The UK government is currently undergoing a three-year study into the widespread introduction of self-driving (autonomous) vehicles. As we all take a cautious look into the future, it has become clear that young drivers want to stay up to date with the latest developments in automotive engineering and technology.
In a recent survey carried out by Marmalade, a provider of insurance for young people, around 44% of 17-24 years old respondents stated that the latest in-car technology would influence their decisions, when purchasing a vehicle. By comparison, just 31% of those aged 25+ are likely to be motivated by these features.
‘Generation Z’, as they are known, have grown up as digital natives and place trust in technology on a daily basis, from sat-navs to mobile banking. Research carried out by Autotrader concurred that 54% of them would be happy to use an entirely self-driving car. A twitter poll from Marmalade revealed that just 6% of over-25s, or ‘digital immigrants’, are willing to put complete trust in driving assist features.
Technology is leading the future of the motor industry and it is especially relevant to young drivers, who are likely to see many advancements in coming years. Unlike previous generations that were driven by price and convenience, Generation Z finds that experiences are highly valuable. Autotrader revealed additionally that 67% of young people value the experience of test driving a vehicle and view car showrooms as ‘experience centres’. The in-car experience is also appreciated by young drivers with 67% of those surveyed by Marmalade thinking that an entertainment system is very important.
The latest infotainment systems and virtual cockpits offer a seamless transition from Generation Z’s actively connected lives, with 25% admitting to using a mobile device within five minutes of waking-up. Stricter laws on mobile-phone usage see young drivers looking to their vehicles for safer alternatives to remain connected while driving.
According to a major Volkswagen franchise, a spokesman said: “Being connected is key for young drivers and we see that Bluetooth connectivity is the most requested feature among young drivers. Customers aged 17-24 are often interested in cars with affordable yet innovative technology. The new Volkswagen Polo, or Up Beats are great examples, offering cutting-edge sound systems as standard, with additional extras such as the Discover navigation system and active information displays that are highly desirable.”
Of course, GDPR will have a profound effect on the availability of information and privacy invasions are also a clear portent of the future that the recent questioning of Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook’s CEO) has highlighted. However, opinions need to be coloured with the facts that very few young drivers can afford many of today’s new and connected vehicles, as most of the more advanced features are included on high-priced models alone.
