A look at mobility: the preferences of boomers and Generation Z

In a country where automotive engineering has been synonymous with national identity, it is at least curious to observe how lGermans’ relationship with mobility is constantly evolving in terms of preferences. Publicis More, from Publicis Media, in one of its most recent studies, reveals a diverse picture.

The fidelity of boomers to the automobile

For the boomersthose born in a time of economic expansion and technological development, The car continues to be a fundamental pillar in your daily life. More than 80% of this group owns at least one vehiclereflecting an almost unbreakable relationship with the automobile. This generation has experienced the rise of the German automotive industry, and for them, the car is not only a means of transportation, but a symbol of independence and comfort.

However, This devotion contrasts with the stance of younger generations, who have grown up in a world where mobility is understood more broadly. Generation Zthose young people who practically do not know a world without the internet and smartphones, are redefining what it means to move in the 21st century. According to the study, only 59% of them own a car, a figure notably lower than that of boomers. But far from being a sign of detachment, this statistic reflects the breadth of options available to them. For Generation Z, Mobility is not limited to a vehicle owned. They seem less reluctant to consider options such as electric scootersbuses, and trains for both short and long trips.

Large cities versus rural environments: state of mobility and preferences

The study also sheds light on the differences between urban and rural life in Germany. While in large cities such as Berlin or Munich, public transport is well developed and more than 70% of residents use it regularly.In rural areas the panorama is very different. Only 21% of those who live in the countryside consider that public transport is adequatewhich forces more than 85% of rural inhabitants to depend on a car to get around.

This is where The gap between rural and urban becomes evident. While in cities, generations like Z and Y are looking for sustainable alternatives to the car, In the countryside, the lack of viable options makes the automobile a necessity rather than a choice.

The emerging role of the bicycle and shared services

Despite the omnipresence of the car, the study also highlights an interesting fact: 40% of those surveyed consider that carsharing and bikesharing services are important, both for environmental and social reasons. However, only 30% of participants ride a bicycle several days a weeka figure that surprised even the study’s researchers.

What is clear is that Germany is at a key point regarding its relationship with the mobility and preferences of its inhabitants. From work mobility subsidy programs, which are increasingly common among young people, to the sustainability policies that companies and governments are promoting, The country is headed towards a significant transformation.