Study: Drivers age 18-25 willing to pay more for cutting-edge cars

Automobiles are now so much more than a rolling stack of metal and plastic that gets people from A to B. Similar to computers and smartphones, they have become hubs of connectivity. Many automakers are currently developing advanced infotainment systems, but are consumers really interested?

The answer is yes, particularly among those aged 18 to 25.

Photo: Ford Focus 2012/Mathieu St-Pierre

A recent study by German researchers at the University of Applied Sciences in Bergisch Gladbach, titled ''iCar: Young Generations and the Networked Car'', paints a clearer picture of the various elements car companies should focus on in order to stand out from the competition and meet the needs of tomorrow's drivers.

Highlights:

• More than half of young adults surveyed said they want to listen to music and download files directly from their car's radio.
  
• More than 30 percent of drivers from the 18-25 group want to be able to send e-mails while driving (using voice command, for instance) and stay in touch with their family and friends through social media.
  
• More than 40 percent would like to communicate over the Internet (using programs such as Skype) while behind the wheel.
  
• Adding these gadgets will force automakers to invest more money in new technology, which will inevitably mean more expensive vehicles for consumers. Those aged 18 to 25 realize that, but they also said in the survey that they are willing to pay the price, which might surprise many.

Looks like the topic of driver distractions will remain hot for years to come!


_{Source: University of Applied Sciences in Bergisch Gladbach}