Are Cars Still King in Germany?
Attitudes may be changing towards the much-loved method of transport
It’s no secret that Germany has always been a car-loving nation. After all, it is home to many of the world’s biggest automotive brands. But as people become more conscious of climate change and feel a greater sense of environmental responsibility – particularly younger generations – are these attitudes changing?
Owning a car is often seen as a symbol of freedom. It allows you to go where you want to go whenever you want. Not only this, for many, cars are status symbols. We’re sure you’re familiar with fancy sports-car drivers revving their engines, blasting music out in the city centre. While cars certainly aren’t going anywhere, people are starting to think twice about how necessary owning one is and what impact they have on the environment. And the driving force behind this change? Generation Z.
A different generation with a different perspective
It’s no surprise that the younger age groups see things differently. The world has changed a lot compared to when Boomers or Generation X were the new drivers on the scene. The advent of Uber, car sharing, and greater coverage by public transport has given people greater freedom without the need for their own set of wheels.
Many younger people are now opting for more sustainable options and holding off on car ownership. People more commonly share cars or rent them for a short period. Others opt for public transport, bikes, or Uber. Additionally, many younger people struggle to make ends meet, with things such as student debt and increasing house prices playing a role. All of this contributes to making owning a vehicle less appealing compared to years gone by.
Despite changing attitudes, there is no denying the practicality and, in some cases, necessity of cars as well as the automotive industry’s huge contribution to the economy – particularly in Germany. But what does this changing landscape mean for the sector in the long term?
Car manufacturers begin to play their role
It’s not just consumers who are becoming more environmentally aware. Manufacturers are committing to more sustainable production. Take Volvo for example. The company committed to manufacturing only electric vehicles from 2030. Even more luxury brands are on board, with Jaguar, perhaps surprisingly, announcing it would be switching fossil fuels for electricity in all new vehicles from 2025.
It’s highly unlikely that we’ll ever see the end of cars, as they are so vital to how our world functions. What we will see is a gradual evolution. Firstly a change in purchasing habits. People will much more likely share cars or use services that allow them to rent for a day, for example. Secondly, the type of cars we drive will change, highlighted by major manufacturers becoming greener. While the production of cars will negatively impact the environment, switching to electric will significantly reduce emissions – for both drivers and manufacturers – helping us create a more sustainable way of life.
Insurance with the next generation in mind
We understand that cars are here to stay. We also understand that attitudes are changing, and we want to accommodate this with the products we offer. With Getsafe Car insurance, you have the option of insuring up to five additional drivers at no extra costs. Why not explore our policy today?
