overall agree with the statement (top 2 box). Generation Z new vehicle owners are the most likely to agree (50%), followed by Generation Y (49%).
Source: AutoPacific 2019 New Vehicle Satisfaction Study
Connectivity versus Practicality
While younger generations may be more interested in autonomous vehicle technology now, their reasons likely stem from their lifelong immersion in technology and desire to remain connected, reduce commute fatigue, etc. Older generations, on the other hand, have a longer road to gaining comfort with autonomy, but ironically, may be the first to experience the benefits of full autonomy. AutoPacific believes it is likely that small geofenced areas, like retirement communities and hospital campuses, will be among the first places to launch fleets of autonomous vehicles, introducing seniors the benefits of a fully autonomous transmission before Gen Z and Gen Y.