Why U.S. car owners consider their cars “part of the family”

Lifestyle

by S.W.N.S.

Half of Americans consider their car to be “part of the family,” according to a new survey.

A survey of 2,000 American car owners found that 51% consider their car to be part of their family, and 53% would keep their current car forever if given the option. It became clear that there was.

For some, this is due to emotional attachment (22%), while for others they have fond memories of their current car (24%).

There are also more practical reasons why respondents want to keep their current car. Almost 6 out of 10 said it was because of the reliability the car gave them (58%), and 45% said it was because of the fuel efficiency. Available.

From a financial perspective, the majority of drivers surveyed (80%) said they would be more likely to keep their car for as long as possible if they felt it would save them money in the long run.

Others admit that they need to upgrade their car now but cannot afford it due to financial constraints (46%).

The survey, conducted by Onepoll on behalf of Meineke, examined respondents’ current feelings about cars and their preferences for future car ownership.

Despite their love for their current car, only a third (34%) of drivers surveyed said they would buy the same make and model for their next car.

However, 47% said they were looking for something different, including an electric car.

45% of Americans surveyed believe electric vehicles are the future of car ownership, and younger generations are increasingly likely to agree.

Specifically, 69% of Gen Z and 59% of Millennials surveyed believe electric cars are the future, compared to 41% of Gen X and 32% of Baby Boomers.

The results revealed that 41% of all respondents would be happy for electric vehicles to be their future vehicle choice, with younger generations once again more likely to agree (Gen Z 59% of baby boomers surveyed, compared with 56% of Millennials and 37% of Gen X and 27% of Baby Boomers surveyed).

Christopher Streel, vice president of marketing for Meineke Car Care Centers, said: “We are seeing interest in electric vehicles and a shift in car ownership trends, especially with younger generations seeing electric vehicles as the way of the future.” Masu. “With more eco-friendly transportation options available and drivers looking for something new, electric vehicles are an attractive option.”

The survey asked respondents why they would consider an electric vehicle as their next vehicle. Not having to pay for gas (35%) was his number one reason.

Following this, respondents said electric cars are good for the environment (33%) and help reduce air pollution (29%) as other top reasons for considering owning an electric car. said.

The top five reasons why respondents are likely to consider an electric vehicle in the future include access to government incentives such as tax credits (25%) and smooth and quick acceleration (17%) .

However, the survey shows that Americans still have concerns about electric vehicles, with 66% expecting higher costs of ownership and 41% expecting to spend more time in the garage for electric vehicles. I think it is necessary to spend.

That’s probably why 90% of drivers surveyed say it’s important to have a mechanic they trust.

“As the auto industry evolves and more electric vehicles are on the road, our services will change as well,” said Mike Baden, owner of Meineke of Indian Land in South Carolina. Ta. “Those who choose an electric vehicle can now drive with confidence knowing their car care needs are being met and having access to reliable vehicle maintenance.”

Why do respondents continue to drive their current car “as long as possible”?

• Reliability — 58%
• Good fuel economy — 45%
• Unable to upgrade due to financial constraints – 28%
• Fun memories with cars — 24%
• Emotional attachment — 22%

Why are respondents considering electric cars?

• No need to pay for gas — 35%
• Good for the environment – 33%
• Air pollution reduction — 29%
• Government incentives such as tax credits — 25%
• Smooth and quick acceleration — 17%
• Reducing noise pollution — 17%
• I would prioritize charging my battery over getting gas — 13%